The astronaut, whose identity remains confidential, was part of the crew of four who left the ISS aboard a capsule SpaceX. The mission, initially planned for a shorter duration, was extended due to several setbacks: problems with the Starliner capsule of Boeing and weather disruptions linked to Hurricane Milton delayed their return by almost two months. These unforeseen events forced the crew to remain in orbit until September, with their return finally being planned for October.
A soft landing but a worrying health check
After successful atmospheric re-entry and water landing off the coast of Florida, the crew was taken for routine medical examinations aboard the recovery vessel. But very quickly, the astronaut in question presented a “medical problem” which required an immediate transfer to a hospital in Pensacolain Florida. Although NASA assured him that he is in stable condition, he remains hospitalized as a precaution.
The impact of weightlessness: a challenge for astronauts
Long missions in space pose real physical challenges for astronauts. After several months in weightlessness, it is common to encounter difficulties adapting to Earth’s gravity, particularly in terms of disorientation, muscle loss and bone weakening. Although NASA did not disclose the exact nature of the astronaut’s medical concerns, this type of complication is common for crews returning from long missions.
The crew returned safe and sound… except one
The astronaut in question is the only member of the crew to remain in the hospital. The other three members returned to Johnson Space Center from NASA to Houston, where they will resume their rehabilitation. The new arrivals aboard the ISS, sent by SpaceX and Starliner, will ensure the continuity of the missions until their return scheduled for February.
While mystery hangs over the details of this incident, it highlights the health risks inherent in long-duration space missions and the physical challenge that returning to Earth represents for astronauts.
