Sunita Williams Becomes ISS Commander, Rescue Mission This Week

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has officially taken command of the International Space Station (ISS) during her extended mission aboard the orbiting laboratory. This marks her second time leading the ISS, following her previous command during Expedition 33 in 2012.
Williams, alongside fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, has been aboard the ISS since June 5, 2024, after launching aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft for its first crewed flight. Originally, their mission was planned to last only eight days; however, technical issues with the Starliner have delayed their return until February 2025.
Despite the mission extension, Williams expressed her excitement about being in space, stating, “This is my happy place. I love being up here in space.”
Both astronauts have adapted to their extended stay by performing routine maintenance and conducting scientific experiments aboard the ISS.
Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko officially handed over command of the station to Williams, and he is set to return to Earth on Monday.
As the ISS commander, Williams will oversee various research operations and activities. Her leadership comes at a critical time, as NASA plans to launch a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft soon for a rescue mission to bring her and Wilmore back safely.
Williams has made history as an astronaut, holding records for the most spacewalks by a woman and spending over 322 days in space across multiple missions. Her extensive experience and expertise will be vital as she leads the current crew aboard the ISS.
The ISS continues to be a hub of international collaboration in space exploration and scientific research. With Williams in command, the station will carry on its important work until her eventual return to Earth next year.
The upcoming rescue mission underscores the commitment to human spaceflight and the challenges that come with it, further solidifying Williams’ legacy in space exploration.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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