Astronauts floating in zero gravity on the ISS may seem fascinating, but prolonged space travel has severe effects on their bodies. After returning to Earth, they face issues like dizziness, nausea, and difficulty walking. NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who originally traveled to the ISS for an 8-day mission, ended up staying for 9 months due to technical reasons. They are set to return to Earth on Wednesday aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.

Astronauts have previously shared the physical challenges they face after extended space missions, including difficulty walking, vision problems, dizziness, and "baby feet" (thinning of the skin on the feet and other areas). The Baylor College of Medicine in Houston stated that upon return, astronauts must readjust to Earth's gravity, initially requiring support like sitting in a chair. The Japanese space agency JAXA explained that space travel affects the vestibular system, causing balance issues and space sickness upon return.

Astronauts also experience a loss of bone density, with up to 1% lost per month. To recover, they must engage in treadmill exercises. Their immune systems also weaken, though no astronaut has reported infections so far. Despite being stuck in the ISS for 9 months, astronauts like Sunita Williams receive only their regular salary, as they are considered federal employees. They earn between ₹81 lakh and ₹1.41 crore per year, with an additional daily stipend of ₹347 ($4) for unexpected situations in space.