NASA astronaut Mike Fincke, hailing from the Pittsburgh area, revealed on Wednesday that he required medical assistance during SpaceX Crew-11’s mission, which led to an early return in January.
In a statement on NASA’s website, Fincke shared that on January 7, he experienced “a medical event that required immediate attention” while stationed on the International Space Station (ISS). He expressed his appreciation for his crewmates, crediting them for their quick actions and the support from NASA’s flight surgeons, which helped stabilize his condition rapidly.
NASA assessed the situation and concluded the safest option was to bring the crew back earlier than planned. Fincke clarified, “It wasn’t an emergency; rather, it was a well-coordinated plan to use advanced medical imaging that the space station couldn’t provide.”
The crew successfully splashed down on January 15, off the coast of San Diego, after an incredible five-and-a-half-month mission. Fincke, a graduate of Sewickley Academy, became an astronaut in 1996.
He expressed gratitude towards his fellow Expedition 74 members and the entire team at NASA. He especially thanked the medical staff at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, emphasizing, “Their professionalism and dedication ensured a positive outcome.”
Currently, he is undergoing standard post-flight reconditioning at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. Reflecting on his experience, he stated, “Spaceflight is a remarkable privilege, reminding us of our humanity. I appreciate the support from everyone.”
Fincke’s return highlights the rigor of space missions and the importance of swift medical responses in extreme environments. With recent studies showing that over a quarter of astronauts face health issues during missions, Fincke’s experience underscores the need for robust medical protocols in space travel.
As exploration continues, it’s essential to blend space science with medical expertise, ensuring the well-being of astronauts in this challenging field. For a deeper look at astronaut health during missions, you can explore the NASA Astronaut Health Research.
