Six physical health issues astronauts face after returning to Earth exposed.
NASA astronauts Sunita “Suni” Williams and Barry “Butch” Wilmore are back on Earth after an unexpected nine-month stay on the International Space Station (ISS).
Original mission explained.
Their original mission was supposed to last just eight days, but mechanical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft kept them in orbit far longer than planned.
Williams and Wilmore’s journey began on June 5, 2024, aboard Boeing’s Starliner Calypso spacecraft.
Their mission’s purpose was initially brief, but technical failures forced an unexpected delay.
The spacecraft’s thrusters malfunctioned, preventing a safe return.
As a result, NASA extended their stay, requiring them to adapt to life aboard the ISS for an extended period.
During this time, they participated in scientific research while maintaining a strict fitness routine to reduce health risks.
Astronauts’ return mission profiled.
After months of waiting, SpaceX’s Dragon capsule was prepared to finally bring them home.
On March 18, 2025, the spacecraft undocked from the ISS and began its journey back to Earth.
The astronauts splashed down off the Florida coast later that evening.
This extended mission has sparked concern about the potential impact on their physical health.
Astronauts’ potential health issues unveiled.
Experts warn that long-term exposure to microgravity can severely affect the body, leading to muscle loss, weakened bones, and potential vision issues.
Astronauts often experience cognitive effects like mental fog, attention lapses, and memory struggles after spending extended periods in space.
Radiation exposure is another serious concern, as astronauts face nearly 100 times the radiation levels experienced on Earth, raising cancer risks.
Returning astronauts typically undergo weeks of rehabilitation to rebuild strength and regain balance.
Muscle deterioration during extended time in microgravity requires intensive physical therapy.
Loss of bone density is another major concern, with astronauts potentially losing up to 1.5% of their bone mass each month they spend in space.
This puts returning astronauts at greater risk of fractures as their bodies readjust to Earth’s gravity.
Vision problems are another common side effect, with fluid shifts in the body causing pressure behind the eyes, sometimes affecting eyesight.
Astronauts may also experience immune system changes, making them more vulnerable to illness in the weeks following their return.
Prolonged stress during their mission can also lead to mental health struggles like anxiety, mood swings, and fatigue.
Williams and Wilmore will face a comprehensive medical evaluation and months of rehabilitation to address these risks.
NASA’s medical team will closely monitor their recovery to ensure any long-term effects are managed.
In addition to physical challenges, psychological struggles are common among astronauts who spend lengthy periods in space.
Feelings of isolation, confinement, and disconnection from loved ones are known risks for astronauts on extended missions.
Post-mission programs designed to help astronauts reintegrate mentally and emotionally will play a crucial role in their recovery.
Future of space missions debated.
Williams and Wilmore’s ordeal has shed light on the challenges facing future deep-space missions, such as those planned for Mars exploration.
NASA continues to develop countermeasures to minimize these risks for astronauts embarking on future long-term missions.
The lessons learned from their unexpected extended stay on the ISS will provide invaluable insights for space exploration going forward.
As humanity ventures further into space, ensuring the physical and mental well-being of astronauts will remain a top priority.
Williams and Wilmore’s resilience has demonstrated the extreme challenges astronauts face in space.
Their return home marks the end of a challenging mission that will provide vital data for future space travel.