After spending nine months in space, the Crew-9 astronauts will experience several health challenges upon their return to Earth, such as puffiness in their heads, weakened muscles, reduced bone density, and adjustments to gravity.
To address these issues, they will undergo a 45-day rehabilitation program aimed at helping their bodies readapt.
Living aboard the International Space Station can affect various aspects of an astronaut’s physical health, including aerobic capacity, muscle strength, endurance, balance, coordination, bone density, and flexibility.
These changes are caused by microgravity and are similar to the effects seen in individuals on Earth who experience long periods of physical inactivity.
To mitigate these effects, the Astronaut Strength, Conditioning, and Rehabilitation (ASCR) specialists have designed a reconditioning program to address these physical deficits. This program begins on the day the astronauts land and involves two hours of exercise daily, seven days a week, over the course of 45 days.
It is tailored to meet the specific needs of each astronaut as they work to restore their physical fitness.
