Michael Fincke

Built World

As of May 2026: Returned to Earth after medical evacuation in January 2026

The International Space Station's original solar arrays were designed to last 15 years. The oldest set has now been in orbit for 25, battered by radiation and micrometeorite strikes until the station's total power output dropped from 240 kilowatts to roughly 160 — a one-third loss. On March 18, 2026, astronauts Jessica Meir and Chris Williams stepped outside for a 6.5-hour spacewalk to prepare the final two power channels for new roll-out solar arrays that will restore the station's capacity.

Updated May 30

Force in Play

As of May 2026: Returned to Earth

NASA evacuated one crew member from the International Space Station on January 14, 2026, for a serious but stable medical condition. The SpaceX Crew Dragon carried four astronauts home six weeks early, splashing down safely off California on January 15 after 167 days in space. This ended a 25-year streak without a medical evacuation, despite predictions of one every three years.

Updated May 21