‘I’ve forgotten how to walk’: Sunita Williams on alarming effects of 7 months in space

Produced by: Manoj Kumar

Mission extended

Technical failures left Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore in orbit for over 7 months instead of 8 days.

Credit : NASA

Walking forgotten

“I’ve forgotten how to walk,” Sunita Williams shared, reflecting on the physical toll of microgravity.

Credit : NASA

Weight struggles

Doctors note Williams’ sunken cheeks signal a calorie deficit caused by appetite loss and food challenges.

Credit : NASA

Bone loss

Medical experts warn prolonged microgravity has likely weakened their bone density significantly.

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Spacewalk resilience

Despite health concerns, Williams and Wilmore completed a spacewalk to fix an antenna, showing grit.

Representative pic

NASA tracking

NASA’s routine checks ensure Williams and Wilmore’s cardiovascular and muscle health are closely monitored.

Credit : NASA

Rehab required

Doctors say both astronauts will need months of physiotherapy to rebuild strength and relearn walking.

Credit : NASA

Food limitations

Space diets lack variety; microgravity affects taste and appetite, contributing to weight loss.

Credit : NASA

Future insights

This mission gives NASA valuable data on long-term space travel’s effects for future Mars missions.

Credit : NASA