NASA astronauts return to Earth after first-ever medical evacuation

Four astronauts splashed down near San Diego after an early departure from the ISS that NASA said was ordered because of a 'serious' medical condition, and all were taken to hospital for observation.

Four astronauts returned to Earth following an early departure from the International Space Station. NASA announced the return was ordered because of a 'serious' medical condition affecting a crew member but did not identify who was unwell. The crew landed in a SpaceX capsule that splashed down in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego less than 11 hours after leaving the station. The mission began in August and the station was left temporarily staffed by three astronauts. Known details: - Four astronauts returned to Earth in what NASA described as its first-ever medical evacuation. - The SpaceX capsule splashed down in the Pacific near San Diego less than 11 hours after departing the ISS. - NASA said the early return was ordered because of a "serious" medical condition and has not identified which crew member was affected. - All crew members were taken to a local hospital for overnight observation; officials reported the unwell crew member is in good spirits and undergoing routine medical checks. Summary: The early return prompted an unprecedented medical evacuation and left the space station with a reduced crew. NASA and SpaceX said they are working to move up the launch of a replacement crew, which is currently scheduled for mid-February. Undetermined at this time is the full operational impact on station activities.