Nine Months in Space: The Physical and Psychological Toll on Astronauts
US astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore have finally returned to Earth after an unexpected nine-month stay aboard the International Space Station. Initially set for a one-week mission, their return was delayed due to issues with the Boeing Starliner-1, extending their time in space to 286 days—far longer than planned.
Although they don't hold the record for the longest continuous space stay—that title goes to cosmonaut Valeri Polyakov, who spent 437 days on the Soviet Mir station—Williams and Wilmore now have the longest unplanned spaceflight among US astronauts. This unforeseen extension raises questions about potential effects not typically observed in planned long-duration missions.
NASA is well-versed in the risks of space travel, categorized under "RIDGE": Radiation, Isolation, Distance from Earth, Gravity effects, and hostile Environments. These factors are critical in aerospace medicine.
The astronauts returned to Earth via a SpaceX capsule, landing off the Florida coast. Prolonged space travel can lead to various physical issues, such as blood clots, bone density loss, digestive problems, reduced nutrient absorption, muscle atrophy, and cardiovascular issues due to zero gravity. Other effects include changes to the eyes from fluid shifts and a persistent feeling of congestion. A diminished sense of smell might be beneficial, given the often unpleasant odors in space capsules.
Compression garments can help alleviate fluid-related issues, while exercise equipment like treadmills and resistance devices can mitigate muscle and bone loss. Radiation exposure remains a significant concern, potentially increasing cancer risks later in life. Wilmore and Williams will undergo long-term health monitoring.
During their extended mission, the astronauts provided valuable data on the impacts of prolonged space stays. Their bodily functions were closely monitored for health changes. Upon returning to Earth, they will need gradual physiotherapy to regain muscle strength and cardiovascular health, as they will experience dizziness, muscle weakness, and vision problems. Even walking will require practice, and their skin will be unusually soft from the lack of friction against clothing.
Psychologically, the astronauts faced challenges from the "near miss" of not returning in their original vehicle, living in confined quarters, and enduring a lack of privacy. Such conditions can lead to behavioral or psychiatric issues. Astronauts are selected for their ability to handle stress and maintain order under pressure, but human vulnerabilities can still surface over time.
Training emphasizes resilience, and astronauts are taught to manage fears and anxieties for the mission's sake. However, relief and other emotions may surface after returning home. Depression and anxiety are common post-mission experiences, as noted by Buzz Aldrin in his autobiography.
The astronauts might have felt abandoned, questioning the delay in their rescue and possibly losing trust in technology and their crew. They likely missed family milestones and experienced homesickness. Video calls with family, while comforting, could also be painful reminders of their separation.
Sleep disturbances and fatigue from irregular rest can impair performance. Being stuck on the ISS, watching Earth pass by, can be uniquely frustrating. Yet, many astronauts report a profound "overview effect," a lasting sense of unity with Earth from seeing it from space.
Understanding the psychological effects of space travel is complex, as astronauts may downplay negatives to secure future missions. As NASA plans for Mars missions, the experiences of Wilmore and Williams will be invaluable for selecting astronauts suited for long-term space travel.