Two cosmonauts and a NASA astronaut are preparing to return to Earth after completing a yearlong mission on the International Space Station. Sergei Prokopyev, Dmitri Petelin, and Frank Rubio were originally scheduled to spend six months in orbit, but had to stay longer to accommodate a replacement Soyuz spacecraft. The crew is set to undock from the space station and land in Kazakhstan on Wednesday morning.
Two cosmonauts and NASA astronaut prepare for return to Earth
The outgoing space station commander, Sergei Prokopyev, along with co-pilot Dmitri Petelin and NASA astronaut Frank Rubio, are getting ready to return to Earth after spending a year in orbit. Originally planned for a six-month mission, the crew had to extend their stay due to a coolant leak on their Soyuz spacecraft. They will undock from the space station and land in Kazakhstan on Wednesday morning.
Challenges and dedication in space
Despite the unexpected extension, the crew has shown resilience, professionalism, and grace in the face of challenges. European Space Agency astronaut Andreas Mogensen commended them for their competence, dedication, and hard work in keeping the space station in good condition. The departing crew members have set the stage for the next expedition, leaving the station ready for success.
Photo Credit: nasa.gov
