US-Russian Crew Begins Eight-Month Mission on ISS

A three-member US-Russian crew began an eight-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS) following a launch from Kazakhstan on 27 November.

The Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft lifted off at 2:27 pm from Russia’s Baikonur Cosmodrome, carrying NASA astronaut Chris Williams and Russian cosmonauts Sergei Mikaev and Sergei Kud-Sverchkov. The spacecraft successfully docked with the ISS at 5:34 pm.

This mission marks the first spaceflight for Williams, a physicist, and Mikaev, a military pilot, while Kud-Sverchkov is on his second mission. They will join the current ISS crew: NASA astronauts Mike Fincke, Zena Cardman, and Jonny Kim; Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Kimiya Yui; and Russian cosmonauts Sergei Ryzhikov, Alexei Zubritsky, and Oleg Platonov.

Williams will lead scientific research and technology demonstrations aimed at advancing human space exploration and producing benefits on Earth.

Roscosmos reported Thursday evening that the new crew was “in good health” following the launch. A routine inspection of the launch pad at Baikonur revealed damage to several components, but officials confirmed that all necessary spare parts are on hand and repairs are expected to be completed soon.

The mission highlights ongoing US-Russian collaboration in space exploration despite broader geopolitical tensions and underscores the continued role of the ISS as a platform for scientific research and international cooperation.