Sunita Williams has been conducting over 900 hours of research at the International Space Station (ISS), working on more than 150 scientific experiments. Her work includes studying how microbes grow in microgravity, testing water recovery systems, and developing technology to produce nutrients for long-term space missions.
Maintaining and Upgrading the ISS
Sunita has played a crucial role in ISS maintenance, helping replace old instruments, cleaning the station, and managing waste disposal. She has also assisted in upgrading key systems to ensure the station remains fully functional.
Performing Spacewalks and Training
As the record-holder for the most spacewalk hours among female astronauts, Sunita has spent over 62 hours outside the ISS. She recently completed spacewalks on January 16 and January 30, spending hours upgrading ISS systems. She also follows a strict exercise routine to maintain muscle strength in microgravity.
Growing Food in Space
Sunita Williams has been involved in space gardening, studying how plants grow in microgravity. Her research on lettuce plants could help scientists develop methods for growing fresh food on future space missions.
Engaging with People on Earth
Despite her extended mission, Sunita has stayed connected with Earth. She sent festive greetings for Diwali, Christmas, and New Year, interacted with students from a school named after her, and even wished the 2024 Paris Olympics athletes good luck from space.
Piloting the Starliner and Setting Records
Sunita Williams piloted Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, becoming the first woman to test a space capsule. Once she returns, she will set another record as the first astronaut to have flown in four different space capsules—Space Shuttle, Soyuz, Boeing Starliner, and SpaceX Crew Dragon.
Awaiting Her Return to Earth
Initially planned as an eight-day mission, Sunita Williams’ stay has extended due to technical issues with the Starliner. She is expected to return to Earth in the coming weeks, marking another milestone in her extraordinary space career.
