Starliner astronauts are in good health and maintaining their weight.
Different media outlets have reported concerns about the "haggard" appearance of NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore.
Recently, NASA has clarified the health and physical condition of astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, who are currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS), following a series of speculations spread by some tabloids. Reports suggested that these astronauts appeared "emaciated" and might be worrying about losing weight, but the space agency emphasized that all crew members are in excellent health.
Williams, in particular, has addressed the rumors in interviews, stating that her weight has remained the same as when she arrived at the station. The astronaut explained that her body has undergone changes, primarily due to strength training, which is common among astronauts to combat muscle atrophy resulting from life in microgravity. In this regard, she noted an increase in the muscle mass of her legs and buttocks thanks to weightlifting.
On the other hand, Wilmore has also been under media scrutiny, but NASA's chief medical officer, James D. Polk, stated that both he and Williams have undergone regular medical evaluations and that the crew’s health is exceptional. Polk highlighted that there is no concern for the health of either astronaut.
Additionally, life in space causes specific physical changes. Without gravity, bodily fluids tend to accumulate in the upper body, sometimes leading to a swollen appearance. It is also common for astronauts to experience appetite issues due to the monotony of their diet. However, there is no evidence suggesting that Williams or Wilmore are suffering from these effects beyond what is typical.
Both astronauts were part of the first crewed test flight of the Boeing Starliner spacecraft and have been on the ISS since June, with plans to return to Earth next February in a SpaceX Dragon capsule, along with other members of the Crew-9 mission.
