NASA astronaut Sunita Williams to develop 'baby feet' after landing on Earth – but how and why?

Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore Set for Return After 10 Months in Space

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are finally set to return. After nearly ten months in space, their journey home is scheduled for mid-March. However, adjusting to Earth’s gravity will not be easy.

Former NASA astronaut Leroy Chiao shared insights on the challenges. He said astronauts experience "baby feet" after long space missions. This happens because foot calluses disappear in weightlessness. "You basically lose the thick part of your skin," Chiao said.

Besides soft feet, dizziness and nausea are common. Astronaut Terry Virts compared the experience to the flu. "I felt really heavy and really, really dizzy," he said. The body takes weeks to adjust after returning from space.

Why the Delay in Their Return?
Williams and Wilmore were originally on an eight-day mission. However, their Boeing Starliner spacecraft developed issues. As a result, they remained at the International Space Station. Their extended stay raised concerns about their health.

The delay also sparked political debate. Former President Donald Trump and Elon Musk blamed the Biden administration. They argued NASA had not acted fast enough to bring them back.

Now, a return plan is finally in place. NASA has announced that Crew-9 will launch on 12 March. After that, the SpaceX Dragon capsule will bring Williams and Wilmore home. The return journey is scheduled for 16 March.