Here's how long it will take astronauts' bodies, stuck in space for 9 months, to readjust to Earth

For NASA astronauts Barry "Butch" Wilmore and Sunita "Suni" Williams, just returned to Earth, the hardest part begins now.

After being stuck for a long time aboard the ISS, the two NASA astronauts, "Butch" Wilmore and "Suni" Williams, were finally repatriated to Earth on Tuesday, March 18, after spending 278 days in space. However, the most difficult phase lies ahead for them.

A prolonged stay in space has consequences on the human body, necessitating a lengthy readjustment period. They will undergo a physical rehabilitation program estimated to last 45 days, focusing on basic exercises to regain walking ability and muscle strength.

Both astronauts will face challenges due to muscle mass and bone density loss, as well as potential disruptions in immune and cardiovascular systems. But recovery should progress well in the coming weeks.