Retired NASA astronaut Susan Kilrain discusses the crew’s return and what they’ll experience once back on Earth.
As the world eagerly awaits the return of the SpaceX Crew Dragon astronauts, retired NASA astronaut Susan Kilrain reflects on her own experiences of returning from space and gives us a glimpse into what the crew will experience once they are back on Earth.
Kilrain, who spent over 500 hours in space and completed two missions on the Space Shuttle, knows all too well the physical and emotional challenges that come with returning from space. She has also been closely following the journey of the SpaceX Crew Dragon astronauts – NASA astronauts Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley – and is excited to see them return to their families and the comforts of Earth.
“Coming back to Earth after being in space is a surreal experience,” says Kilrain. “You are so used to the weightlessness and the view of the Earth from above, and suddenly you are back in a gravity-filled environment and everything feels heavy. It takes some time for your body to adjust.”
The SpaceX Crew Dragon astronauts have been in orbit for over two months, conducting experiments and maintenance tasks on the International Space Station (ISS). During this time, they have been living and working in a microgravity environment, where the effects of gravity are significantly reduced. This has a profound impact on the body, and the astronauts have been carefully monitored to ensure their health and well-being.
“Living in space is a unique experience, and the body undergoes many changes,” explains Kilrain. “For example, without the constant pull of gravity, the spine elongates, and the muscles and bones weaken. Astronauts also experience fluid shifts, which can cause their faces to look puffy and their legs to feel swollen. It’s all part of the adaptation process.”
But the physical changes are just one aspect of returning from space. The psychological effects can be just as significant. Kilrain recalls her own emotional rollercoaster when she returned from her first mission.
“It’s a strange feeling to be back on Earth after seeing it from a completely different perspective,” she says. “You realize how small and fragile our planet is, and it really puts things into perspective. You also miss the camaraderie and sense of purpose that comes with being on a mission. It can be overwhelming at times.”
The SpaceX Crew Dragon astronauts have been away from their families for a long time, and Kilrain knows firsthand the excitement and emotions that come with being reunited with loved ones.
“I remember seeing my family for the first time after my mission, and it was an incredible moment,” she says. “You have so much to catch up on, and it’s a mix of emotions – joy, relief, and a little bit of sadness that the mission is over. But ultimately, it’s an experience that brings you closer together.”
Kilrain also emphasizes the importance of the astronauts’ reintegration into society and the support they will receive from NASA.
“Returning from space can be overwhelming, and it’s crucial for the astronauts to have a support system in place,” she says. “NASA provides a lot of resources and support to help with the transition, including debriefings with psychologists and medical check-ups. It’s all part of ensuring the well-being of the astronauts.”
But despite the challenges of returning from space, Kilrain believes that the experience is worth it, and the astronauts will have a newfound appreciation for their home planet.
“Being in space changes you in ways you can’t even imagine,” she says. “You come back with a renewed sense of wonder and appreciation for Earth and all its beauty. It’s a life-changing experience, and I have no doubt that the SpaceX Crew Dragon astronauts will come back with a new perspective on our planet and our place in the universe.”
In conclusion, as the SpaceX Crew Dragon astronauts prepare to return to Earth, retired NASA astronaut Susan Kilrain offers a glimpse into what they will experience. From physical changes to emotional adjustments, returning from space is a unique and challenging journey. But with the support of NASA and their loved ones, the astronauts will soon be back on solid ground, ready to share their incredible experience with the world.