Stranded NASA Astronauts Exhibit Health Issues During SpaceX Return Mission
NASA Astronauts Set for Homecoming After 9-Month ISS Ordeal
(Include images: 1) Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore in space; 2) "Gaunt" photo of Williams; 3) Astronauts exercising on the ISS; 4) SpaceX Dragon capsule splashdown)
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams, 59, and Barry Wilmore, 62, are finally returning to Earth after a grueling nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS)—far longer than their planned eight-day mission. Their extended stay, caused by technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, subjected them to extreme health risks, including muscle atrophy, bone loss, and heightened cancer risk from space radiation.
Health Toll of Prolonged Spaceflight
The pair will need stretchers upon landing in Florida due to severe physical deconditioning. Doctors warn they may require up to six weeks of rehabilitation to regain strength. “They’ll need guided exercise and nutritional plans immediately,” said Dr. Vinay Gupta, a pulmonologist and Air Force veteran. He also emphasized increased cancer screening due to radiation exposure—equivalent to one year on Earth per week in space.
Weight Loss Controversy
Concerns spiked in November when photos of a gaunt-looking Williams surfaced. Experts noted her sunken cheeks, suggesting significant calorie deficit despite astronauts needing 3,500 daily calories. Williams countered claims, attributing her appearance to “fluid shift” in microgravity and claiming muscle gain. However, NASA insiders revealed both astronauts faced monitored weight loss, with Wilmore dropping mass from his initial 210-pound frame.
(Image: Side-by-side photos of Williams pre-mission and during her stay)
Physical Breakdown in Microgravity
Extended microgravity exposure leads to rapid muscle loss (up to 20% in five days) and bone density decline (1-1.5% monthly). Biomedical engineer Dr. John Jaquish warned the duo risks fractures and osteoporosis, requiring stretcher assistance post-landing. “Their bodies break down without Earth’s gravity,” he noted, stressing that ISS exercise gear can’t fully counteract these effects.
Rehabilitation Roadmap
NASA’s 45-day rehab program includes:
- Phase 1: Regain walking ability, flexibility, and muscle strength.
- Phase 2: Cardio reconditioning and proprioceptive exercises to improve balance.
- Phase 3: Intensive training to restore pre-mission fitness.
Recovery could take months or years, with bone density potentially never fully recovering. Osteogenic loading—exercises bearing 4.2 times body weight—is critical but challenging.
Mental Health Challenges
Psychiatrist Dr. Carole Lieberman highlighted hidden “resentment or anger” from prolonged isolation and mission uncertainty. NASA maintains both astronauts are healthy, with flight surgeons monitoring them closely.
(Image: Astronauts undergoing post-mission rehab exercises)
As Williams and Wilmore prepare for Earth’s gravity, their journey underscores the harsh reality of long-duration spaceflight and the resilience required to survive it.
