Astronauts Wilmore and Williams Face 45-Day rehab After Extended Spaceflight: Understanding the Long-term Health Risks of Space Travel
Table of Contents
- Astronauts Wilmore and Williams Face 45-Day rehab After Extended Spaceflight: Understanding the Long-term Health Risks of Space Travel
- Squashed Eyeballs: vision Impairment in Space
- Shrinking Hearts: cardiovascular Effects of Weightlessness
- Increased Cancer Risk: The Radiation Hazard
- Brittle Bones: Bone Density Loss in Space
- Slow Brain: Cognitive Impairment After Spaceflight
- Baby Skin: Heightened Sensitivity Post-Space
- the International Space Station: A crucial Research platform
- Beyond Earth’s Embrace: Unmasking the Silent Threats to Astronaut Health in Long-Duration Space Missions
- A Symphony of Subtle Shifts: Understanding the Body in Zero Gravity
- squashed Eyeballs and Other Vision Concerns
- brittle Bones: A Silent Threat
- shrinking Hearts: Cardiovascular Challenges in Space
- Increased Cancer Risk: The Radiation Hazard
- Slow brain: Cognitive and Psychological Impact
- Heightened Sensitivity: The Phenomenon of “Baby Skin”
- Countermeasures: The Future of Astronauts on Earth and Beyond
March 26, 2025
It typically takes several years to fully recover from a standard six-month mission to the International Space Station (ISS). However,for astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams,their recent 286-day stint aboard the ISS presents a unique set of challenges and a lengthy rehabilitation process.
Credit: Getty
The pair,who returned to Earth on March 18,2025,are now embarking on a 45-day intensive rehabilitation program to address the physiological effects of their extended time in space. This rehab is crucial, as the human body undergoes meaningful changes in the microgravity surroundings, leading to potential long-term health concerns even after astronauts return home.
Squashed Eyeballs: vision Impairment in Space
One of the most common issues astronauts face is vision impairment, which can persist for up to 90 days post-flight. This phenomenon is often attributed to the shift of fluids towards the head in microgravity, which can alter the structure of the eyeball.
The increased pressure can lead to a flattening of the eyeball,affecting visual acuity. While fluid pressure is a significant factor, NASA acknowledges that it may not be the only cause of these vision changes. Research continues to explore other potential contributors, such as changes in blood flow to the optic nerve and alterations in the brain’s processing of visual information.
NASA notes that fluid pressure may not be the sole cause of vision changes.
Shrinking Hearts: cardiovascular Effects of Weightlessness
Prolonged exposure to weightlessness can also have a detrimental impact on the cardiovascular system. A study on astronaut Scott Kelly, who spent 340 days in space, revealed that his heart actually shrank during his mission. Despite engaging in approximately two hours of exercise daily, the lack of gravity resulted in a loss of heart mass and cardiac atrophy.
This phenomenon isn’t exclusive to space travel. Similar effects were observed in athlete Benoît Lecomte, who swam 2,821 kilometers over 159 days, experiencing comparable levels of weightlessness in water. These findings underscore the importance of specialized exercise regimens designed to counteract the cardiovascular effects of prolonged weightlessness, both in space and on Earth.
Increased Cancer Risk: The Radiation Hazard
Astronauts face a significantly elevated risk of cancer due to the increased radiation exposure in space. In just one week aboard the ISS, astronauts are exposed to the equivalent of one year’s worth of radiation on Earth.
NASA has warned that this heightened exposure can substantially increase the likelihood of developing cancer later in life. The exact risk depends on several factors,including the duration of the mission,solar conditions at the time,individual susceptibility to radiation,and age at the time of exposure.Shielding technologies and radiation monitoring are crucial for mitigating this risk, and ongoing research aims to develop more effective protective measures for future space missions.
Nasa has warned this can increase the risk of an astronaut developing cancer later in life.
Though the space agency notes that the risk depends on how long an astronauts mission was, the solar conditions at the time, their individual radioactivity and their age at exposure.
Brittle Bones: Bone Density Loss in Space
One of the most well-documented effects of spaceflight is bone density loss. Astronauts can lose between 1% and 2% of their bone density for every month spent in space, according to research by Canada’s University of Calgary. This is primarily due to the lack of gravity, which reduces the stress on bones that is necessary for maintaining their density.
This bone loss can lead to brittle bones, osteoporosis, and an increased risk of fractures. Kyle Zagrodzky, founder of OsteoStrong, a company specializing in osteoporosis treatment, told The sun that Wilmore and Williams could return with “the bones of an 80-year-old.” He emphasized that their ages, 61 and 58 respectively, could exacerbate the effects of bone loss, even with regular exercise. “They may have,in eight months in outer space,10 to 20 years of bone loss even with exercise,” added Zagrodzky.
Astronauts lose between 1% and 2% of bone density for every month spent in space, according to research by Canada’s University of Calgary.
This is due to the lack of gravity taking the pressure off their legs when it comes to standing and walking.
but it can lead to brittle bones, osteoporosis and fractures.
kyle Zagrodzky, founder of OsteoStrong, a company that treats osteoporosis, previously told The Sun that Wilmore and Williams’ could return with “the bones of an 80-year-old”.
He said their ages, 61 and 58 respectively, will influence them “poorly” even if they were exercising.
“They may have, in eight months in outer space, 10 to 20 years of bone loss even with exercise,” added Zagrodzky.
Slow Brain: Cognitive Impairment After Spaceflight
Cognitive function can also be affected by space travel. A study published last year revealed that astronauts may experience a temporary slowing of “cognitive performance.” The study,which analyzed 25 astronauts,found that they exhibited slower response times,reduced working memory,and decreased attention spans compared to their performance on Earth.
Importantly,some of these cognitive changes persisted even after the astronauts returned to the ground,highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and cognitive rehabilitation strategies. These findings have implications for mission planning and the development of countermeasures to mitigate cognitive decline during long-duration spaceflights.
A study published late last year found that astronauts may also experience a temporary slowing of “cognitive performance”.
After analysing 25 astronauts, scientists found they had slower response times, working memory and attention compared to when they were on Earth.
Some of these changes did not resolve until the astronauts were back on the ground.
Baby Skin: Heightened Sensitivity Post-Space
A peculiar phenomenon known as “baby skin” is commonly reported by astronauts upon their return to Earth. In the microgravity environment of space, clothing hovers slightly above the skin, leading to a heightened level of sensitivity.
this increased sensitivity makes the sensation of clothing against the skin feel abrasive, almost like sandpaper. As their bodies readjust to the constant contact with fabric on Earth, astronauts may experience discomfort and require specialized clothing or therapies to alleviate this heightened sensitivity.
So-called ‘baby skin’ is a common phenomena when astronauts return to Earth.
As astronauts float in space, the microgravity environment means their clothing hovers slightly above the skin.
It gives astronauts a heightened level of sensitivity that humans only really experience as babies.
This, in turn, also makes clothes back on Earth feel like sandpaper, as their bodies aren’t used to the near-constant contact with fabric.
the International Space Station: A crucial Research platform
The International Space Station (ISS) serves as a vital platform for conducting research on the long-term effects of spaceflight on the human body. The data collected from astronauts like Wilmore and Williams is invaluable for developing countermeasures and ensuring the health and safety of future space explorers. As NASA and other space agencies set their sights on longer-duration missions to the Moon and Mars, understanding and mitigating these health risks will be paramount.
What is the ISS?
here’s what you need to know about the International Space Station…
- The International Space Station, frequently enough abbreviated to ISS, is a large space craft that orbits Earth and houses astronauts who go up there to complete scientific missions
- Many countries worked together to build it and they work together to use it
- It is indeed made up of many pieces, which astronauts had to send up individually on rockets and put together from 1998 to 2000
- Ever as the year 2000, peopel have lived on the ISS
- Nasa uses the station to learn about living and working in space
- It is approximately 250 miles above Earth and orbits around the planet just like a satellite
- Living inside the ISS is said to be like living inside a big house with five bedrooms, two bathrooms, a gym, lots of science labs and a big bay window for viewing Earth
Beyond Earth’s Embrace: Unmasking the Silent Threats to Astronaut Health in Long-Duration Space Missions
World Today News Senior Editor: Welcome, Dr. Amelia Stone, esteemed aerospace physiologist. Recent developments with astronauts returning from extended missions have once again highlighted the profound health challenges of space travel.Is it truly possible that a trip to the stars can diminish the very essence of what makes us human?
A Symphony of Subtle Shifts: Understanding the Body in Zero Gravity
dr. Stone: Those words accurately capture the gravity of the situation, so to speak. The human body is exquisitely adapted to Earth’s surroundings. Sending humans into orbit is, at once, a testament to our engineering prowess and a high-stakes biological experiment. The stresses of spaceflight trigger a cascade of physiological shifts, from cardiovascular changes to bone density loss, with effects that can linger long after their return. It’s a truly remarkable and somewhat unsettling reminder of the delicate balance required for human thriving.
World Today News Senior Editor: Let’s dive into some of these specific health risks. The article mentions vision impairment caused by fluid shifts. Can you elaborate on the underlying mechanisms and potential long-term effects?
squashed Eyeballs and Other Vision Concerns
Dr. Stone: Absolutely. What we know is that fluid shifts are a primary player in disrupting vision in space. in microgravity, fluids no longer pool in our lower extremities as they do on Earth; instead, fluids redistribute towards the head. This increase in intracranial pressure can lead to a flattening of the eyeball, leading to conditions that vary depending on the individual astronaut.
The impact on an astronaut’s vision can span a spectrum of visual difficulties. This can include blurred vision, swelling of the optic nerve, and changes in the shape of the eye. In effect, it changes the very architecture of an astronaut’s body.
World Today News Senior Editor: That’s a significant concern. Bone density loss is an ongoing topic as well; how does spaceflight affect bone health, and what are the long-term implications?
brittle Bones: A Silent Threat
Dr. Stone: The effects of spaceflight on bone health are profound. In our earthbound world, the constant push and pull effect from gravity stimulates bone formation. In the absence of gravity, this stimulus diminishes, and bone density rapidly decreases. The article’s mention of 1% to 2% bone loss per month is a stark reminder of the speed this can occur.
The long-term ramifications of bone density loss include increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Astronauts returning from long-duration missions are often at a higher risk of sustaining bone fractures, even with seemingly minor impacts. Regrettably bone loss in space is an area where the effects can potentially linger long after their missions, making it a core consideration during mission planning.
world Today News Senior Editor: the circulatory system faces similar dangers. What is the impact on the cardiovascular system?
shrinking Hearts: Cardiovascular Challenges in Space
Dr. Stone: That is correct. The cardiovascular system in space presents a unique set of challenges. Just as with bone mass,the heart,a muscle,adapts to its environment. In the absence of gravity, there is less demand on the heart to pump blood against it. As a result, the heart muscle shrinks; and cardiovascular atrophy is a distinct possibility.
The long-term implications of heart atrophy includes increased risk of cardiac complications; which makes this a significant consideration for astronaut health. Understanding and counteracting the effects of weightlessness on the heart is vital to the long-term well-being of astronauts.
World Today News Senior Editor: Radiation exposure is a significant concern in space.Can you explain the risks and potential countermeasures?
Increased Cancer Risk: The Radiation Hazard
Dr. Stone: Absolutely. without Earth’s protective magnetic field and atmospheric shielding, astronauts face significantly higher levels of ionizing radiation in space. This exposure stems from galactic cosmic rays and solar particle events.
The increased radiation in space can damage DNA and increase the risk of cancer. The extent of that risk depends on several variables, including the duration of the mission. The need to protect astronauts from radiation is paramount, requiring a multifaceted approach.Shielding technologies are essential, but equally vital are:
- developing radiation-hardened technologies.
- Advancing personal protective equipment.
- implementing stringent radiation monitoring protocols
World Today News Senior Editor: What about the psychological and cognitive effects? Are there any long-term challenges in this area?
Slow brain: Cognitive and Psychological Impact
Dr. Stone: The article is correct in highlighting that cognitive function can change during space travel. Studies have shown that astronauts may experience slowed response times and diminished working memory. While some of these changes are temporary,it’s imperative to understand that cognitive impairments can persist for some time after their return to Earth.
These challenges underscore the need for cognitive rehabilitation strategies and detailed psychological support programs for astronauts. Additionally, the prolonged isolation inherent within space missions can present a considerable stressor on mental health—and that is a factor which must be addressed in a mission’s overall preparation.
World Today news Senior Editor: It’s arduous to imagine the sensory adjustments. the article discusses a phenomenon they call “baby skin.” What causes this?
Heightened Sensitivity: The Phenomenon of “Baby Skin”
Dr.Stone: The term “baby skin” aptly describes the situation. In space, without gravity, clothing hovers slightly above the skin. This lack of continuous contact with clothing can lead to an increased sensitivity when astronauts return to Earth. In fact, the sensations of clothing touching the skin can become abrasive and, in some case, even cause pain.
Post-flight care may require astronauts to undergo physical therapy or require specialized clothing to help them transition to the touch of clothes again, once they’re back on Earth. It is indeed captivating how our bodies adjust their own mechanisms to their given environment.
World Today News Senior Editor: In these exciting times of space exploration, with ambitions of missions to Mars and beyond, what steps can we take to minimize the risks to astronaut health?
Countermeasures: The Future of Astronauts on Earth and Beyond
Dr. Stone: Protecting the long-term health of astronauts requires a multifaceted approach. The key is robust countermeasures. These include:
- Developing advanced exercise regimens.
- Improved nutritional strategies, including dietary supplements.
- Advancements in protective technologies.
- Carefully planning the mission duration.
- Providing comprehensive psychological support.
Moreover, ongoing research that is centered around these issues is critical so that we can better understand the long-term effects of spaceflight. Our future endeavors into deep space depend on refining these strategies and maintaining the well-being of those who pave the way.
World Today News Senior Editor: Thank you, dr. Stone, for your illuminating insights. Your expertise provides crucial context to grasp the profound challenges—and the unbelievable opportunities—of space exploration.
Dr. Stone: It was my pleasure.
World Today News Senior Editor Final remarks: As humanity continues to venture further into the cosmos, it is vitally important to reflect on the profound impact it has on the human body. By understanding, monitoring, and proactively confronting the health risks of spaceflight, we can ensure a sustainable future for space exploration. What are your thoughts about the future of astronauts and the challenges of space travel? Share your comments below!
