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The successful return of SpaceX Crew 11 on January 15, 2026, underscores the need for reliable space rescue capabilities as the space economy grows. Following a medical emergency aboard the ISS, the crew was safely evacuated, marking a significant achievement in space rescue.

However, experts warn that current capabilities are insufficient for commercial missions beyond low Earth orbit (LEO). Future space missions will face various emergencies, necessitating pre-planned rescue strategies. The complexities of international agreements, technical readiness, and funding models must be addressed to develop a robust space rescue infrastructure that can effectively support human safety in space.