Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore safely returned to Earth on March 19 after almost nine months in space. They came back in a SpaceX Dragon capsule from the International Space Station (ISS), joined by two other astronauts. Once they arrived, NASA took them to the Johnson Space Center in Houston. They were seen before the public for the first time in 12 days.
NASA organized a press conference in which Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore, and Nick Hague spoke to the media. Sunita reassured everyone that she is fine.
Sunita Williams Open to Another ISS Mission
In response to questions about possible future missions, Sunita Williams replied that she would welcome the opportunity to go back to the ISS if offered the chance. She spoke highly of Boeing's Starliner, saying it is a competent spacecraft but that there are certain technical issues that must be worked out.
Butch Wilmore highlighted NASA and Boeing's dedication to resolving the technical issues of the Starliner. He guaranteed that all teams are working diligently to solve the issues and make future missions safe.
Sunita Williams Expresses Gratitude to NASA
Sunita thanked NASA crew members for their assistance during her mission. She attributed her earlier training to equip her for space travel and the mission control crews for helping her recover safely and undergo rehabilitation.
She disclosed that she has completed three miles of running after returning to Earth, demonstrating her physical recuperation. Sunita also appreciated her trainers for assisting her in gaining strength and normalcy.
During her ISS visit, she performed several scientific experiments and underwent extensive training as part of her mission responsibilities.
Wilmore Discusses Challenges of Space Travel
Wilmore admitted to concerns regarding their health in space and described how the body undergoes changes upon returning to Earth. He assured that NASA support teams are working to assist them in adapting and recovering their physical strength.
He also commended NASA and Boeing's work on solving technical problems, such as helium leaks, on the Starliner. He referred to this mission as an important milestone in NASA's devotion to astronaut safety.
The Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore's Journey
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore went up to the ISS on June 5, 2024, aboard Boeing's Starliner. Originally designed to be an eight-day flight, they could not come back home as some technical glitches took place in the Starliner.
Whereas the Starliner brought back a spaceship, Sunita and Wilmore stayed in the ISS. It took many months and subsequent checks for they were safely escorted back home in SpaceX's Crew Dragon.
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