On March 14, NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore concluded a nine-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Originally intended to last just ten days, the mission was extended due to technical problems with Boeing’s Starliner, which had issues like helium leaks and propulsion failures. Consequently, NASA decided to return the spacecraft to Earth without its crew while their safety was ensured.
Living in space isn’t like being stuck in an airport terminal; it poses significant health risks. The effects of microgravity on the human body can be severe. Astronauts experience more than double the g-force during launch, which Dr. Sandy Magnus describes as feeling like “having a 70-pound gorilla sitting on your chest.” After launch, in microgravity, astronauts float, but this absence of gravity impacts their bodies in many ways.
Astronauts report changes like worsening eyesight, skin issues, and even feeling strange when wearing clothes due to a lack of normal pressure from gravity. Dr. Afshin Beheshti from the University of Pittsburgh explains that space accelerates various health issues. It doesn’t mean astronauts age faster, but their bodies show signs of aging-related problems, like cardiovascular risks and cognitive challenges, much quicker than they would on Earth.
As of now, Williams and Wilmore have spent nine months in space, a feat achieved by only eight other astronauts. NASA astronaut Frank Rubio holds the record with 371 days in orbit. The effects of such an extended stay can be significant, and it will take time for them to readjust to life on Earth.
“When we get back, even lifting a pencil will feel heavy,” Wilmore noted. This is because gravity plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density. In space, the bones and muscles weaken without regular mechanical stress. On average, astronauts can lose about 1% of bone density for each month spent in microgravity.
Despite daily exercises meant to combat this loss, they will still face challenges upon returning. A 45-day recovery program awaits them, designed to help restore their health and fitness. According to NASA’s Lead Flight Surgeon Dr. Stevan Gilmore, this regimen typically returns most astronauts to their pre-mission state.
In contrast, after spending a year in space, Scott Kelly faced considerable challenges, including relearning how to walk. His experience highlights that recovery can take time. Some studies show that astronauts can experience slower cognitive processing speeds while in space but usually return to normal afterwards. Dr. Chris Mason noted that variations exist in how different astronauts react; some may perform better in space due to increased focus, while others may struggle.
Space also exposes astronauts to higher levels of radiation than on Earth. A week in orbit can equal a year’s worth of radiation exposure on the ground. This can affect cellular functions and increase risks for issues like heart disease and cancer. Recent studies show that spaceflight can change the structure of chromosomes, highlighting the need for research focused on the long-term health of astronauts.
Scientists are continuously exploring ways to mitigate the negative effects of space travel. Some research focuses on small molecules that could enhance radiation resistance, while others investigate “artificial hibernation” techniques to protect against radiation damage. These advancements could benefit not only astronauts but also patients receiving radiation therapies on Earth.
As commercial space travel grows, addressing these health risks is essential for the future of human space exploration. Williams and Wilmore are prepared for their recovery, but after months in space, they have formed a bond with the environment. Surprisingly, they expressed a sense of reluctance about leaving orbit. “I think both of us will be a little bit sad when that feeling of space leaves us,” Williams said.
The incredible resilience of humans and the challenges of space travel underscore the complexities of our quest to explore beyond our own planet.
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