Astronauts reveal what returning to Earth feels like after stranded duo are home after nine months
- Two astronauts have returned to Earth after nine months in space
- Their return could lead to a long readjustment period
- Other astronauts have shared what they can expect upon their return
Published on Mar 20, 2025 at 12:34 PM (UTC+4)
by Henry Kelsall
Last updated on Mar 20, 2025 at 1:31 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Tom Wood
Two British astronauts revealed what it was like to be stuck on the International Space Station for over nine months.
Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore had launched in June 2024 for what should have been a routine mission before problems with their capsule meant they were stuck.
Finally, after nine months, they returned to Earth via a SpaceX capsule on Tuesday, March 18th.
Since returning to Earth, fellow astronauts have revealed what it will be like for them after so long away from home.
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It can take months for astronauts to return to full fitness
Famous British astronaut Tim Peake recently spoke to ITV News about it and explained how they might feel upon their return.
Peake said that the body ‘has to cope with gravity again’ with more load placed on the bones and muscles.
It could take two months for them to get back to their pre-flight fitness.
Fellow astronaut Meganne Christian said that the feeling of returning to gravity was like ‘when a car turns a corner and you feel that extra weight on you.’
There are also health risks associated with returning to Earth too.
Astronauts lose muscle mass, and they have to work hard to get that back once they return home.
They also lose bone density, which could lead to an increased risk of kidney stones and diabetes.
What the pair will most look forward to on Earth
Upon their return, the two astronauts will look forward to different things.
Suni said she was looking forward to a pizza, and Peake said his first meal after returning was a pizza and cold beer.
Suni has also said she is likely to never return to space again after this mission.
Leaving space can sometimes be an emotional drain on astronauts, who become accustomed to it being their home.
Wilmore and Williams were only meant to be in orbit for eight days before their Boeing capsule malfunctioned.
The record amount of time in orbit was set by Frank Rubio.
He spent 371 days up there which finally ended in 2023.
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Henry is a content writer with nearly ten years experience, having written for various publications since 2017. Qualifying with a Sports Journalism degree from Staffordshire University, Henry loves all things automotive but has a particular soft spot for classic Japanese cars and anything Lancia. He also has a curious passion for steam locomotives.
