NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams Begins Return Journey Home on…

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams undocked from the ISS at 10:35 am IST, beginning a 17-hour return trip to Earth aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft. Following a prior setback with the Boeing Starliner, the duo’s expected splashdown off Florida is scheduled for 3:27 am IST on Wednesday. Prime Minister Modi expressed support for Williams, marking her significant contributions to space exploration.

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has commenced her journey back to Earth aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, having successfully undocked from the International Space Station (ISS) at 10:35 am IST. This event marks the beginning of their 17-hour return voyage alongside fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed support for Williams, referring to her as “India’s illustrious daughter” and wishing her a safe return home.

The Crew-9 mission faced challenges when Williams and Wilmore were previously scheduled for a return aboard the Boeing Starliner, which encountered propulsion issues. This rendered the spacecraft unfit for the return trip, necessitating the astronauts to wait on the ISS for another vessel. Their undocking today signifies a pivotal step toward their long-awaited return.

As Williams and Wilmore proceed on their journey, the Dragon spacecraft is expected to splash down off the coast of Florida at approximately 3:27 am IST on Wednesday. Following a hatch closure at 8:15 am IST, the crew remains on course. NASA adjusted the mission schedule, considering possible weather delays later this week, to ensure a seamless transition for the astronauts returning to Earth.

Stay updated with live coverage of the Crew-9 mission and following their return journey as significant milestones continue to be achieved during this operation.

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore’s return journey demonstrates the challenges faced in space travel, notably the issues that led to prolonged stay on the ISS. Their safe undocking from the ISS heralds the final phase of the Crew-9 mission, with an anticipated splashdown that underscores ongoing NASA and SpaceX collaboration. Prime Minister Modi’s supportive message highlights the significance of this mission for India and emphasizes the international cooperation in space exploration.

Original Source: indianexpress.com