• Source:JND
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Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams is preparing for one of her most difficult post-mission challenges—readjusting to Earth’s gravity. After spending months in space, the effects of microgravity will make even the simplest movements feel strenuous upon her return.

"Gravity is really tough, and that's what we feel when we get back," said fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, who will return to Earth alongside Williams. "Gravity starts pulling everything to lower extremities; fluids will be pulled down, and even lifting a pencil will feel like a workout," he told CNN.

Williams acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying, "It's gonna be a little bit hard to adapt. It’s a day-for-day process when you get your fast-twitch muscle action back." Astronauts returning from extended space missions often struggle with balance, coordination, and muscle strength due to prolonged weightlessness.

One of the biggest physiological changes astronauts experience in space is the redistribution of body fluids. The absence of gravity causes fluids to shift upwards, leading to what astronauts describe as “puffy faces” and thinner limbs. Upon re-entry to Earth, these fluids will rush back down, which may cause temporary discomfort, dizziness, and swelling in the legs.

Despite these challenges, Williams and Wilmore remain confident in their ability to readjust. They have been following a strict exercise regimen aboard the International Space Station (ISS) to minimise muscle atrophy and maintain cardiovascular health. The astronauts will also undergo rehabilitation upon landing to help them regain their strength and coordination.

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Sunita Williams Dismisses ‘Stranded In Space’ Claims

Meanwhile, their return has been accompanied by public speculation, fueled by statements from US President Donald Trump and billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk. Some claims suggested that the astronauts were "stranded" in space due to technical issues with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft.

Addressing these claims, Wilmore dismissed the narrative, saying, "That’s been the rhetoric. That’s been the narrative from day one: stranded, abandoned, stuck — and I get it. We both get it... But that is, again, not what our human spaceflight program is about."

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Williams echoed his sentiments, emphasising that she and Wilmore were well-prepared for any delays. "Butch and I knew this was a test flight. We knew that we would probably find some things (wrong with Starliner), and we found some stuff, and so that was not a surprise."

The two astronauts are set to return to Earth on March 19, where they will begin their readjustment process and share insights from their historic test mission aboard the Starliner spacecraft.