Space Travel’s Lasting Impact: 9 Months in Space Explained

Space Travel’s Lasting Impact: 9 Months in Space Explained

Space News: A Sunita Williams, the famous astronaut of Indian origin, will soon be returning to Earth after spending an almost full nine months in space aboard the International Space Station (ISS). While her missions inspire millions, they also offer an occasion to understand how the human body responds, sometimes permanently, to long-term exposure to space.

The Microgravity Effects

One of the primary conditions for astronauts like Sunita Williams would be microgravity. In space, with absence of gravity, the constant pull is lost to the body from the Earth. This results in a gradual muscle atrophy and loss of bone density. According to some estimates, a space astronaut might be able to lose bone mass at a rate of 1-2% each month. Because of that, a fracture risk increases post going back to Earth. Highly strenuous work out regimen on the ISS reduces the damaging effects; however, it does not ensure the total reversal of bone loss.

Fluid Migrate and Changes in Vision

Under microgravity, body fluids have a tendency to shift toward the upper body and the head, where it causes facial puffiness and increased pressure on the eyeballs. And many astronauts, including Williams, have also reported that they suffered from vision problems-a condition that is considered Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS). Changes in this vision may last for a long time after arriving at home. Further research is ongoing regarding the long-term effects on such changes.

Studies on Cardiovascular Diseases

Another malady of muscles weakening is that of the heart. The workload of the heart decreases because no more blood needs to be pushed against the pull of gravity, and this ultimately decreases cardiac muscle mass. All these changes may lead to fainting and the low pressure experienced by astronauts when coming back to Earth.

Radiation Exposure

Astronauts are exposed to much higher levels of cosmic radiation compared to the levels found on Earth, as space does not have an atmospheric shell around it. So long missions like Williams increase the chances of radiation-induced DNA damage, which eventually becomes more susceptible over time to cancers and other genetic mutations.

Psychological and Circadian Effects

The circadian phase has now been thrown into chaos due to absence of natural daylight. The situation might turn worse when people are isolated in small, bare chambers for months removed from family and nature. The most-displayed symptoms found among astronauts include sleeplessness, mood changes, and cognitive change, most of which remain even after the mission.

Research and Close Solutions

NASA and other agencies study such physiological and psychological effects continuously. Valid solutions include daily exercises, balanced nutrition, vitamin D supplementation, and psychological support systems so astronauts keep thriving health. The experience of Sunita Williams was, however, an enormous source of data for scientists intending to prepare for an even longer mission, such as the journey to Mars.

Conclusion

Sunita Williams can thrive in space yet pays the price in her body. Some changes, such as muscle weakness or changes in vision, may improve with time.

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