After an extraordinary nine months in space, astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams were finally returned to Earth on Tuesday, March 18.
Originally, they arrived at the International Space Station (ISS) in June 2024 with plans to complete their mission and return home after just eight days. However, a series of unexpected challenges altered those plans, leaving Wilmore and Williams on the ISS for an extended period.
When they were eventually rescued and brought back to Earth aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, they were transported on stretchers before they could take their first steps on solid ground.
Naturally, coming back after such a lengthy time in space requires some adjustment to life on Earth. Reports indicate that Wilmore and Williams may encounter various health issues.
In addition to breathing regular oxygen again, the astronauts are also re-experiencing gravity on their bodies for the first time in nine months. They will have to deal with conditions like weakened muscles and bones, often referred to as ‘chicken legs’ and ‘baby feet,’ along with an elevated risk of cancer, according to the Daily Mail.
Their initial period of returning home to Earth will naturally involve a variety of tests conducted at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. However, some experts have raised concerns about potential health issues indicated by certain warning signs.
Considering the extended duration of their unexpected stay on the ISS, it’s not surprising that Wilmore and Williams have undergone noticeable physical changes before coming back to Earth. Observers have noted that the two appeared thin, seemingly having lost a significant amount of weight over the last nine months.
While this weight loss is expected, there are other, possibly more alarming health considerations to take into account, according to experts.
For instance, some have pointed out that Wilmore and Williams are experiencing fluid accumulation in their heads, which is putting pressure on their eyes and optical nerves. This condition, known as Spaceflight Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS), may impact their appearance.
Most astronauts experience a return to normal vision after coming back to Earth, but NASA indicates that some effects of Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS) may be lasting. This is particularly concerning for Wilmore and Williams, as their extended time in space could increase the likelihood of these permanent changes.
Additionally, the microgravity environment plays a significant role. Without the pull of Earth’s gravity, astronauts can experience muscle atrophy, which can make it challenging for them to keep a healthy weight, ultimately impacting their appearance. This is one reason they were transported on stretchers after landing.
Lastly, there’s the issue of Spaceflight Venous Thrombosis (SVT), which causes fluid to shift upward, resulting in a puffy appearance in astronauts’ faces.
What are your thoughts on Wilmore and Williams’ looks upon their return to Earth this week? Share your opinions in the comments!