After a Long Wait of 9 Months ‘Space Fairy’ Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore Return to Earth; Stayed in Space for 287 Days Due to Starliner Malfunction

America Makes History in Space Again

America has created history once again in space exploration. On June 5, 2024, the Boeing Starliner spacecraft carried astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore to the International Space Station (ISS) for an eight-day mission. After spending more than nine months in space due to unexpected delays, they finally returned safely to Earth on Wednesday morning (3:27 AM IST).

Along with them, two other crew members, Roscosmos astronaut Alexander Gortunov and NASA astronaut Nick Hague, also came back. Their spacecraft, SpaceX’s Dragon capsule, landed safely in the ocean near Florida. NASA scientists were overjoyed at their safe return. Sunita Williams’ safe landing brought immense happiness and relief to Indians worldwide.

Why Was Their Return Delayed?

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore’s return was delayed due to technical issues with the Boeing Starliner capsule. A thruster malfunction caused by a faulty Teflon seal made the spacecraft unsafe, leading to multiple postponements. Their mission, initially set for March 2025, was finally rescheduled based on weather conditions, and they safely returned this week.

Post-Landing Challenges

After 9 months in space, they need time to adjust to Earth’s gravity. They are transported on stretchers due to potential dizziness and blood pressure drops. Medical supervision will continue for a few days as they recover.

Extra Pay for Overtime in Space?

NASA astronauts, like Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, do not receive overtime pay. Former astronaut Cady Coleman confirmed they get only their regular salary.

NASA covers their travel, accommodation, and food, along with a small daily allowance. Coleman received about $636 (Rs. 55,000) for her 159-day mission in 2010-11, roughly $4 per day. Based on this, Williams and Wilmore, spending 287+ days in space, will get at least $1,148 (Rs. 1 lakh) extra.

Sunita Williams: Second-Longest Time in Space

Among NASA astronauts, Sunita Williams holds the second-highest record for total days spent in space. She has spent a total of 608 days in space.

The astronaut with the highest record is Peggy Whitson, who spent 675 days in space. Other astronauts with long-duration space missions include:

• Sunita Williams – 608 days
• Jeff Williams – 534 days
• Mark Vande Hei – 523 days
• Scott Kelly – 520 days

On a single mission, Frank Rubio spent 371 days at the International Space Station, followed by Mark Vande Hei (355 days), Scott Kelly (340 days), and Christina Koch (328 days).

Sunita Williams’ Connection to India

Sunita Williams was born on September 19, 1965, in Euclid, Ohio, to Deepak and Bonnie Pandya. Her roots trace back to Jhulasan village, Gujarat.

Her father, Dr. Deepak Pandya, a neuroscientist, moved to the U.S. in 1957. Despite living in America, she remains connected to Jhulasan (population 7,000). The village honors her with a library named after her grandfather and father, and locals take pride in her achievements.

Concern for Sunita Williams’ Safety

After news spread that Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore were stranded in space, the people of Jhulasan started praying for her safe return. Many villagers have been lighting lamps continuously as a symbol of hope and protection for her well-being.