Health Impacts of Microgravity
Astronauts Barry "Butch" Wilmore and experienced significant physical changes during their nine-month stay in space, including muscle atrophy, bone density loss, and altered vision due to microgravity effects.
and scientists are studying the short and long-term health impacts of these changes, with most effects expected to reverse after returning to Earth, though some, like vision changes, may persist.
Space Mission Challenges and Recovery
The astronauts faced additional challenges such as fluid redistribution causing a puffy appearance and "chicken legs," alongside the psychological and physical toll of isolation in space.
Upon their return, Wilmore and Williams will undergo thorough medical evaluations and a reconditioning program to help their bodies readjust to Earth's gravity, a process that includes exercise to counteract muscle and bone loss.