NASA will host SpaceX Crew-11 astronauts Zena Cardman, Mike Fincke, and Kimiya Yui on June 1 at its Washington headquarters, where they will share experiences from their 167-day mission aboard the International Space Station.
Crew-11 Mission Covered Nearly 71 Million Miles Around Earth
The SpaceX Crew-11 mission launched on August 1, 2025, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida and arrived at the International Space Station a day later aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. The crew included NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, JAXA astronaut Kimiya Yui, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov.
During their 167-day mission, the astronauts traveled nearly 71 million miles and completed more than 2,670 orbits around Earth. Their journey concluded on January 15 with a successful splashdown off the coast of San Diego, California.
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The mission marked the first spaceflight for Cardman and Platonov, the second for Yui, and the fourth for Fincke. As part of International Space Station Expeditions 73 and 74, the crew carried out scientific research and operational activities that support future human space exploration. Fincke also increased his career total to 549 days in space, ranking among NASA’s most experienced astronauts.
Scientific Research and Historic Milestones Aboard the Space Station
Scientific research was a key part of the SpaceX Crew-11 mission. During their 167-day stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS), the astronauts conducted hundreds of hours of experiments in areas such as biology, physical sciences, technology development, and human health. These studies help scientists better understand how people, materials, and technologies perform in the unique environment of space.
The microgravity conditions aboard the ISS allow researchers to carry out investigations that are difficult or impossible on Earth. Findings from these experiments can support advancements in medicine, manufacturing, agriculture, and other fields that benefit everyday life. The mission also included technology demonstrations aimed at supporting future human exploration missions beyond low-Earth orbit.
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In addition to research activities, the Crew-11 astronauts were responsible for routine maintenance and upgrades to station systems. Ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the orbiting laboratory is an essential part of life aboard the ISS and helps keep scientific work running smoothly.
A significant milestone during the mission came on November 2, 2025, when astronauts celebrated 25 years of continuous human presence aboard the International Space Station. The anniversary highlighted decades of international cooperation in space. Through their scientific work, operational duties, and collaboration with international partners, the Crew-11 astronauts contributed to the station’s long-standing mission of advancing research and exploration.
NASA Headquarters Event Will Highlight Astronaut Experiences
The June 1 event will give the public an opportunity to hear directly from astronauts who recently completed the SpaceX Crew-11 mission. NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, along with JAXA astronaut Kimiya Yui, will discuss life aboard the International Space Station, the challenges of living in microgravity, and the scientific work carried out during their 167 days in orbit.
NASA expects the discussion to highlight the crew’s experiences, research activities, and daily responsibilities aboard the orbiting laboratory. The event is part of the agency’s efforts to engage the public and share insights into human spaceflight missions.
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The appearance is being held as part of NASA’s Frontiers Forum: Voices Shaping the Future of Space series, which brings together leaders and innovators involved in advancing space exploration and technology. The initiative focuses on priorities such as the Artemis program, commercial partnerships, workforce development, and technological innovation.
The event follows Crew-11’s successful return to Earth after a mission that combined scientific research, station operations, and international cooperation. Through their work aboard the International Space Station, the astronauts contributed to ongoing efforts to expand scientific knowledge and support future exploration goals.
