7 Alarming Changes: NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore have returned home after an unexpected nine-month stay in space. Their health is now under scrutiny as they face a range of issues, including “baby feet,” weakened bones, and vision problems due to prolonged exposure to microgravity.
Why Were the Astronauts Stuck in Space?
Williams and Wilmore arrived at the International Space Station (ISS) in June and were expected to stay for a week. However, due to technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner capsule—specifically thruster problems and helium leaks—they remained in orbit for 286 days.
Astronauts Return Home After 286 Days in Space
On March 18, the astronauts splashed down safely in a SpaceX Dragon capsule off the coast of Tallahassee, Florida. Following the splashdown, both astronauts were flown to Houston, Texas, for a comprehensive medical evaluation at NASA’s Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center.
What Health Problems Do Astronauts Face After Space Missions?
Prolonged exposure to microgravity affects nearly every part of the human body. Here are the most common health problems astronauts experience:
1. “Baby Feet” Syndrome
Without the pressure of walking, astronauts’ feet become soft and lose their protective callouses. This condition, known as “baby feet,” can make standing and walking uncomfortable when they return to Earth. NASA astronaut Scott Kelly once described how a masseuse was surprised by how soft his feet had become.
2. Bone and Muscle Loss
Microgravity reduces the load on bones and muscles, causing both to weaken. According to NASA, astronauts lose about 1% of their bone density per month, especially in the legs, hips, and spine. To counteract this, astronauts exercise daily in space. However, upon their return, they still experience weakness and require weeks of supervised rehabilitation.
Former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson described the return to Earth as a “big shock” to the body, requiring extensive physical therapy to restore muscle strength.
3. Immune System Suppression
Astronauts’ immune systems weaken in space due to reduced exposure to Earth’s microbial environment. This immunosuppression was first observed during the Apollo missions and remains a significant health risk. Dr. Mark Rosenberg of the Medical University of South Carolina explained that astronauts must rebuild their immune defences when they return.
4. Height Changes and Back Pain
In microgravity, the spine elongates, making astronauts taller. While in space, NASA astronaut Scott Kelly grew by two inches. Upon returning to Earth, the spine compresses again, often causing significant back pain.
Former astronaut Frank Rubio, who spent 371 days on the ISS, reported experiencing lower back pain due to the sudden return to Earth’s gravity.
5. Vision Problems
Astronauts often experience changes in their eyesight, a condition known as Spaceflight Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS). This occurs because bodily fluids shift upwards in microgravity, putting pressure on the eyes. Symptoms include:
- Blurry vision
- Optic nerve swelling
- Retinal folds
NASA continues to study SANS due to its potential long-term impact on astronauts’ vision.
6. Heart Shape and Function Changes
Microgravity causes the heart to become more spherical and less efficient. This change increases the risk of heart rhythm problems, such as atrial fibrillation. Studies of heart muscle tissues sent to the ISS showed weakened tissue and disrupted rhythms.
7. Skin Sensitivity and Rashes
After prolonged space missions, astronauts may develop skin sensitivity and rashes. Researchers documented a case where an astronaut developed a skin rash after spending 340 days in space. The symptoms lasted for six days and were treated with hydrotherapy and medication.
How NASA Monitors Astronaut Health Post-Mission
NASA conducts rigorous medical evaluations to monitor astronauts’ recovery. These tests assess cardiovascular health, vision, neurological function, and immune response. Astronauts are required to remain in quarantine for observation before resuming normal activities.
Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of Space on the Human Body
Astronauts like Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore undergo profound physiological changes during extended space missions. With ongoing research, NASA aims to better understand these effects and improve future space travel safety. Their health journey on Earth is far from over, as they continue to adapt to life back under Earth’s gravity.
