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A Long-Awaited Return from the International Space Station
On 18 March 2025, NASA astronauts Sunita ‘Suni’ Williams and Barry ‘Butch’ Wilmore led the astronauts’ return to Earth, splashing down off the Florida coast in a SpaceX Dragon after a nine-month stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Joined by Nick Hague and Aleksandr Gorbunov of Crew-9, their SpaceX return to Earth ended a saga that gripped the world. This article explores how astronauts return to Earth, their health challenges, and more.
SpaceX Returns to Earth. Dolphins Greet the Crew
The Crew-9 SpaceX Dragon, Freedom, landed in the Gulf of Mexico near Tallahassee at 5:57 pm ET on 18 March 2025, after a 17-hour descent. Dolphins playfully circled the capsule—an enchanting twist to the astronauts’ return to Earth. Parachutes slowed it from 17,000 mph, proving SpaceX returns to Earth are a marvel of precision.
Launched 5 June 2024 on Boeing’s Starliner for an eight-day test, Williams and Wilmore faced delays due to helium leaks and thruster issues. NASA delayed the Starliner astronauts’ return to Earth again, opting for SpaceX instead, stretching their mission to 288 days—one of NASA’s longest.
How Do Astronauts Return to Earth?
After undocking from the ISS at 1:05 am ET on 18 March, the Dragon re-entered the atmosphere, enduring intense heat. Parachutes ensured a soft splashdown, and recovery teams retrieved the crew.
Did the Two Astronauts Get Back to Earth?
Yes, Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore are back as of 18 March 2025. Were stranded astronauts back on Earth? No—they were never stranded, just delayed. NASA integrated them into ISS research, debunking myths as they returned via SpaceX.
Who Are the Astronauts Returning to Earth?
Sunita ‘Suni’ Williams
With 608 days in space, she’s second only to Peggy Whitson among Americans, breaking female spacewalking records.
Barry ‘Butch’ Wilmore
Ex-Navy pilot and Starliner commander.
Nick Hague
Second ISS trip with Crew-9.
Aleksandr Gorbunov
Roscosmos cosmonaut.
Their smiles lit up this space station astronauts’ return to Earth.
What Happens to Astronauts’ Bodies When They Return?
Astronauts return to Earth health issues are real after 288 days in microgravity. Bones lose 1-2% density monthly, muscles weaken, and fluid shifts affect vision. Williams and Wilmore used stretchers post-splashdown—not from illness, but to ease gravity’s pull. Dizziness and nausea fade after weeks, offering data for future missions. Discover more fascinating science stories in our Science & Environment 🌍section.
Astronauts Return to Earth Live Video Highlights
Searching ‘astronauts return to earth live’? NASA and SpaceX streamed the fiery re-entry and splashdown. The ‘astronauts return video’ of dolphins and Wilmore’s grin went viral. Find it on NASA’s site or Sky News, capturing this space station astronauts’ return to Earth.
Sunita Williams’ Return to Earth and Elon Musk’s Role
‘Sunita Williams return to Earth’ trends thanks to her record-breaking stint. ‘Astronauts return Elon Musk’ ties to SpaceX’s rescue role. NASA set the timeline in September 2024, despite Trump’s claims. Musk’s tech ensured the astronaut return to Earth succeeded.
Have Astronauts Floated Away in Space?
No—tethers and protocols kept Williams and Wilmore safe during spacewalks. This myth doesn’t hold up when astronauts come back to Earth.
How Much Do Astronauts Get Paid?
NASA pays £62,000-£125,000 annually (2025 adjusted range, converted to GBP), based on rank. No bonuses for Williams and Wilmore—just pride in their work.
Space Station Astronauts Back on Earth Why It’s Big
This astronauts’ return to Earth showcases NASA’s adaptability and SpaceX’s rise, despite Starliner’s woes. With dolphins, drama, and science, it’s a tale for WigTea readers.