NASA SpaceX Crew-12 returns to Earth with Pacific splashdown after nearly 8 months

Splashdown confirmed in the Pacific Ocean

Four astronauts have safely returned to Earth after completing an extended mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), splashing down in the Pacific Ocean on Tuesday.

Mission Overview

• Crew: Four astronauts (NASA's SpaceX Crew-12)
• Duration: Nearly eight months in space
• Splashdown Time: 11:34 a.m. EDT
• Location: Pacific Ocean

Key Highlights

• The SpaceX Dragon capsule executed a picture-perfect splashdown, concluding the crew's long-duration stay on the ISS.
• The mission, designated Crew-12, was operated by NASA in partnership with SpaceX.
• The crew's return marks the end of an eight-month science and maintenance mission aboard the orbiting laboratory.

Coverage

Multiple news outlets reported on the successful return, including:

• Space.com – "Splashdown! Crew-12 astronauts return to Earth after nearly 8 months in space (video)"
• NBC News – "Four astronauts return to Earth after eight months in space"
• NASA (.gov) – "NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 Dragon Splashes Down at 11:34 a.m. EDT"
• CBS News – "Space station crew closes out 8-month mission with picture-perfect Pacific Ocean splashdown"
• Bloomberg.com – "SpaceX Crew Capsule Splashes Down in Pacific After ISS Stay"

The astronauts are expected to undergo standard post-flight medical checks and reunite with their families following the successful landing.