Sunita Williams returns to earth After 286 days in space

Indian-origin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams returned to Earth today, marking the conclusion of an exceptional nine-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Williams, NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore, Nick Hague, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, descended into the ocean off the coast of Tallahassee at 5:57 AM IST (5:57 PM EST on March 18), welcomed by an unexpected display of dolphins as recovery workers approached.

Williams exited the Dragon capsule with a broad smile, gesturing cheerfully to cameras and support personnel.

After 286 days in space—significantly surpassing her intended eight-day mission—she exhibited excellent spirits despite the health repercussions of prolonged microgravity. She and Wilmore, who embarked on Boeing’s Starliner on June 5, 2024, were marooned on the ISS due to propulsion complications with their initial ship, necessitating NASA to facilitate their return through SpaceX’s Crew-9 mission.

Modi’s letter

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated the event with a sincere letter, sent earlier this week, referring to Williams as “an illustrious daughter of India” and extending an invitation for her to visit the country after her mission.

“Despite the vast distance, you remain dear to our hearts,” he wrote.

In her ancestral town of Jhulasan, Gujarat, the inhabitants celebrated exuberantly, igniting firecrackers and reciting prayers while observing the live landing at a local temple.

Williams’ family, addressing the media, announced preparations for a reunion that will include her preferred Gujarati cuisine, Dal Dhokli, following her completion of a 45-day recovery phase to acclimate to Earth’s gravity.

The landing concludes a significant chapter for Williams and Wilmore, whose mission assessed their fortitude in the face of technological challenges. Her return underscores her position as a global icon and a source of national pride for India.