While awaiting the return of astronauts stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) for six months, critical health issues such as ‘baby foot’ are expected to affect the astronauts.

US astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore have been stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) since June due to technical issues with Boeing spacecraft. After a long wait, the pair and two other astronauts opened the hatch of the SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule that would take them back to Earth. According to NASA, if all goes as planned, the capsule carrying the astronauts will land in the waters off the Gulf Coast of Florida at midnight Turkish time after a journey of approximately 17 hours. However, Suni and Butch may look and feel a bit different upon their return to Earth. One of the issues that can arise, known as ‘baby foot,’ can be quite discomforting.

WHAT IS BABY FOOT?

Walking on Earth exposes the soles of our feet to constant pressure and friction, causing the skin to thicken over time to protect against abrasions, discomfort, and pain. However, in space where there is no gravity, the soles of astronauts’ feet are hardly subjected to any pressure due to the lack of walking.

“SKIN PEELS SLOWLY”

Former NASA astronaut Leroy Chiao explained on NewsNation Prime, “Within six months to a year, the thick and calloused skin on your feet slowly peels away.” After the shedding of tough skin, Chiao noted that the feet usually remain soft and sensitive, likening the sensation to having ‘baby feet’ upon returning to Earth. The process of the feet hardening and gaining resilience can take weeks or even months, making walking uncomfortable and even painful during this period. Chiao also mentioned, “Your balance system is disrupted, so you may feel a bit queasy, almost like having the flu, and it takes a few weeks to feel normal.” Another former NASA astronaut, Terry Virts, described his sensations upon setting foot on Earth as, “I felt like I was experiencing a really severe case of vertigo,” struggling to regain his balance.

WHAT OTHER SIDE EFFECTS DO ASTRONAUTS FACE?

The human body, evolved to live in a gravitational environment, encounters problems in bodily functions such as balance, muscle mass, and cell production when exposed to a gravity-free environment for a long time. Therefore, when astronauts return to Earth and encounter gravity again, they may experience severe vertigo issues. Prolonged stay in a gravity-free environment inhibits the working of muscles used in daily activities on Earth. For example, walking does not require the leg muscles or standing does not need neck and back muscles. Consequently, the human body begins to break down disused muscles over time, a process known as muscle atrophy.

HEARTS SHRINKING

Additionally, the hearts of astronauts who spend long periods in a gravity-free environment may shrink slightly because the body no longer needs to exert as much effort to pump blood. Furthermore, the movement of body fluids in a gravity-free environment can exert pressure on the optic nerve, causing blurred vision. In addition, long-term isolation and confinement in a small space can lead to psychological effects, causing anxiety and depression.

HOW DO ASTRONAUTS RECOVER?

Returning astronauts undergo physical and psychological evaluations followed by a comprehensive rehabilitation process that includes strengthening exercises, cardiovascular workouts, and psychological support. Most astronauts recover completely over time, but some may encounter long-term effects.