NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are coming back to Earth following an unexpected nine-month stay in space. Originally scheduled for just one week aboard Boeing’s Starliner capsule on a mission to the International Space Station in June 2024, their return was delayed due to issues with the spacecraft. The extended mission highlighted the challenges of prolonged space travel on human physiology and psychology.
During their time in microgravity, Wilmore and Williams experienced changes such as muscle mass loss and bone density reduction. Without Earth’s gravity, bones can lose mineral density at a significant rate, posing risks to astronauts’ health. Additionally, the shift in bodily fluids in microgravity can lead to issues like kidney stones and eye-brain structural changes.
Space radiation is another concern for astronauts, as they are exposed to higher levels of radiation beyond Earth’s protective magnetosphere. Prolonged exposure to space radiation can increase the risk of radiation sickness, cancer, and other health problems. Despite protective measures, astronauts on the ISS receive substantial radiation doses during their missions.
Upon returning to Earth, astronauts undergo medical assessments to readapt to gravity and address any physical challenges they may face. The experiences of Wilmore and Williams shed light on the complexities and risks associated with long-term space travel, emphasizing the importance of understanding and mitigating the effects of space exploration on human health.
Dr. Okhari, who serves as the acting chief scientific officer at Baylor College of Medicine’s Translational Research Institute for Space Health, explained to ABC News that astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) experience higher radiation exposure due to passing through areas of trapped radiation in their orbit. While this exposure is not expected to immediately impact their health, prolonged exposure could potentially increase the risk of cancer.
In addition to radiation concerns, astronauts face physical and psychological challenges from isolation in space. NASA carefully selects and trains crew members for ISS missions lasting six months or longer to ensure their ability to cope with these challenges. Research has shown that extended periods in a confined environment can lead to behavioral changes, fatigue, stress, and sleep disturbances.
To mitigate the negative effects of isolation, NASA is exploring methods such as virtual reality for relaxation and engaging activities like language learning or tending a space garden. Dr. Jennifer Fogarty, also from Baylor College of Medicine’s Translational Research Institute for Space Health, emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy environment to support astronauts’ immune systems, which can be impacted by chronic stress.
As two NASA astronauts return home after a 9-month stay on the ISS, their journey highlights the complex health impacts of long-duration space missions.
