NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, who spent nine months aboard the ISS due to technical issues, showed signs of significant physical strain upon returning to Earth, but medical experts assure her rapid recovery as she regains weight and normal metabolism.

When astronaut Sunita Williams returned to Earth after an unplanned nine-month stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS), her appearance left many shocked.

Despite spending 288 days in space, Williams seemed frail and visibly changed. After her splashdown off the coast of Florida on March 18, 2025, many noticed her thin, sunken face and gray hair.

For a brief moment, it looked as though Williams had aged significantly, which sparked concern about her health.

But in a follow-up interview, medical experts, including pulmonologist Vinay Gupta, reassured the public that Williams’ recovery was already underway.

Gupta, who has a background in the Air Force and specializes in pulmonology, stated that Williams’ face appeared fuller and less gaunt than when she had first landed.

“She just looks like she’s gotten better sleep,” he explained. “She’s back on solid ground, and her metabolism is starting to adjust to normal gravity again.”

The first few hours after landing had been especially alarming. Observers noted that Williams’ condition seemed even more alarming when medical professionals noticed the astronaut’s thin wrists.

It was suggested that her weight loss and muscular wasting, both signs of the toll long-term space travel can take, were evident.

The pressure of space’s low gravity on her body had led to a significant reduction in muscle mass and bone density, conditions that require careful rehabilitation once back on Earth.

Though the duo was stranded on the ISS far beyond the initial mission duration, Williams and her fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore had to deal with the consequences of their unexpected stay.

Originally, their mission aboard Boeing’s Starliner was scheduled for just eight days, but the spacecraft encountered severe technical difficulties upon arrival.

Five out of 28 thrusters on the Starliner failed, and helium began leaking from the capsule, forcing NASA to make contingency plans.

By the time the astronauts returned, over nine months had passed, and both showed the effects of the prolonged exposure to low gravity.

Williams, who previously had been an active astronaut known for her achievements—including a record-breaking spacewalk—found herself facing health challenges she never anticipated.

During their extended stay, NASA scrambled to manage their health issues, particularly with regards to their weight.

According to anonymous sources, Williams had struggled to maintain the high-calorie intake required for astronauts, leading to an accelerated weight loss. Despite these struggles, her resilience and determination allowed her to continue her work in space.

The astronauts’ meals during their stay in space became a topic of discussion, with some speculating that Williams’ vegetarian diet might have contributed to her struggles with weight management.

Dr. Gupta explained that astronauts require high-calorie, protein-rich foods to maintain their energy levels and prevent muscle loss. “Meat-based proteins are essential in helping astronauts maintain their metabolism, especially in low gravity,” Gupta explained.

The question of diet differences between Williams and Wilmore remains open, as NASA has not confirmed any significant discrepancies in their meal plans.

Upon her return to Earth, Williams’ appearance began to improve, though it was clear that full recovery would take time. She looked noticeably healthier just two weeks after landing, with a more robust face and even dyed her hair back to its dark brown color.

Gupta was optimistic, stating, “I think the worst is well behind them. Now that they’re back on Earth, their bodies can begin to heal and stabilize.”

While medical experts remain cautious, the recovery process for astronauts who have been in space for long periods is well-documented.

Studies have shown that it can take up to 1.5 times the duration of their space missions to fully recover from the physical effects of extended space travel.

In the case of Williams and Wilmore, they may need up to a year to regain full physical and mental health, but the early signs of recovery are promising.

During a NASA press conference, Williams herself described her recovery as “miraculous,” attributing her improved condition to a combination of better sleep, gravity, and a return to a more normal environment.

Williams and Wilmore are both expected to undergo rehabilitation for several weeks to regain their strength and muscle mass, especially given the challenges they faced during their extended stay on the ISS.

In addition to the physical toll, Williams’ journey has also been a personal one. Before her return, she shared her excitement about reuniting with her family, including her father, a vegetarian.

After returning to Earth, her first meal was a grilled cheese sandwich, a comforting choice after months of relying on pre-packaged meals in space.

Although their mission was marred by unforeseen technical problems, the perseverance shown by both Williams and Wilmore is a testament to their professionalism and resilience.

As both astronauts continue their recovery, their journey underscores the immense challenges astronauts face during extended space missions.

With a full recovery likely, the hope is that their experiences will help inform future missions and improve the safety and health of astronauts for years to come.