NASA Astronaut Frank Rubio Reflects on Unexpected Year-Long ISS Mission

NASA astronaut Frank Rubio reflects on his unexpected 1-year stay on the International Space Station (ISS) after a spacecraft fault doubled his planned 6-month mission. Rubio used the extra time to assess his performance and improve his efficiency in space. He considers himself "incredibly lucky" to have been able to implement lessons learned immediately. Rubio's extended stay was due to a leak in his Russian Soyuz spacecraft, which was later found to be damaged by a micrometeoroid strike. He and his crewmates safely returned to Earth in a replacement craft. Rubio also commented on recent coolant leaks on the ISS and expressed confidence in mission controllers' efforts to ensure crew safety. Despite the challenges, Rubio found support from his community and managed to find humor in the loss of a dwarf tomato during his time on the ISS.