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Hidden effects of long-term space missions
The Mercury
|March 25, 2025
WHEN NASA astronaut Sunita Williams returned to Earth a few days ago after spending 288 dadys in space , her transformation was striking.
The 59-year-old, who had set off on what was meant to be an eight-day mission, looked noticeably older and frailer upon her return.
Her dark hair had turned completely white - and this wasn’t just a cosmetic change - her body had undergone a level of strain equivalent to years of ageing.
Spending nearly nine months in orbit takes an extreme toll on both the body and brain.
Astronauts face physical and physiological changes that mimic accelerated ageing, and Williams’ unexpected extended stay serves as a stark reminder of the harsh realities of space travel.
One of the most noticeable changes was her hair. While missing nine months of hair appointments is something many can relate to, the rapid whitening of Williams’ hair could be due to more than just skipping salon visits.
This story is from the March 25, 2025 edition of The Mercury.
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