Astronauts welcome replacements with laughter as alien mask prank unfolds
- Crew-9 has been stationed on the ISS for nine months after their mission was unexpectedly extended due to spacecraft issues.
- Nick Hague entertained crew members and online viewers by wearing an alien mask during the docking of Crew-10.
- This humorous interaction underscores the importance of morale and camaraderie among astronauts during challenging space missions.
On March 16, 2025, the International Space Station (ISS) witnessed a comedic moment as Crew-9 commander Nick Hague donned an alien mask while welcoming new astronauts. This playful gesture occurred shortly after a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule successfully docked with the ISS, bringing four new members aboard to replace the exiting crew. Hague, along with fellow astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, had been unexpectedly stranded in space for nine months due to complications with their original spacecraft. Originally slated for an eight-day mission, their return was delayed after their spacecraft encountered serious issues, necessitating NASA's decision to send a new crew to ensure a safe transition and facilitate their return home to Earth. Such humor was appreciated not only by those in space but also echoed through social media, delighting fans and followers of the space program. The arrival of Crew-10 enabled Crew-9 to finally prepare for their long-awaited return, with plans set for a potential splashdown in the ocean off Florida's coast in the upcoming days. Moreover, the situation not only highlights the challenges of space travel but also shows the resilience and camaraderie among astronauts, who can maintain a light-hearted spirit amidst adversity. As the story continues to unfold, it emphasizes the technical difficulties faced by space missions and the importance of proper readiness to prevent extended stays in space for astronauts.