From the spacewalk to the commander, the NASA journey of Sunita williams
News Update March 20, 2025 06:24 AM

Obnews Science Desk: Sunita “Suna” Williams is an Indian -origin American astronaut, who has made a prestigious career in NASA. His adventure missions and achievements gave him an important place in the world of space science. Let's take a detailed look at his career.

Early life and entry into NASA

Sunita Williams was born on 19 September 1965 in Ohio, America. Sunita of Indian and Slovenian origin had a keen interest in science and space. He graduated in physics from the US Naval Academy and then a Masters degree in Engineering Management from Florida Institute of Technology.

In 1987, she joined the US Navy and became part of several missions as a Test pilot. In 1998, he was chosen as an astronaut by NASA and began his space career.

Training in NASA and first space trip

Training of NASA's astronauts requires physical and mental tests as well as high technical efficiency. Sunita excelled in various simulation, microgravity training and robotics operations.

First Mission (STS-116, 2006-07)

Sunita Williams' first space trip began on 10 December 2006, when she left for the International Space Station (ISS) via Space Shuttle Discovery. In this mission, he worked on ISS for 195 days, which was a record for a female astronaut.

Important achievements

  • The longest space travel woman: The STS-116 set a record of staying in space for 195 days during the mission.
  • Spacewalk record: He launched a total of 7 spacewalks, with a total time of 50 hours 40 minutes. This was an important achievement for any female astronaut.
  • Running Marathon in Space: In 2007, Sunita Williams completed the Boston Marathon while in space, which he completed by running on a treadmill.

Second Mission (Expedition 32/33, 2012)

Sunita took her second space trip on 15 July 2012, when she arrived in ISS from Soyuz TMA-05M vehicle. In this mission, she spent 127 days in space and became the second woman to become the commander of ISS.

During this mission, he:

  • He led many important scientific experiments.
  • Completed additional 3 spacewalks in space.
  • Repair and technical improvements in the outer parts of the ISS.

Third Mission (Boeing Starliner, 2024)

On 5 June 2024, Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmor Boeing left for ISS riding in Starlineer Calipso. However, this mission unexpectedly became 9 months (288 days) long due to technical malfunctions, a rare phenomenon in the history of NASA.

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Honor and inspiration

Sunita Williams received several awards for her remarkable contribution, including:

  • NASA Space Flight Medal
  • NASA Dysinged Service Medal
  • Lajan of merit
  • Padma Bhushan (by Government of India)

His journey is not only a milestone in science and space research, but they are also an inspiration for young people, especially women of women and people of Indian origin.

Travel to NASA

Sunita Williams' visit to NASA is a story of determination, science and courage. Their achievements have proved to be a milestone in the field of space exploration and they will remain a source of inspiration for generations to come.

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