ISS Commander Jessica Meir Hands Over Command, Returns to Earth

The Cliff News | 5 October 2026

International Space Station (ISS) commander Jessica Meir officially handed over leadership of the orbital laboratory to Roscosmos cosmonaut Pyotr Dubrov on Sunday, marking a significant transition as her Crew-12 mission prepares for its return to Earth. The ceremonial transfer of the ISS key occurred ahead of Meir's departure on October 7, 2026.

Meir, who assumed command on July 25 this year, conveyed a bittersweet sentiment about her extended stay, which lasted longer than initially planned. The handover was live-streamed by NASA+, showcasing the seamless collaboration between international space agencies.

Command Handover and Expedition Transition

The handover ceremony highlighted the ongoing overlap of crews on the ISS, with 11 spacefarers currently onboard. This period includes members of Crew-12 and the recently arrived Crew-13, who, along with the crew of the Soyuz MS-29, will form the core of Expedition 75.

Crew-12 was originally part of Expedition 74. The departure of the three-person Soyuz MS-28 in July 2026 signified the transition to Expedition 75. In this dynamic personnel shift, Meir's experience proved invaluable as new arrivals were officially handed over mission responsibilities.

Meir's Leadership and Reflections

Reflecting on her role as commander, Meir shared that it was not a position she had initially aspired to but came to deeply appreciate. She cited the importance of fostering camaraderie among the crew and embracing an "expedition mentality" to successfully complete missions.

“The main thing that I saw was that he had struck this camaraderie between the crew.”

Meir emphasized the collaborative spirit aboard the ISS, where everyone works as one team with a unified mission. Her tenure as commander allowed her to understand the responsibility of guiding and supporting crew members, especially those new to spaceflight.

Meir's Accomplishments and Legacy

Jessica Meir is set to return to Earth as the woman with the third-highest number of spacewalks, a distinction placing her among legendary astronauts like Peggy Whitson and Sunita Williams. During her current mission, she participated in four spacewalks, including a recent extravehicular activity to repair the Canadarm2 robotic arm.

Her previous mission, from 2019 to 2020, saw her take part in the historic first all-female spacewalk alongside Christina Koch. Beyond her spacewalk achievements, Meir's background in biology significantly contributed to advancements in biomedical research and biotechnologies aboard the station.

Dubrov Takes the Helm

Cosmonaut Pyotr Dubrov, who brings prior experience from his 2021-2022 mission on Soyuz MS-18, expressed his honor in assuming command of the ISS. He also took the opportunity to commemorate the 69th anniversary of Sputnik 1, the first satellite launched into space.

“It’s the greatest symbol of what we can do if we work together; (it) is the greatest symbol of international cooperation, and to be commander of this crew, I think it’s the best position [in the] world.”

Dubrov acknowledged the significant learning curve involved in commanding such a diverse and experienced crew but expressed his commitment to doing his best. He extended his gratitude to all the individuals and organizations supporting the ISS missions.

Operational Preparations for Return

As Crew-12 prepares for their journey home, critical preparations are underway. Members have been meticulously reviewing emergency roles and responsibilities, transferring essential safety gear, and loading cargo into the SpaceX Dragon capsule.

The team has also conducted thorough checks of their pressure suits and is configuring the systems of their ride home, ensuring all procedures are in place for a safe and successful return to Earth. This meticulous process underscores the complex nature of space missions and the dedication of the astronauts involved.