Four astronauts depart international space station in return flight home

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another routine return from orbit—it’s a sign of how space travel is evolving. With a mix of government veterans and private-sector collaboration (thanks to Axiom), missions like this are becoming more international and accessible. It’s a small step toward a future where space isn’t just for astronauts in government programs but for a broader range of explorers. Plus, seeing a retired NASA astronaut like Whitson back in action? Pretty cool proof that experience in space still counts for a lot.