Swift Emergency Return: SpaceX Capsule's Urgent Splashdown

A SpaceX capsule returned four astronauts to Earth due to a serious undisclosed medical condition affecting one of the crew. The early return marks NASA's first mission cut short for health reasons. The Crew Dragon splashed down near San Diego, concluding a 167-day mission from the ISS.

A SpaceX capsule carrying four astronauts returned urgently to Earth due to a serious unknown medical condition affecting one crew member. The capsule, named Endeavour, safely landed in the Pacific Ocean off California early Wednesday, following a 10-plus-hour descent from the ISS.

This early return marks NASA's first decision to cut short an ISS mission for a health emergency. The Crew Dragon capsule deployed parachutes to slow its descent, eventually landing at 12:45 a.m. EST, as part of the agency's ongoing partnership with SpaceX.

NASA has not disclosed which astronaut required urgent medical attention. However, Endeavour's commander Zena Cardman, and her fellow crew members expressed relief at their return. Their mission, which began in August, was originally planned for a longer stay aboard the International Space Station.

(With inputs from agencies.)