Sunita Williams may not be able to walk after returning to Earth but that is not biggest concern

After Sunita Williams sets foot on Earth again, she might not be able to walk immediately. After spending months in space, her body will need time to readjust to gravity. However, her biggest challenge is not regaining mobility but surviving the perilous journey back home.

The Struggles of Re-Entry

Re-entering Earth's atmosphere is one of the most dangerous phases of any space mission. Williams is scheduled to return aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule on March 19, 2025, at approximately 3:27 am IST on Wednesday.

As the spacecraft plummets through the atmosphere at thousands of kilometres per hour, it will face extreme temperatures exceeding 1,600°C due to friction. A small miscalculation could prove fatal.

Her family is deeply concerned. ‘We are worried about her fly back and the potential challenges she may face during touchdown,’ said her cousin, Dinesh Rawal to PTI. ‘The journey back to Earth is always fraught with danger, and we can't help but feel anxious about Sunita's safety,’ he added.

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Delayed Return and Extended Stay

Williams embarked on her mission aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft on June 5, 2024. Initially planned as an eight-day test flight, it turned into a nine-month ordeal due to critical issues with the Starliner capsule, including helium leaks and thruster malfunctions.

Unable to return on Starliner, NASA delayed her departure until a safe alternative was available, eventually scheduling her return aboard the Crew Dragon.

Physical Challenges After Landing

Once she lands, Williams' body will undergo intense changes. Months in microgravity weaken muscles, reduce bone density, and disrupt the vestibular system, which controls balance. 

Astronauts often experience dizziness, disorientation, and an inability to walk immediately after returning to gravity.

Additionally, her recovery will involve extensive rehabilitation, including physical therapy, muscle training, and cardiovascular adjustments. NASA will closely monitor her health through medical tests, assessing her bone density, muscle mass, and neurological function.

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A Risk Worth Taking

Despite the physical toll, Williams’ extended stay has provided invaluable scientific data. She and her team conducted over 150 experiments over 270 days, contributing to research that will benefit future deep-space missions.