Roscosmos is about to bring the longest ISS-staying NASA astronaut, Vande Hei, back to Earth. This is a relief since many issues recently appeared because of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Once Mark T. Vande Hei returns to the planet, he will hold the title for the longest American spaceflight. After he leaves the International Space Station, his stay there will total 355 days.
He arrived at the ISS back on April 9, 2021. Because of this, he was not able to attend their family gatherings and other bonding activities. But, he will soon meet his family once he returns to Earth.
Roscosmos To Bring Back Vande Hei! Where To Watch?
According to Mashable's latest report, Vande Hei is expected to return to Earth on Wednesday, Mar. 30, at exactly 6:15 a.m. ET.
Also Read : Roscosmos Leaving ISS? Here's What Will Happen to the Space Station-And It's Not a Good One
He will ride Roscosmos' Soyuz rocket. For those who are interested in watching his landing, they can visit NASA Gov's official website.
On this page, you will see all the upcoming space activities of the international space union. When it comes to Vande Hei's return, NASA said that the livestream would start at around 11:30 p.m. ET on Mar. 29.
On the other hand, Bill Nelson, the current NASA Administrator, said that the return of the American astronaut is now ensured.
"The professional relationship between the astronauts and cosmonauts onboard the station, as well as the professional relationship between mission control in both Houston and Moscow, continues unaltered," added Nelson.
Two Cosmonauts Will Accompany Vande Hei
Aside from the NASA astronaut, two cosmonauts, Anton Shkaplerov and Pyotr Dubrov, will join Vande Hei as he returns to Earth.
The upcoming space mission is expected to show that the relationship between Roscosmos and NASA is still in a peaceful state and will continue to be in the forthcoming years.
Recently, many issues arose because of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Roscosmos' head, Dmitry Rogozin, even threatened the U.S. that they have the option to de-orbit the International Space Station.
Of course, this didn't happen. Right now, Roscosmos and NASA are still working together to explore the mysteries of the universe further.
Last month, Roscosmos warned that the U.S. sanctions could affect the current ISS cooperation.
After a few days, Elon Musk decided to join in, saying that he would save the ISS for possible de-orbiting using SpaceX.
For more news updates about Vande Hei's return and other related space topics, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.
Related Article : Russia Calms Roscosmos ISS Abandonment Rumors-Saying US Astronaut Will Return To Earth as Scheduled
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Written by: Griffin Davis