NASA Astronauts Return to Earth After 286 Days in Space, Showing Dramatic Physical Changes

Side-by-side images of NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams reveal the striking impact of nearly a year in space on the human body. The duo, who spent an astonishing 286 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS), returned to Earth on Tuesday, March 18, landing in the Gulf of Mexico aboard a SpaceX capsule.

As soon as they exited the capsule, medical personnel rushed them away on stretchers for immediate health evaluations. Their appearance—gaunt, pale, and visibly aged—showcased the extreme toll of long-duration space travel. The images, released by NASA, highlight the physical deterioration astronauts experience due to prolonged exposure to microgravity, requiring an extensive recovery period back on Earth.

Suni now

Living in space comes with significant health risks, many of which manifest upon return to Earth. Some of these include: Skin and vision deterioration, sometimes leading to blood clots. Radiation exposure, which increases the risk of cancer and cellular damage due to the lack of atmospheric protection.Eye swelling, loss of blood volume, and cardiovascular changes, which can result in arrhythmias and reduced aerobic capacity. Muscle atrophy and bone density loss, making movement difficult upon returning to Earth's gravity. Neurological changes, including disorientation, space motion sickness, and loss of spatial awareness

NASA, in collaboration with institutions like the Baylor College of Medicine, continues to study these effects, seeking ways to mitigate the physical breakdown of astronauts during extended space missions.

Originally, Wilmore and Williams were only meant to spend about a week in space following their launch aboard Boeing’s new Starliner crew capsule on June 5. However, unexpected technical setbacks prolonged their stay indefinitely, making them essential crew members aboard the ISS.

Butch Before

Butch in March 2025

Butch now

During their extended mission, they:  Completed 4,576 orbits around Earth, covering 121 million miles (195 million kilometers), Assisted with scientific research and equipment repairs and Conducted spacewalks, with Williams setting a record—logging 62 hours across nine spacewalks, the most ever completed by a female astronaut

Despite their professionalism and adaptability, the extended mission took an emotional toll on their families. Wilmore, 62, missed most of his younger daughter’s senior year and his older daughter’s college experience, while Williams, 59, relied on internet communication to stay connected with loved ones.

Wilmore (front left) and Williams (front right) pose with the other members of the Expedition 72 crew for a photo posted on October 4

The arrival of a replacement crew on Sunday, March 16, finally paved the way for Wilmore and Williams' return. NASA allowed them to leave earlier than planned, fearing unpredictable weather conditions later in the week.

Now back on Earth, their bodies must readjust to gravity, a process that could take months. Astronauts typically undergo physical therapy, rehabilitation, and medical monitoring to rebuild their strength and regain normal bodily functions.

Despite the hardships, both astronauts expressed no regrets about their extended stay in space, comparing it to their military service days—long, challenging, and filled with duty.