Before-and-after photos of astronauts returning to Earth reveal the shocking physical impact of being stranded in space for nine months.
NASA astronauts Barry “Butch” Wilmore and Sunita “Suni” Williams have recently returned to Earth after spending nine months on the International Space Station (ISS).
Their long stay in space has significantly impacted their health and physical condition.
The astronauts began their journey back home safely.
On March 18, 2025, Wilmore and Williams returned aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. They had been stranded in orbit since June of the previous year.
After landing in the Gulf of Mexico near Tallahassee, Florida, medical teams immediately took the astronauts for evaluations.
Medical teams transported them on stretchers, indicating the toll of long-term space travel on their bodies.
Dramatic physical changes after being stranded in space for nine months
Before their space mission, Wilmore and Williams looked healthy and fit. However, after nine months in microgravity, observers noted that they appeared thinner and more frail.
The effects of living in space are evident in their physical appearance. The lack of gravity can lead to muscle loss and fluid shifts in the body.
The astronauts are now facing various health issues. The long duration in space can lead to problems such as muscle atrophy and bone density loss.
Both astronauts have undergone medical tests to assess their conditions. Doctors are particularly concerned about their muscle strength and overall fitness.
The effects of microgravity
Living in microgravity causes significant changes in the body. Without the force of gravity, muscles can weaken over time.
This is why Wilmore and Williams struggled to walk upon their return.
Despite their exercise routines in space, they still faced challenges with muscle strength.
Fluid build-up and vision issues
Another issue astronauts face is fluid build-up in their heads.
This condition, known as Spaceflight Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS), can cause pressure on the eyes. It may lead to blurry vision and other visual problems.
While some astronauts recover their vision after returning to Earth, others may experience lasting effects.
Recovery from space travel requires time and patience.
Experts say that most astronauts can regain their fitness levels within 45 days of returning to Earth. However, some may need months or even years to fully recover.
The readjustment to gravity can be difficult. Astronauts often feel dizzy and nauseous as their bodies readjust to life on Earth.
Retired astronaut Tim Peake shared his experience of returning to Earth.
He explained that the first few days can be very challenging. The body needs time to adjust to the pull of gravity again.
“For me, going into space was no problem at all, but for the first two days on Earth, I felt pretty rough.
“I think Butch and Suni will be feeling a bit rough right now. You know, the whole body is just getting used to gravity.
The vestibular systems are a bit messed up. You feel dizzy, a bit nauseous. So, it’ll take them a couple of days to get over that.”
NASA acknowledges the risks associated with long-duration space missions. They have a rigorous medical evaluation process for returning astronauts.
This allows doctors to identify and treat any potential health issues promptly.
The focus is on helping astronauts recover and regain their strength as quickly as possible.