NASA and SpaceX Crew-12 to Share Insights on Space Station Mission and Anticipated Return

NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 team is gearing up for their imminent launch to the International Space Station (ISS) on 13th February 2026, as they don their flight suits at the Neil A. Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building, located at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crew comprises Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev, NASA astronauts Jack Hathaway and Jessica Meir, along with Sophie Adenot, an astronaut from the European Space Agency (ESA).

Upcoming News Conference with Crew-12 Astronauts

A news conference featuring the Crew-12 astronauts is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 16th September, at 2:45 p.m. EDT. The event, which will be streamed live from the International Space Station, will provide an opportunity for the astronauts to share insights regarding their forthcoming return to Earth. Interested viewers can access the live coverage via NASA’s official website.

Media representatives wishing to participate must reach out to the NASA newsroom at the Johnson Space Center in Houston by no later than 5 p.m. on Tuesday, 15th September, through the contact number 281-483-5111 or via email at jsccommu@mail.nasa.gov. To pose questions during the conference, media personnel should join the call no later than ten minutes before it commences. Full details regarding NASA’s media accreditation policy can be found online.

Contributions to Scientific Research and Human Exploration

Crew-12 has been an integral part of the Expedition 74/75 crew aboard the ISS, contributing to numerous scientific experiments aimed at facilitating human exploration beyond low Earth orbit while also benefiting life on Earth. Their research projects have included investigations into bacteria that cause pneumonia, with the aim of enhancing cardiovascular treatments, the development of on-demand intravenous fluid generation for future space missions, and studies on how physical characteristics may influence blood circulation during space travel.

As they prepare to return, Crew-12 will depart the space station following the arrival of Crew-13 and a brief handover period. Prior to their departure, mission teams will assess weather conditions at the designated splashdown sites off the coast of California to ensure a safe return.

Advancements Through Continuous Space Research

For over 25 years, the International Space Station has served as a platform for continuous human habitation and scientific advancement, enabling researchers to achieve breakthroughs that are unattainable on Earth. The ISS plays a crucial role in helping NASA comprehend and address the challenges associated with human spaceflight, while also expanding commercial opportunities in low Earth orbit. Furthermore, it lays the groundwork for prolonged missions to the Moon, as part of the Artemis programme, and eventually to Mars.

For further information about the International Space Station, its ongoing research, and the crew, please visit NASA’s website dedicated to the ISS.