NASA Astronauts Face Severe Health Risks After 286 Days in Space

After an unexpected nine-month stay aboard the International Space Station, NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams have returned to Earth, showing significant physical changes due to prolonged microgravity exposure. Initial images reveal the astronauts appearing gaunt and frail, with medical teams assisting them onto stretchers for evaluations immediately following their splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico. Experts warn of a range of potential health issues stemming from their time in space, including muscle atrophy, bone density loss, and risks of cognitive impairment and vision changes. Both astronauts are undergoing intensive medical assessments to monitor their recovery, which could take several weeks, including rehabilitation and nutritional support. The astronauts' ordeal has highlighted the severe impact of long-duration spaceflight on human health, prompting NASA to continue research on mitigating these effects. The situation underscores the ongoing challenges of space travel as NASA prepares for future missions to Mars and beyond.