Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore recently shared their experiences on the effects of long-term space travel on the human body as they prepare for their return from the International Space Station (ISS) in 2025. During a press conference, Williams discussed the challenges of maintaining bone density while in space and emphasized the importance of their daily exercise regimen.

Williams explained that astronauts must engage in rigorous physical activity every day to combat bone loss. Their workouts include cardiovascular exercises, treadmill running, and strength training. "If we don’t work out every day, we’ll lose bone density," Williams said. She begins her routine at 6:30 a.m., while Wilmore starts even earlier, at 4:30 a.m.

Wilmore mentioned that joint health improves in space due to the lack of pressure on joints, making movement pain-free. "There are no joint aches in space because there’s no pressure on any joint, which makes it very easy," he said.

Both astronauts also talked about the emotional and mental challenges of being far from home. Wilmore acknowledged that their extensive training helps them manage these difficulties. "It doesn’t matter when we get back home. We work the best we can every single day at the ISS," he said. Williams reflected on the unique perspective gained from space, stating, "It’s the one planet we have, and we should all really be happy that we’re here together because that’s it—that’s our place."

Despite missing their families, both astronauts maintain a positive attitude about their extended mission. They are trained to handle unexpected situations, including technical issues, such as the delay in their return due to problems with the Starliner spacecraft. Their return is now scheduled for next year on a SpaceX flight.

In addition to bone loss, the astronauts also face higher levels of radiation and the effects of microgravity, which causes fluid to redistribute in the body, often leading to puffiness. Despite these physical challenges and the psychological toll of isolation, Williams and Wilmore remain focused on their mission.

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