What Long Term Space Travel Does to a Body
Spending months in space can have serious effects on the human body. NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams recently returned to Earth after an unexpected nine-month stay on the International Space Station. Their time in space left them weak, with noticeable physical changes and potential long-term health risks.
Muscle and Bone Loss
In microgravity, muscles and bones don’t have to work as hard as they do on Earth. This leads to muscle atrophy and bone loss. Even with two hours of daily exercise, astronauts lose strength. Once back on Earth, they struggle to walk and must go through rehabilitation to regain mobility.
Vision Problems
Microgravity causes fluids to shift upward in the body, putting pressure on the eyes. This can lead to blurry vision, a condition known as Spaceflight Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS). Studies show that while some astronauts recover, others experience lasting damage.
Radiation Exposure
Without Earth’s protective atmosphere, astronauts are exposed to high levels of space radiation. This increases the risk of cancer, heart disease, and central nervous system damage.
Cognitive Decline
Space travel also affects brain function. Astronauts may experience slower thinking, memory issues, and increased risk-taking behavior. These effects usually improve after returning to Earth, but extended missions could have lasting consequences.
Immune System Weakening
Space travel can weaken the immune system, making astronauts more vulnerable to infections and slower to heal from injuries.
Fluid Shifts and ‘Moon Face’
Fluids move toward the head, causing facial puffiness and “chicken legs” due to reduced circulation in the lower body. This shift can also lead to increased pressure in the brain.
NASA’s rehabilitation programs help astronauts recover, but some effects of space travel may never fully reverse.
What Long Term Space Travel Does to a Body was originally published on ronewibc.staging.go.ione.nyc