‘Long term effects a little worrisome’: Ex NASA astronaut Sunita Williams about life on Earth after 286 day long space mission

Retired NASA astronaut Sunita Williams spoke about the physical challenges astronauts face after returning from long-duration space missions, noting that the human body takes time to adapt to Earth’s gravity after months in space.

Speaking on a podcast with entrepreneur Raj Chamani, Williams said that prolonged exposure to microgravity can have lasting effects on the body, some of which continue to concern astronauts and scientists. “Some of those long-term effects of being in space, in general, are a little concerning,” she said, adding that astronauts are taking as many precautions as possible.

Williams said astronauts usually feel unwell immediately after landing, although the discomfort eases over time. Recalling her 286-day mission, she said nausea was one of the biggest challenges, especially since the spacecraft landed in water, which exacerbated the disorientation after the fall.

She explained that in space, the body’s balance system is largely inactive, because gravity no longer affects the inner ear. When astronauts return to Earth, gravity suddenly becomes dominant again, often leading to dizziness and nausea that can last up to two days. “For me, I felt nauseous for about 24 hours,” Williams said.

Even small movements, such as lifting or tilting the head while removing a spacesuit, can intensify the discomfort. Because of balance problems, astronauts are assisted while exiting the spacecraft to prevent falls and injuries. Once in their suits, they are able to walk short distances with support, including access to a waiting helicopter.

The body also needs time to retrain muscles that are necessary for balance on Earth but weaken in microgravity, especially the small stabilizing muscles in the neck, Williams said. Full recovery is gradual and can take about a month, she said, as the astronauts work closely with physical trainers and undergo regular medical evaluations.

She added that astronauts sometimes briefly forget how gravity works after they return, such as letting go of objects instinctively, a habit formed in space that quickly corrects itself back on Earth. She noted that balance support is usually only needed for the first two days.

Williams also said astronauts avoid driving immediately after their return, because reaction times may be slower during the initial recovery phase.

Beyond the physical adjustment, she talked about how intense the sensory experiences on Earth are after spaceflight. Recalling her first mission, she said the smell of the ground after landing was a strong reminder to return home. “That smell was very prevalent,” she said.

She added that astronauts miss simple sensations in space, such as wind, running water, and daily routines, noting that ordinary activities such as showering or washing hands seem especially meaningful after months in orbit.