Floating for Nine Months: The Unexpected Journey of Astronauts Back to Earth
Returning to Earth's Grasp: Emotions of Astronauts Upon Their Homecoming - Astronauts' Sensations Upon Earth Reentry
For the lucky ones, nine months in space might seem like a dream come true. But for astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, it turned into an unexpected expedition. Detached from Earth since last June, they were supposed to return home in a week. However, their initial ride, the Starliner, was unable to launch, leaving SpaceX as their only hope. But even Elon Musk's enterprise faces challenges. Their grand journey finally came to an end this Wednesday, as they returned unharmed to their home planet.
Medical scientists have eagerly awaited their arrival. Apart from their contributions on the International Space Station, Wilmore and Williams are going to be invaluable research subjects. They spent an extended amount of time in space, making them an exceptional opportunity for understanding long-term space travel effects on the human body.
The Constant Chill Returns: Adjusting to Earth's Gravity
The thrill of returning to Earth will bring some surprising sensations. Astrophysicist Alan Duffy from Swinburne University hints that Wilmore and Williams will experience several peculiar physical symptoms. The absence of gravity leads to an irreversible decrease in bone density, which can cause brittle bones and weaken muscles. Additionally, the heart, which usually pumps blood against gravity, will have to readjust to the new conditions.
Moreover, we can bid farewell to the constant chill in space. As Duffy puts it, "The liquid in the head accumulates, causing a permanent feeling of coolness." The sense of smell will also initially be impaired, making space a tad less unpleasant.
On the bright side, the long sickness that lingered for nine months should finally disappear upon return. Although, they might struggle to walk, feel dizzy, and have blurred vision for some time.
Navigating Recovery: A Long Road Ahead
Wilmore and Williams can expect changes to their eyesight, as fluid accumulation impacts the shape of the eyeballs. Eyeglasses may be necessary, even for those who previously had 20/20 vision. However, the eyesight will usually go back to normal, though there is a possibility that some astronauts may require glasses for the rest of their lives.
"Their recovery will be like the intensive physical therapy of a patient waking up from a coma," Duffy says.
In space, the skin experiences less friction, making it sensitive to touch, similar to a newborn's skin upon arrival on Earth.
The Hidden Danger: Radiation
The most concerning aspect of prolonged space travel is radiation exposure, which can cause an increasing risk of cancer, central nervous system damage, and degenerative diseases. Earth's atmosphere and magnetic field provide considerable protection, but astronauts lack the same shield in space.
Extended stay in space is a research project of its own, revealing insights into how to treat patients with extended hospital stays that mimic a life without gravity.
Mental Toll: The Internal Battle
Although the physical toll is evident, the mental and emotional strain on astronauts is substantial, especially during prolonged missions like Wilmore and Williams'. "Passengers of long-haul flights might imagine this," Duffy explains, "except now, you can see your hometown the whole time." The resilience of these individuals is indeed commendable, as mental health challenges are common due to mission length and demanding conditions. Anxiety, depression, and behavioral changes are all unfortunate consequences of extreme isolation.
Despite the challenges, some astronauts report positive emotions known as the "overview effect." This sensation, characterized by a deep connection to humanity and a newfound respect for Earth's fragility, has been a source of inspiration for many astronauts. Experts refer to it as a powerful emotional experience that can lead to lasting personal growth.
- "Despite spending months in space, astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams will feel a constant chill upon their return to Earth, as Duffy explains, due to the liquid in their heads accumulating, causing a permanent feeling of coolness."
- "Upon their return, Wilmore and Williams might struggle to adapt to Earth's gravity, experiencing symptoms such as brittle bones, weak muscles, and a heart that needs to adjust to the new conditions."
- "The mental toll of prolonged space travel on astronauts, like Wilmore and Williams, is substantial, with anxiety, depression, and behavioral changes being common due to extreme isolation and demanding conditions."
