Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has assumed command of the International Space Station (ISS) for the second time. Her previous command was during Expedition 33 in 2012.
Williams, along with astronaut Butch Wilmore, has been aboard the ISS since June 2024. The mission, originally planned for eight days, has been extended to February 2025 due to technical issues with their return spacecraft, Boeing’s Starliner.
The command was transferred to Williams by Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, who returned to Earth recently. As the new commander, Williams will oversee operations and scientific research on the ISS.
Despite the unplanned extension, Williams has expressed her enjoyment of being in space. Both astronauts have adjusted to the extended stay, focusing on maintenance and experiments aboard the ISS.
NASA is preparing a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft for a rescue mission to return Williams and Wilmore to Earth. The launch of the rescue mission is scheduled soon, ensuring their safe return in 2025.
Throughout her career, Williams has set records, including the most spacewalks by a female astronaut. She has logged over 322 days in space, across multiple missions, bringing extensive experience to her current role.
Under Williams’ leadership, the ISS will continue its international research and collaboration efforts. The station remains a key platform for scientific research in space until her return next year.