The science behind Sunita Williams’ safe return to Earth
Veteran astronaut Sunita Williams returns to Earth after spending nearly nine months in space. She, along with NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore, successfully landed off the coast of Florida aboard the SpaceX Dragon Freedom spacecraft.
Unexpectedly Long Stay in Space
Williams and Wilmore initially traveled to the International Space Station (ISS) on June 5, 2024, using Boeing’s Starliner capsule. The mission was originally planned for eight days, but technical issues with the spacecraft’s propulsion system led to an extended stay.
Safe Ocean Landing
The SpaceX Dragon Freedom capsule touched down in the Atlantic Ocean at 3:27 AM IST. After landing, recovery teams lifted the spacecraft onto a ship, where medical teams assisted the astronauts. Williams, smiling, waved at the crew as she readjusted to Earth’s gravity.
Sunita Willams returned to Earth after 9 months and 14 days when her feet touched the ground
Zero gravity in space makes the body feel like it is floating in the air. A person who has stayed there for such a long time takes a lot of time to get used to gravity, i.e. to walk… pic.twitter.com/MznF9lfdn6— Cyber Huntss (@Cyber_Huntss) March 19, 2025
Dolphins at the Landing Site
A unique sight awaited the astronauts as a pod of dolphins was spotted near the splashdown area. After completing a 17-hour return journey from the ISS, Williams and Wilmore will now undergo a 45-day rehabilitation program in Houston to help their bodies recover from prolonged space travel.
In India Williams’ ancestral village, Jhulasan in Gujarat, erupted in celebration upon hearing of her safe return. Residents performed prayers and rituals expressing joy and gratitude for her successful mission. With Williams and Wilmore back, Crew-10 has taken charge of ISS operations, ensuring ongoing missions continue smoothly. SpaceX CEO Elon Musk congratulated the NASA and SpaceX teams for another successful astronaut return. He also thanked the U.S. government for prioritizing the mission’s success.
Williams’ return marks another achievement in space exploration, showcasing international collaboration and technological advancements in human spaceflight.
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