By Hash Techs 
After spending eight months in a state of microgravity, the 59-year-old astronaut Sunita Williams admitted to experiencing difficulty with basic movements like walking, sitting, and lying down. This issue arose due to a delay in NASA’s mission, which resulted in her being stranded in the International Space Station (ISS) with a fellow crew member.
Summary of essential information to be aware of.
- Two NASA astronauts are stranded aboard the ISS due to technical issues with the Boeing Starliner capsule.
- Sunita Williams disclosed that she had forgotten how to walk after spending eight months in a gravity-free environment.
- The crew’s arrival has been rescheduled for March, when they will be able to catch rides on SpaceX Crew-9.
What was the sequence of events?
Williams and Wilmore launched in June 2024 aboard the Boeing Starliner capsule for a brief visit to the ISS. However, the mission encountered issues with helium leaks and propulsor failures, leading NASA to deem the Starliner unsafe for their return journey.
The situation required waiting for SpaceX Crew-9 to return to Earth in February, but NASA postponed the plan to allow Crew-10 to be completed first. As a result, Sunita and Barry are stuck on the ISS until at least the end of March.
The influence of microgravity on the human body
Spending extended periods in space adversely affects astronauts’ health, as the absence of gravity leads to rapid muscle and bone deterioration. NASA reports that bones lose approximately 1% density each month in space, making it challenging for astronauts to readjust to walking on Earth upon their return. Moreover, the lack of gravitational force causes muscles to weaken since they are less utilized in space compared to on Earth.
Long-term astronauts often require assistance when returning home, as they may have forgotten how to walk after being in space for an extended period.
Crew-9’s return is still set for March, but there is uncertainty due to recent delays.