NASA's Crew Departure Leaves ISS Understaffed Amid Health Concerns

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AI Summary
Four astronauts are set to leave the International Space Station (ISS) early due to a health issue affecting one crew member, leaving only three astronauts behind. The SpaceX Crew capsule is scheduled to undock at 5 p.m. ET on Wednesday, with a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean expected around 3:40 a.m. ET Thursday. NASA emphasizes the importance of maintaining a fully staffed ISS for ongoing research, but the current situation poses challenges, such as the inability to conduct planned spacewalks. A replacement crew, Crew-12, is being expedited for launch, originally planned for mid-February, to restore full staffing on the ISS.
Key Details: • SpaceX Crew capsule undocking at 5 p.m. ET Wednesday. • Splashdown in the Pacific Ocean expected at 3:40 a.m. ET Thursday. • Replacement crew, Crew-12, being expedited for mid-February launch.