‘May not be able to walk...’: Sunita Williams exposed to 9 years of radiation in 9 months
Produced by: Manoj Kumar
Gravity Shock
After nine months in space, Williams and Wilmore may not walk when they land on March 16, 2025—doctors say Earth’s gravity will overwhelm their weakened bodies.
Bone Crisis
NASA warns that astronauts can lose up to 1.5% bone density monthly—putting Williams and Wilmore at risk of fractures and early osteoporosis.
Radiation Danger
Spending nine months on the ISS exposed them to nine years’ worth of Earth radiation—raising long-term cancer and heart disease risks, NASA studies show.
Space Strain
Astronauts lose 20% muscle mass in just five days of low gravity. Despite two hours of daily exercise, Williams and Wilmore are expected to struggle standing upright.
Mind Games
Psychiatrist Dr. Carole Lieberman says astronauts face deep emotional trauma—fear, betrayal, anger—after being forced to stay in space for months longer than planned.
Osteo Challenge
To rebuild bones, they’ll need to lift over four times their body weight, a feat that rivals world-record squats—according to biomedical expert Dr. John Jaquish.
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Heart Struggle
Months without gravity weakens the heart—NASA confirms blood and fluids shift toward the head, forcing the cardiovascular system to “forget” how to pump properly on Earth.
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Rehab Race
Doctors plan a grueling 45-day rehab with walking, strength, cardio, and bone loading exercises—yet experts say full recovery may still take years, if at all.
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Mission Twist
Originally set for 8 days, their ISS mission stretched to over 270 days due to Boeing Starliner issues—turning a routine visit into a life-altering endurance test.