Side effects Artemis II astronauts might suffer once they return to Earth

After returning from space, astronauts may look far from heroic at first. Days in microgravity weaken muscles and disrupt balance, making standing or walking feel surprisingly difficult. Medical teams are there right away because the body needs time to adjust to Earth’s gravity again.

Recovery starts almost immediately with guided movement, monitoring, and exercise. Even experienced astronauts say Earth can feel strange at first, but with time and rehab, they regain their strength after an extraordinary journey.