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Astronaut Mike Fincke, one of the crew members sent to space as part of the Crew-11 mission carried out in cooperation between NASA and SpaceX, had returned to Earth following a medical issue.

A message shared by NASA astronaut Mike Fincke was posted on NASA’s social media account.

Fincke stated that on January 7, while on duty aboard the International Space Station, he experienced a medical condition that required the immediate response of his fellow crew members. Thanks to their swift action and the guidance of NASA flight surgeons, his condition stabilized in a short time.

Fincke explained that after further evaluations, NASA decided that the safest option for Crew-11 was an early return. He emphasized that this was not an emergency, but a carefully coordinated plan to take advantage of advanced medical imaging capabilities not available on the space station, and said:

“On January 15, after an incredible five-and-a-half-month mission, we splashed down off the coast of San Diego. I am deeply grateful to my Expedition 74 crewmates, as well as the entire NASA team, SpaceX, and the healthcare workers at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla near San Diego. Their professionalism and dedication ensured a positive outcome.”

Fincke stated that he is feeling very well, adding, “Spaceflight is an incredible privilege and sometimes it reminds us how human we are. Thank you all for your support.”