ISS Crew Told to Prepare Evacuation as Air Leak Worsens in Russian Segment

NASA confirmed Thursday that a Russian crew member is working to contain a worsening air leak aboard the International Space Station, some 250 miles above Earth, as astronauts stand ready to evacuate.

NASA has directed International Space Station crew to prepare for a possible emergency evacuation.
A Russian crew member is actively attempting repairs on a worsening air leak in the station's Russian segment.
The ISS orbits approximately 250 miles above Earth and has housed continuous human occupation since 2000.
NASA has not yet declared a full emergency but confirmed the situation is being actively monitored.
No crew injuries have been reported at this stage.

Astronauts aboard the International Space Station have been told to prepare for a possible evacuation after a worsening air leak was detected in the station's Russian segment, NASA confirmed Thursday.

A Russian crew member is attempting to locate and seal the leak, according to NASA. The agency has not declared a full emergency but said the situation is being closely monitored from the ground.

The ISS orbits roughly 250 miles above Earth and has maintained continuous human occupation since November 2000. Air leaks in the station's Russian-built modules have been reported and managed on previous occasions, though NASA described the current deterioration as a concern requiring immediate crew action.

No crew injuries have been reported. The number of astronauts currently aboard and the specific module affected had not been fully confirmed by press time.

NASA is expected to provide a public update as the situation develops. Agency flight controllers at Johnson Space Center in Houston are in active contact with the crew.