First Space Force Guardian returns from ISS mission

U.S. Space Force Colonel Nick Hague has returned to Earth after more than five months aboard the International Space Station (ISS). He splashed down on March 18, 2025, in the SpaceX Crew-9 Dragon capsule, alongside two fellow NASA astronauts and one Russian cosmonaut. Hague made history as the first Space Force Guardian to launch into space. His mission began on September 28, 2024, when the Crew-9 capsule lifted off from Florida. "I never would have imagined that I was going to be the first Guardian to launch into space," Hague said after his return. He expressed pride in representing all Guardians in the effort to explore space. During his time on the ISS, Hague participated in over 150 scientific experiments. His work focused on blood clotting, vision changes in space, and plant growth in microgravity. These studies may help prepare for future missions, including those to Mars. "The ongoing research aboard the space station can and has improved life for everyone back on Earth," he noted. Hague also contributed to maintenance on the ISS. He performed a six-hour spacewalk in January 2025 to replace a station component and service important research instruments. He brought several items with him to space, including music for the Space Force song, mission patches, and mementos for service members and scientists. Upon his return, Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman welcomed Hague home and congratulated him on his successful return from the ISS. The Space Force looks forward to using Hague's experiences and expertise in future endeavors.