How astronaut Sunita Williams plans to readjust to Earth's gravity
What's the story
Astronaut Sunita Williams is preparing for a tough transition back to Earth's gravity, after her long mission on the International Space Station (ISS). Her fellow astronaut, Butch Wilmore, emphasized the challenges they will encounter on their return. "Gravity is really tough, and that's what we feel when we get back," Wilmore told CNN. He added that even simple tasks like lifting a pencil would feel like strenuous exercise due to the sudden shift in gravitational forces.
Adaptation challenges
Williams acknowledges difficulties of readjusting to Earth's gravity
Williams admitted that readjusting to Earth's gravity after months in a weightless environment is not easy. "It's gonna be a little bit hard to adapt," she said. She went on to explain that regaining fast-twitch muscle action is a day-by-day process, and within 24 hours of returning, they'll start losing the unique sensations of weightlessness they've experienced during their time in space.
Health impact
Extended space stay leads to physiological changes
Extended stays in microgravity can lead to drastic physiological changes, such as muscle atrophy and bone density loss. Astronauts can lose as much as 1% of their bone mass per month due to the absence of weight-bearing activities. As Williams prepares for her return, she will likely have to follow a rigorous rehabilitation program to regain strength and bone density.
Physical changes
Fluid redistribution in space can cause temporary discomfort
In space, body fluids redistribute, resulting in "puffy faces" and thinner limbs. When they return to Earth, these fluids will shift back to their normal distribution, possibly causing temporary discomfort as the body readjusts. Despite these challenges, both Williams and Wilmore are optimistic about their return. They have previously adapted quickly after extended missions and hope for a similar experience this time.
Return journey
Williams and Wilmore to return on SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft
Williams and Wilmore are set to board SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft for their journey home on March 19. Their return has been expedited after US President Donald Trump demanded last month, for SpaceX CEO Elon Musk to bring them back "as soon as possible." The Crew-10 mission will launch from Earth on March 12 and dock with the ISS for a six-month-long mission. After a week-long handover, the capsule will return to Earth.