NASA evacuates ISS crew due to astronaut's health condition: first case in 25 years.

According to Korrespondent.net: Nasa is conducting a medical evacuation of astronauts for the first time in 25 years of International Space Station operations due to health problems of one of the crew members.

On January 7, the agency announced the postponement of a planned spacewalk. It later turned out that this was due to a medical incident on board the space laboratory.

NASA explained that doctors identified a prolonged risk to the astronaut's life, as it is impossible to establish an exact diagnosis and provide necessary treatment in space. As a result, a decision was made to prematurely conclude the mission and return the crew to Earth.

The name of the patient and the nature of his illness are not disclosed due to medical confidentiality requirements.

Return of the Crew

All four crew members of the SpaceX capsule, who arrived at the ISS in August 2025, will return to Earth:

• Zen Cardman (USA) - Crew Commander
• Mike Fincke (USA)
• Kimia Yui (Japan)
• Oleg Platonov (Russia)

Although medical assistance is only required for one astronaut, the entire crew is subject to evacuation. This is due to safety regulations that require the number of people on the station not to exceed the number of seats in the docked ships.

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman emphasized that even if there were a doctor on board the ISS, the agency would insist on returning the astronaut to Earth, as comprehensive treatment is only possible under ground conditions.

This is the first case of premature termination of a mission at the ISS due to health problems since it was populated in 2000. However, three astronauts from another expedition will remain on the station.

It is important to note that this situation highlights the challenges faced by space missions. Despite the availability of high technologies, the health of astronauts always remains a priority. NASA will continue to monitor and support the crew to ensure their safety and well-being.