Challenges Await Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore After Returning to Earth

Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore face health challenges after their nine-month space mission.

Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams and her crewmate Barry Wilmore are returning to Earth after spending nine months in space. During their time on the International Space Station, they faced numerous challenges, and adjusting to life on Earth will not be easy either.

Difficulties in Walking

The environment in space is zero gravity, which means astronauts cannot walk normally. When they attempt to walk after returning to Earth, they will experience difficulty. Their steps will feel smaller than usual, a condition known as “baby feet.”

Impact on the Brain

After returning to Earth, fluids inside astronauts’ bodies tend to accumulate around the brain. This fluid buildup can cause changes in the shape of their eye pupils, leading to vision problems.

Weakened Heart and Muscles

Astronauts experience a decrease in bone density while in space, which does not recover quickly. Their muscle mass also reduces, making their limbs weak. Additionally, their heart function is affected, and there is an increased risk of blood clot formation.

Flu-like Symptoms

After spending months in a zero-gravity environment, astronauts feel much heavier upon returning to Earth’s gravity. They may experience dizziness and flu-like symptoms. Their bodies become so weak that even lifting a pencil can feel like an intense workout.

Returning to Earth After Nine Months

After nine months in space, Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore are set to return. Their stay on the International Space Station has been a record-setting mission for American astronauts.

Prayers in Mehsana, Eternal Flame Burning for Nine Months

Sunita Williams’ ancestral village, Jhulasan in Mehsana, Gujarat, has been holding continuous prayers for her safety. Since her departure to space, villagers have been taking care of an eternal flame that was lit for her safe return.

As she prepares to come back to Earth, the villagers have planned a Diwali-like celebration on Wednesday to mark the occasion. Williams’ father, Deepak Pandya, moved to the United States from Jhulasan in 1957, but their family still has roots in the village.