UPDATE: Three astronauts from Expedition 73 are set to return to Earth on December 8, 2025, after an extensive 245-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). NASA astronaut Jonny Kim and Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky will undock from the ISS at 8:41 p.m. EDT, marking the end of their groundbreaking research in space.
As the crew prepares for their descent, vital blood research took center stage on the ISS today, focusing on astronaut health during long-term missions in microgravity. The trio’s return is more than just a personal milestone; it carries implications for future space exploration and human health in space.
Upon undocking from the Prichal module aboard the Soyuz MS-27 spacecraft, the astronauts will make a swift journey back to Earth, with landing scheduled in Kazakhstan at 12:04 a.m. EDT on December 9. NASA’s live coverage of their return will be available on NASA+, Amazon Prime, and the agency’s YouTube channel, providing real-time updates and insights.
In preparation for their return, the astronauts practiced crucial operations to ensure a safe reentry, including techniques to manage the effects of Earth’s gravitational pull. Ryzhikov and Zubritsky tested a specialized suit designed to counteract fluid shifts in space, potentially reducing head and eye pressure for astronauts. This innovative approach could significantly improve the adjustment process for future space travelers.
Meanwhile, NASA Flight Engineers Zena Cardman and Chris Williams conducted important health assessments using advanced technology. They scanned their veins with the Ultrasound 2 device and measured blood pressure, contributing to the long-term CIPHER human research investigation that monitors cardiovascular health in astronauts before, during, and after missions.
The crew’s efforts are critical not only for their own health but also for the ongoing mission to enhance the safety and well-being of future astronauts. As they prepare for their return, the team is reflecting on their experiences and the groundbreaking research conducted during their time in orbit.
In the meantime, Flight Engineers Mike Fincke of NASA and Kimiya Yui of JAXA are guiding new astronaut Chris Williams, who arrived at the ISS on November 27, through the intricacies of station operations. As part of the Expedition 73 crew, they continue to explore how microgravity affects the human body, including blood circulation in extremities.
WHAT’S NEXT: As the Expedition 73 crew members finalize their preparations for reentry, the space community is eagerly awaiting their safe return. Their experiences and findings will contribute to the broader understanding of human health in space, paving the way for future missions to the Moon and Mars.
Stay tuned for live updates and more information on their journey. Follow the ISS updates on social media platforms, including @space_station on X, and check out the ISS Facebook and Instagram accounts for further insights into life aboard the International Space Station.
