Astronauts stranded in the International Space Station (ISS) for 9 months have returned to Earth. Upon their return to Earth, astronauts face critical health issues, such as ‘baby feet.’

US astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore had been stuck on the International Space Station (ISS) since June due to technical issues with Boeing spacecraft. After a long wait, the pair and two other astronauts landed in the waters off the Gulf Coast of Florida following a nearly 17-hour journey. The opening of the capsule’s hatches is expected soon. However, after floating in space for a long time, Suni and Butch may look and feel a bit different upon their return to Earth. One concern is a condition known as ‘baby feet,’ which can be quite uncomfortable. WHAT IS BABY FEET?

Walking on Earth subjects human foot soles to constant pressure and friction, causing the skin to thicken over time and protect the feet from abrasions, discomfort, and pain. However, in space, where there is no gravity, the soles of astronauts who cannot walk are exposed to almost no pressure. “SKIN PEELS SLOWLY”

Former NASA astronaut Leroy Chiao, in an interview with NewsNation Prime, said, “The thick and callused skin on your feet peels slowly within six months to a year.” Chiao mentioned that after the peeling of tough skin, foot soles typically remain soft and sensitive, likening it to having ‘baby feet’ upon returning to Earth. It can take weeks or even months for the feet to harden and gain durability again. Walking during this period can be uncomfortable and even painful. Chiao also stated, “You might feel a bit sick, feeling nauseous, and in my opinion, it feels like having the flu, taking a few weeks to feel normal.” Another former NASA astronaut, Terry Virts, described his feelings upon stepping foot on Earth as, “I was experiencing really intense vertigo.” He struggled to regain his balance. OTHER SIDE EFFECTS ASTRONAUTS FACE:

The human body adapted to living in a gravity environment experiences problems in bodily functions such as the sense of balance, muscle mass, and cell production after being exposed to weightlessness for an extended time. Therefore, astronauts returning to Earth may have serious vertigo due to meeting gravity again. Staying in a weightless environment for an extended period inhibits the working of muscles used in daily life on Earth. For example, to walk, leg muscles or to stand erect, neck and back muscles are not needed. Consequently, the human body starts breaking down unused muscles. This process is called muscle atrophy. HEART SHRINKS

Additionally, the hearts of astronauts who spend a long time in a weightless environment may shrink a bit because the body no longer needs to make as much effort to pump blood. Furthermore, since body fluids of astronauts move differently in a weightless environment, pressure on the optic nerve can cause blurry vision. In addition, prolonged isolation and staying in a closed small space can lead to psychological effects, causing anxiety and depression. HOW DO ASTRONAUTS RECOVER?

Upon returning to Earth, astronauts undergo physical and psychological evaluations. A comprehensive rehabilitation process begins, involving strengthening exercises, cardiovascular workouts, and psychological support. Most astronauts fully recover over time. However, some may encounter long-term effects.