Usachev, Voss and Helms, having completed 156 days on Alpha, now become members of the space shuttle crew.

CNN: newcrew

Usachev could have an easier time recovering, having spent two long-duration missions on the retired Russian space station Mir.

CNN: Alpha astronauts: Trip to Mars is doable

They are expected to live on Alpha until December, replacing Russian cosmonaut Yury Usachev and U.S. astronauts Jim Voss and Susan Helms.

CNN: newcrew

The new ISS crew, referred to as Expedition Two, includes two Americans, Susan Helms and James Voss, and their Russian commander Yury Usachev.

BBC: Discovery docks with space station

Usachev has experience dealing with the consequences of a long-term stay in space, having spent two long-duration missions on the retired Russian space station Mir.

CNN: Discovery brings home Alpha crew

"Compared to my previous flight, it's much better, " Usachev said.

CNN: Discovery brings home Alpha crew