UPDATE: Three astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) are set to return to Earth on December 8, 2025, after completing a critical 245-day research mission. NASA astronaut Jonny Kim and Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky will undock from the ISS at 8:41 p.m. EDT and land in Kazakhstan just hours later at 12:04 a.m. on December 9.
In a busy and impactful day of research, the crew prioritized vital blood studies, essential for astronaut health in long-duration space missions. As they prepare for reentry, the team practiced critical operations inside the Soyuz MS-27 spacecraft, ensuring they are ready to handle the forces of Earth’s gravity upon return.
During their time aboard the ISS, Ryzhikov and Zubritsky tested an innovative suit designed to counteract fluid shifts caused by microgravity. This technology aims to reduce pressure in the head and eyes, helping astronauts adjust back to Earth’s conditions more comfortably. Such advancements could significantly improve the well-being of future space travelers.
Meanwhile, NASA Flight Engineers Zena Cardman and Chris Williams conducted a detailed examination of their cardiovascular health using the Ultrasound 2 device. This research is part of the ongoing CIPHER human study, which monitors astronaut health before, during, and after missions, providing critical data to ensure long-term space travel is safe.
As they prepare for their return, Mike Fincke and Kimiya Yui guided Williams through the intricacies of life aboard the ISS, ensuring he is well-versed in station operations. Williams joined the ISS on November 27 and has been absorbing essential knowledge from his experienced colleagues.
The day also included examinations by Ryzhikov and Zubritsky on how microgravity impacts blood circulation in their extremities, utilizing advanced medical equipment to gather data on their microcirculatory systems. This research is crucial for understanding the physical effects of prolonged space travel.
Additionally, Roscosmos Flight Engineer Oleg Platonov focused on inventory management and life support maintenance, ensuring the station’s operational efficiency during this busy research period.
NASA will broadcast the crew’s return live on NASA+, Amazon Prime, and their YouTube channel, allowing viewers to witness this significant moment in space exploration.
Stay tuned for updates as the crew concludes their historic mission and returns safely to Earth. Follow the latest developments on the ISS through the space station blog and social media channels.
