Before-and-after photos of NASA astronauts who spent nine months in space reveal shocking physical changes, highlighting the toll of extended space missions on the human body.

The images, released after the astronauts’ return to Earth, show significant muscle loss, facial bloating, and weakened posture—common effects of prolonged exposure to microgravity. Their time in space resulted in bone density reduction, cardiovascular strain, and fluid shifts, causing noticeable swelling in the face and thinning of the legs.

These astronauts were part of a mission that kept them in orbit for an unusually long duration due to delays in their scheduled return. While space agencies monitor these health risks, the striking visual differences emphasize the challenges of long-term space travel, especially as NASA prepares for future missions to Mars.

Despite months of rehabilitation ahead, the astronauts expressed excitement about being back on solid ground. Their transformation serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices and resilience required for human space exploration.