NASA Astronauts Return to Earth, Show Signs of Health Decline

After a nine-month mission aboard the International Space Station, NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams returned to Earth on March 18, facing potential health complications from their extended stay in microgravity. Experts warn that they may experience issues such as muscle atrophy, vision changes, and a weakened immune system, as observed in Williams' struggles to maintain muscle strength upon landing. Both astronauts will undergo extensive medical monitoring at NASA's Johnson Space Center to assess their recovery, with particular attention to cardiac, neurological, and vision-related health. Concerns have been raised about visible signs of physical decline, including weight loss and muscle wasting, especially in Williams compared to Wilmore. Health risks associated with long-duration spaceflight include Spaceflight Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS), which can lead to permanent vision damage. Despite these challenges, the astronauts expressed relief at returning home, as the complications of readjustment are deemed preferable to remaining in space.