NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have spent nearly nine months in space, are finally set to return to Earth. According to NASA’s schedule, they are expected to land by 6 pm on March 18. While their return marks a significant milestone, their prolonged stay in space has exposed them to several physiological changes. Spending extended time in space takes a serious toll on the human body, and Williams and Wilmore will face several health challenges as they readjust to life on Earth.

From weaker muscles and fragile bones to dizziness and even "baby feet," their return will come with a tough recovery period. So, what exactly happens to the body after a long stay in space, and how do astronauts overcome these challenges?

What Health Challenges Do Astronauts Face After a Long Space Mission?

1. ‘Baby Feet’ Syndrome

One of the lesser-known but significant post-space health challenges is the condition known as ‘baby feet.’ This phenomenon makes walking extremely uncomfortable for astronauts upon their return to Earth.

Why Does This Happen? In space, astronauts float instead of walking, which means their feet are not subjected to the usual pressure and friction they experience on Earth. Over time, the thick calluses on the soles of their feet, which protect against daily wear and tear, begin to soften and peel off. This results in sensitive and smooth soles, much like those of a baby.

Dr Akhilesh Yadav, Associate Director of Orthopedics and Joint Replacement at Max Hospital Vaishali, explains, “In microgravity, astronauts don’t walk, so their soles do not develop thickened skin. Upon return, their feet become extremely delicate, making walking painful.”

Dr Robert Hagan, a NASA-affiliated space medicine specialist, states, “Astronauts returning from prolonged space missions often struggle with walking and standing. The absence of friction and weight-bearing activities causes their foot skin to lose its toughness, which makes re-adaptation challenging.”

How Long Does Recovery Take? Recovery varies, but it typically takes several weeks to a few months for astronauts’ feet to regain their toughness. Physical therapy, including walking on different surfaces and rehabilitation exercises, helps accelerate the process.

Dr Yadav explains, “Regular weight-bearing activities and exercise on solid ground aid in rebuilding the skin’s resilience, reducing discomfort.”

2. Bone Density and Muscle Loss

One of the most significant challenges astronauts face after prolonged space travel is the loss of bone density and muscle mass due to the absence of gravity. According to NASA, astronauts can lose up to 1 per cent of their bone density per month in space, making their bones weaker and more brittle.

How Does It Happen? In microgravity, the body stops producing bone tissue at its normal rate. Cells that break down bone continue functioning, while those responsible for rebuilding slow down. Over time, this imbalance leads to osteoporosis-like symptoms, increasing the risk of fractures.

Dr Jennifer Fogarty, a former chief scientist at NASA’s Human Research Program, warns, “The longer astronauts stay in space, the harder it is for their bones to recover. They must undergo months of rehabilitation, including resistance training and calcium supplementation, to regain bone strength.”

Similarly, muscle atrophy occurs due to reduced use of muscles in microgravity. Even with daily exercise, astronauts experience significant muscle loss and must follow an intensive rehabilitation program upon their return.

3. Cardiovascular and Brain Health Issues

Long-duration space missions also affect the cardiovascular system and brain function. Without Earth’s gravity, bodily fluids shift toward the head, increasing cranial pressure and affecting vision and brain health. NASA has identified a disorder called Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS), which causes swelling in the optic nerve, leading to vision problems.

Dr Mark Shelhamer, a spaceflight physiology expert at Johns Hopkins University, explains, “Astronauts returning from space often experience dizziness, vision impairment, and even cognitive dysfunction. The redistribution of fluids in space can have long-term consequences.”

The heart changes. In space, it becomes more spherical, and prolonged exposure to microgravity weakens the heart muscles. Upon returning to Earth, the sudden shift in blood volume can cause dizziness, nausea, and fainting spells.

Dr Shelhamer adds, “Astronauts must be monitored closely for cardiovascular irregularities. Some may need medication or physical therapy to recover fully.”

4. Radiation Exposure and Long-Term Health Risks

Astronauts in space are exposed to high levels of cosmic radiation, which significantly increases the risk of cancer, degenerative diseases, and neurological disorders. Unlike Earth, where the atmosphere acts as a protective shield, space travellers face direct exposure to harmful radiation.

Dr Francis Cucinotta, a radiation expert at the University of Nevada, states, “Radiation exposure in space can damage DNA and increase the likelihood of developing cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Long-term monitoring and preventive strategies are essential for returning astronauts.”

How Can Astronauts Recover Faster?

While space agencies like NASA have developed strategies to counteract these challenges, astronauts must follow strict rehabilitation protocols post-mission. Some measures include:

As Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore prepare to land, medical experts will closely monitor their recovery, ensuring they regain full health after their historic mission. Their journey highlights the incredible resilience of astronauts and the complexities of space travel’s impact on human physiology.

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