NASA Conducts First Medical Evacuation From ISS After Crew-11 Returns

NASA shortened the Crew-11 mission after a medical issue affected one astronaut, resulting in the first medical evacuation in the agency’s human spaceflight history.

The Crew-11 spacecraft undocked from the International Space Station on January 14, 2026, carrying four astronauts back to Earth. The capsule splashed down in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego less than 11 hours after leaving the station.

NASA stated that the medical situation was precautionary and not considered an emergency. The agency did not release the identity of the affected astronaut or provide details about the medical condition.

As a result of the medical situation, a planned spacewalk was canceled. The incident prompted NASA to adjust its schedule for crew activities aboard the station.

What the numbers show

• Four astronauts returned to Earth on January 15, 2026
• The capsule spent less than 11 hours traveling from the ISS to splashdown
• Crew-12 is scheduled to launch in mid-February 2026

This is the first time in approximately 65 years of NASA’s human spaceflight program that a mission has ended early due to medical reasons. Previous missions had not required an early return for health-related concerns.

The early return of Crew-11 leaves the station temporarily below its usual staffing level. NASA has scheduled the launch of Crew-12 for mid-February 2026 to restore full crew capacity on the ISS.

The agency has not disclosed further information about the medical condition or the astronaut involved. NASA emphasized that the decision to return was made out of caution and not in response to an immediate emergency.

With the Crew-11 mission concluded, preparations are underway for the next crew rotation. NASA continues to monitor the health of all astronauts and adjust mission plans as needed to maintain safety on the ISS.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.