Sunita Williams Return HIGHLIGHTS: NASA's Dragon Spacecraft Splashes Down Safely, Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore Back On Earth After 9 Months
Sunita Williams Return To Earth HIGHLIGHTS: NASA astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore, and Nick Hague, along with Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, have safely returned to Earth aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. They splashed down off the coast of Florida at 3:27 AM IST, March 19, marking the end of an unexpected but historic mission.
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File Photo Sunita Williams Return To Earth HIGHLIGHTS: NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have safely returned to Earth on Wednesday, March 19, after an extended 286-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Originally slated for a brief stay, their mission was prolonged due to technical issues with Boeing's Starliner capsule, necessitating their extended presence on the ISS.
The astronauts, along with NASA's Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, returned aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule, Freedom, which splashed down off the coast of Florida at 3:27 AM IST.
Stay Tuned To ZEE News For Latest Updates...
Sunita Williams Return Live Updates: White House Reacts As NASA Astronaut Lands On Earth
Following the safe return of Indian Origin NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore after nine months, the White House, in a post on X, said, "PROMISE MADE, PROMISE KEPT: President Trump pledged to rescue the astronauts stranded in space for nine months. Today, they safely splashed down in the Gulf of America, thanks to Elon Musk, SpaceX, and NASA!".
PROMISE MADE, PROMISE KEPT: President Trump pledged to rescue the astronauts stranded in space for nine months.
Today, they safely splashed down in the Gulf of America, thanks to @ElonMusk, @SpaceX, and @NASA! pic.twitter.com/r01hVWAC8S
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) March 18, 2025
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Williams' Home Village Celebrates Her Safe Return
Gujarat: Sunita Williams' home village celebrates her safe return to Earth with Aarti and prayers
Gujarat: Sunita Williams' home village celebrates her safe return to Earth with Aarti and prayers
Read @ANI Story | https://t.co/LL6LZrTVPr #SunitaWilliams #Gujarat #NASA pic.twitter.com/p7Ag4qOIbu
— ANI Digital (@ani_digital) March 18, 2025
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Butch Wilmore Exits The Capsule Safely
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Being stranded at the ISS for 9 months, Sunita Williams is back on Earth with a smile
Today, NASA's SpaceX Crew-9 - astronauts Nick Hague, Butch Wilmore, Sunita Williams, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov returned to Earth after the successful Splashdown of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft carrying Crew-9 at Tallahassee, Florida. Sunita Williams was stranded at the International Space Station for 9 months along with Butch Wilmore
#WATCH | Being stranded at the International Space Station for 9 months, Sunita Williams is back on Earth with a smile
Today, NASA's SpaceX Crew-9 - astronauts Nick Hague, Butch Wilmore, Sunita Williams, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov returned to Earth after the… pic.twitter.com/mdZIQTG4SN
— ANI (@ANI) March 18, 2025
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: Welcome Home Sunita Williams!
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: First Glimpses Of Sunita Williams After She Lands On Earth
Sunita Williams was all smiles as she waved for the cameras. Have a look!
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: First Visuals Of Crew9 Back On Earth
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Side Hatch Opened
Sunita Williams Return Live Updates: Astronauts Prepare For Egress
The four astronauts are inside the capsule, safe and healthy, as they prepare for egress.
Sunita Williams Return Live Updates: Dragon Freedom Successfully Recovered From Water
Watch the LIVE stream here:
Sunita Williams Return To Earth LIVE: Recovery Operations Begin
With a safe splashdown, SpaceX recovery teams have reached on site and the vehicle will soon be lifted on the recovery vessel.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: SpaceX Shares Warm Wishes
"Splashdown of Dragon confirmed – welcome back to Earth, Nick, Suni, Butch, and Aleks!"
Splashdown of Dragon confirmed – welcome back to Earth, Nick, Suni, Butch, and Aleks! pic.twitter.com/M4RZ6UYsQ2
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) March 18, 2025
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: NASA Shares First Glimpses
Splashdown confirmed! #Crew9 is now back on Earth in their @SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. pic.twitter.com/G5tVyqFbAu
— NASA (@NASA) March 18, 2025
Sunita Williams Return Live Updates: Dragon re-enters Earth’s atmosphere, parachutes deployed for landing
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: Watch Live Stream Here
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Signal Acquired, All Is Well
Signal acquired by SpaceX with the Crew-9 as they enter Earth's atmosphere safely. The tracking cameras have been activated as they look for the movement of the Dragon spacecraft toward the splashdown site off the Coast of Florida.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: Dragon Re-Enters Atmosphere, Communication Blackout Begins
The Dragon spacecraft has entered Earth’s atmosphere, aligning perfectly with its splashdown trajectory. Due to intense plasma buildup, a temporary communication blackout is now in effect. Dragon will continue its autonomous descent and reconnect with SpaceX once it clears this critical phase.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Dragon ready for re-entry into Earth's atmosphere
Dragon spacecraft is now aligned for re-entry, with Freedom autonomously navigating above Earth in preparation for a safe splashdown off Florida’s coast.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Final Burn Complete: Dragon on Course for Earth
The Dragon spacecraft has successfully completed its final burn, aligning perfectly with its trajectory for a safe return to Earth.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: Spacecraft on Return Journey, Adjusting Course for Safe Re-Entry, Watch
The spacecraft is now making its way back to Earth, firing its thrusters to fine-tune its trajectory for a smooth and safe re-entry. Watch here:
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: Draco Thrusters Fired As Dragon Begins Final Descent
The Dragon spacecraft has ignited its Draco thrusters, initiating its de-orbit burn and setting course for splashdown. The vehicle is now on its final trajectory, preparing to re-enter Earth's atmosphere.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: As World Awaits Sunita Williams’ Return, Kalpana Chawla’s Legacy is Remembered
As the world waits for the safe return of Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, we take a look and remember Kalpana Chawla - the Indian American astronaut who was killed in 2003 Space Shuttle Columbia.
Coinciding with her birthday, Chawla is honored for her contributions to space exploration. She and her crew perished during Columbia’s re-entry, just 16 minutes before landing, after successfully completing a 16-day science and research mission. Aboard STS-107 from January 16 to February 1, 2003, the crew conducted nearly 80 experiments, leaving behind an inspiring legacy in space science.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: Dragon Jettisons Trunk, Sets Course for De-Orbit Burn
The Dragon spacecraft has successfully discarded its trunk and is now aligned for the de-orbit burn, guiding it toward the splashdown site in the Atlantic Ocean.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: Dragon's Heat Shield Exposed After Key Separation
The Dragon spacecraft has successfully jettisoned its trunk, unveiling the crucial heat shield that will protect astronauts during re-entry into Earth's atmosphere.
All systems remain on track for a safe and controlled descent.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Here’s Footage From Mission Control
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Live Footage From Inside The Capsule Now Streaming
Watch here:
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Astronauts Conduct Final Leak Checks Before Re-Entry
Astronauts have completed thorough leak checks on their spacesuits as they get ready to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere.
Sunita Williams Returns To Earth LIVE Updates: Where To Watch Live
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who faced an extended stay at the International Space Station, are returning to Earth aboard a SpaceX capsule along with two other astronauts. The capsule undocked on Tuesday and is expected to splash down off the Florida coast around 3:30 AM IST. Watch the live stream here:
Sunita Williams Return LIVE
For those just tuning in, NASA astronauts are set to splash down off Florida's coast at 3:27 AM IST.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: NASA Shares Dragon's Trajectory
Sharing the image on X, NASA wrote, "Crew9 will be difficult to spot in the daytime as it reenters Earth's atmosphere, but if you want to keep an eye out for @SpaceX's Dragon as it heads home today, we have the map for you."
#Crew9 will be difficult to spot in the daytime as it reenters Earth's atmosphere, but if you want to keep an eye out for @SpaceX's Dragon as it heads home today, we have the map for you. pic.twitter.com/dGmSWXbOyv
— NASA (@NASA) March 18, 2025
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: Crew Dragon Sheds Excess Fuel
The Crew Dragon has just completed a burn to release unneeded propellant, ensuring a smooth re-entry into Earth's atmosphere.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Visualizing The Return Journey
A SpaceX graphic illustrates the final steps the Dragon capsule will take to safely splash down with the four astronauts on board.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: What She Said About Returning To Earth
"The toughest part is that people on the ground don’t know exactly when we’ll be back. It’s been more of a rollercoaster for them than for us," said Sunita Williams during a press conference from the Space Station. She reassured everyone that they "will return" and are not stranded in space.
Sunita Williams Return Live Update: NASA To Resume Live Coverage Of Crew-9's Return To Earth Within An Hour
NASA will restart its live coverage of the SpaceX Crew-9 mission’s return to Earth at 2:15 am IST. The crew includes Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams, American astronaut Butch Wilmore, NASA’s Nick Hague, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov.
Williams and Wilmore remained stranded in space for nine months after their return was delayed due to technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner, which transported them to space on June 5 last year.
According to NASA, the spacecraft will execute a deorbit burn at 2:41 am IST, allowing it to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere. The splashdown is scheduled to occur 44 minutes later, at 3:27 am, off the Florida coast.
Sunita Williams Return Live Updates: What Health Challenges Await NASA Astronauts?
As astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore prepare to return to Earth after nine months aboard the ISS, experts warn of potential health risks.
Astrophysicist RC Kapoor explained to news agency PTI that prolonged exposure to microgravity weakens the body. "When you stay long enough in space, you are facing microgravity all the time because the ISS is continuously orbiting the Earth," he said.
He highlighted the effects of weightlessness. "Muscular atrophy sets in, and bone density declines. On Earth, our bodies constantly work against gravity, which keeps us strong. In space, that resistance is absent."
Williams and Wilmore, who traveled on Boeing’s Starliner, will undergo medical tests post-landing to assess the impact of their extended stay in space.
VIDEO | As Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore prepare to return to earth after a nine-month stay at the International Space Station, Astrophysicist RC Kapoor elaborates on probable health challenges faced by astronauts who stay for a long time in space.
Kapoor explained to PTI,… pic.twitter.com/0xCtxQSQp8
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 18, 2025
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Jitendra Singh Calls Williams 'Daughter Of India'
Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Tuesday hailed NASA astronaut Sunita Williams as a 'daughter of India' as she prepares to return to Earth after spending nearly nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS) alongside Butch Wilmore.
Singh emphasised the country's pride in her achievements and expressed hopes for her safe return.
“...She (Sunita Williams), being a daughter of India, has made the entire world proud...She has successfully accomplished the task that she was assigned to. While all of us pray for a safe return, we also feel proud of her...A very pleasant coincidence is the fact that today itself, Prime Minister Modi made a statement on Maha Kumbh in the Parliament and incidentally, Sunita also expressed her best wishes for the Kumbh...,” Singh told ANI.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Watch Video When Crew9 Undocked From Space Station
They're on their way! #Crew9 undocked from the @Space_Station at 1:05am ET (0505 UTC). Reentry and splashdown coverage begins on X, YouTube, and NASA+ at 4:45pm ET (2145 UTC) this evening. pic.twitter.com/W3jcoEdjDG
— NASA (@NASA) March 18, 2025
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: 8-Day ISS Mission Turns Into 9-Month Stay, Return Hours Away
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who arrived at the International Space Station (ISS) in June 2024 for an eight-day test mission aboard Boeing’s Starliner, are finally set to return after an extended nine-month stay.
Technical issues with the Starliner spacecraft forced NASA to extend their mission indefinitely. By August 2024, the agency opted to bring them back on a SpaceX capsule instead.
After months of delays, the astronauts are now preparing to return to Earth, marking the conclusion of a mission that was initially expected to last just over a week.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Manushi Chhillar Hails Williams As An Inspiration
Former Miss World 2017, Manushi Chhillar, extended a warm welcome to NASA astronaut Sunita Williams on her return to Earth, calling her an inspiration.
Praising Williams' journey, Chhillar said, "Moments like these define humanity! While we strive for advancements in research and technology, it is our resilience in tough times that truly sets us apart."
Expressing her admiration, she added, "I've always looked up to incredible women like #SunitaWilliams. Welcome back!"
Williams, who spent nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS), has received widespread appreciation for her achievements in space exploration.
Moments like these define humanity! While we make attempts to advance our research and technology, our resilience during difficult times defines us.
Have always looked up to women such as #SunitaWilliams
Welcome back!! pic.twitter.com/HBKNTlbgXc- Manushi Chhillar (@ManushiChhillar) March 17, 2025
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Dinesh Rawal, Cousin Brother Organised 'Yagna' In Gujarat's Ahmedabad | Watch
#WATCH | Dinesh Rawal, Sunita Williams' cousin brother organised 'Yagna' in Gujarat's Ahmedabad, earlier today, for her safe return to Earth.
Stranded in the International Space Station for 9 months, NASA's Boeing Starliner astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore, along… pic.twitter.com/HusGGCsQAF
— ANI (@ANI) March 18, 2025
Sunita Williams Return Live Updates: ‘All Are Happy’ Says Cousin Dinesh Rawal
#WATCH | Ahmedabad, Gujarat | Sunita William's cousin Dinesh Rawal says, "Everyone in the family is praying for the safe arrival of Sunita. All are happy that she is coming back..." https://t.co/CdnaSQlTZM pic.twitter.com/sLogOZ7rOs
— ANI (@ANI) March 18, 2025
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Touchdown On SpaceX’s Dragon After Starliner Issues
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner, will return to Earth on SpaceX’s Dragon after technical issues forced NASA to send the Starliner back uncrewed in August 2024.
The decision came after persistent malfunctions in the Starliner spacecraft, prompting NASA to reassign both astronauts to SpaceX’s Crew-9 mission for their return journey.
Williams and Wilmore had initially been part of the Starliner’s crewed test mission, but safety concerns led NASA to delay further crewed flights on the vehicle.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Gujarat Village Gears Up for Festive Celebrations
As NASA astronaut Sunita Williams prepares to return to Earth after a nine-month stay at the International Space Station (ISS), her ancestral village in Gujarat is set to mark the occasion with grand celebrations akin to Diwali and Holi.
Residents of Jhulasan in Mehsana district, the hometown of Williams' father, Deepak Pandya, have been praying for her safe return while maintaining an 'Akhand Jyot'—an eternal flame lit in her honor when she embarked on her space mission.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: NASA Astronauts' Return To Earth Live Streaming
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: Sunita Williams Begins Journey Back to Earth; Splashdown Expected After 3 AM
NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Sunita Williams, and Butch Wilmore, along with Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, successfully undocked from the space-facing port of the International Space Station’s Harmony module at 10:35 AM IST on Tuesday, March 18. Aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, the crew has embarked on a 17-hour journey back to Earth, adjusting their trajectory in preparation for atmospheric re-entry.
NASA’s live coverage of the Crew-9 return mission will resume at 2:15 AM IST on Wednesday, March 19, via NASA+, leading up to Dragon’s scheduled splashdown at 3:27 AM IST off the Florida coast. Once the spacecraft lands in the Atlantic Ocean, recovery teams will retrieve the crew and transport them to shore, marking the successful completion of their mission.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Why Is Sunita Returning on SpaceX’s Dragon Instead of Boeing’s Starliner?
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore initially launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner, but due to technical issues, NASA opted to return the spacecraft uncrewed in August 2024. As a result, both astronauts were reassigned to SpaceX’s Crew-9 mission for their journey back to Earth.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: NASA Astronauts Sunita Williams & Butch Wilmore Return to Earth After 9 Months on ISS
After spending nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS), NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are finally on their way back to Earth. Originally launched on Boeing’s Starliner in June 2024 for what was meant to be a short-duration mission, the duo faced prolonged delays due to technical issues with the spacecraft. Now, they are aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon, preparing for atmospheric reentry and a planned splashdown in the Atlantic Ocean. NASA is streaming the event live, with touchdown expected in the early hours of March 19, 2025.
Ahead of her return to Earth, Jitendra Singh calls NASA astronaut Sunita Williams “Daughter of India”
Union Minister Jitendra Singh Tuesday called NASA astronaut Sunita Williams a “daughter of India” as the world awaits her return along with Butch Wilmore, who have spent nearly nine months on the International Space Station.
Mr. Singh also stated that the country is “proud” of her and praying for her safe return. “...She (Sunita Williams), being a daughter of India, has made the entire world proud...She has successfully accomplished the task that she was assigned to.
-ANI
Did You Know? Sunita Williams' Ancestral Roots Trace Back To THIS Indian State
Born on September 19, 1965, in Euclid, Ohio, Indian-American NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has made significant contributions to space exploration. She is the daughter of Dr. Deepak Pandya and Bonnie Pandya, with her family's origins in Jhulasan village, Gujarat.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Williams' Schooling And Higher Studies
Graduated from Needham High School, Needham, Massachusetts, in 1983. Earned a Bachelor of Science in Physical Science from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1987 and a Master of Science in Engineering Management from the Florida Institute of Technology in 1995.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: How Are Sunita And Barry Finally Returning Home?
NASA initially hoped to fix the Starliner for their return, but engineers ultimately ruled it out. Instead, plans were made for their return aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule.
However, NASA delayed their departure until a new crew could take over their duties. That replacement team—Crew-10, consisting of NASA astronauts Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers, Japanese astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Russian astronaut Kirill Peskov—finally arrived in March 2025.
With their replacements on board, Williams and Wilmore boarded the Crew Dragon, undocking from the ISS at 1:05 am ET (10:35 am IST) on March 18, 2025. Seventeen hours later, they are expected to splash down in the Atlantic Ocean off Florida’s coast at 6:00 pm ET (3:30 am IST, March 19), marking the end of an unexpected but historic mission.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: How Did Sunita And Barry Cope With an Unexpected 9-Month Stay?
Rather than waiting idly, Williams and Wilmore fully integrated into ISS operations. They assisted with scientific research, station maintenance, and even performed a spacewalk together in January 2025.
Despite the uncertainty, the astronauts remained optimistic. In a November 2024 interview, Williams reassured the public, saying, “We’re feeling good, working out, eating right… People who are worried about us, really, don’t worry about us. We’re a happy crew up here.”
NASA carefully managed their health. The astronauts followed a strict exercise routine to counteract muscle and bone loss in microgravity, and supply missions ensured they had enough food and essentials—including special holiday meals.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: Students In T.N. School Wish Sunita, Barry A Safe Return
As Indian-origin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams is set to be brought back to Earth after being stranded in the space for over nine months with astronaut Barry Wilmore, students of Corporation Middle School, Singarathoppu in Madurai on Tuesday, wearing the masks of eminent scientists, wish her a safe return.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Sunita Williams’ Ancestral Village Plans Fireworks To Welcome Her Return
Residents of NASA astronaut Sunita Williams’ ancestral village in Gujarat’s Mehsana district are gearing up for Diwali-like festivities on Wednesday morning to celebrate her return.
Jhulasan village, known as the ancestral home of Williams’ father, Deepak Pandya, is alive with excitement. Villagers have been praying for her safety, with many offering special prayers and lighting an Akhand Jyot (eternal flame) at the local temple of Goddess Dola Mata.
According to Williams’ cousin, Navin Pandya, a grand procession will be held in her honour, accompanied by prayer chanting and fireworks to create a festive atmosphere similar to Diwali and Holi.
The villagers are keen to invite her to her paternal village in future.
- PTI
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: How Sunita Williams' 8-Day Space Mission Turned Into A 9-Month Stay
Williams and Wilmore launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner on June 5, 2024, on a crucial test flight for the spacecraft’s certification.
But within hours, problems emerged. Helium leaks and thruster malfunctions raised concerns. Although the spacecraft successfully docked with the ISS, further inspections revealed severe issues, making a return trip unsafe. NASA decided to keep Williams and Wilmore aboard the ISS indefinitely while engineers worked on a solution.
(Read More: How Sunita Williams' 8-Day Space Mission Turned Into A 9-Month Stay – Here’s What Happened)
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Sunita Williams Becomes Second-Longest Serving NASA Astronaut in Space
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has now accumulated 608 days in space, making her the second-longest-serving astronaut in NASA’s history. She trails only Peggy Whitson, who holds the record at 675 days.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: From Pilot To Space Pioneer, Who Is Sunita Williams?
Sunita “Suni” Williams, 59, is no stranger to long-duration space missions. A retired US Navy test pilot and NASA astronaut since 1998, she has spent over 322 days in space across multiple missions and once held the record for most spacewalk hours by a female astronaut.
Her latest mission with Butch Wilmore, 62, was meant to be a short-term test of Boeing’s Starliner, a spacecraft designed to provide an alternative to SpaceX’s Crew Dragon for ISS transport.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: NASA Astronauts' Return To Earth Live Streaming
Watch the live stream here:
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: Limited Updates Ahead as Astronauts Rest Before Reentry
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have been granted time to rest before their final descent to Earth. Mission Control has authorized them to activate a “do not disturb” flag on their consoles, ensuring minimal disruptions. As a result, updates from NASA, SpaceX, and the crew will be limited in the coming hours.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: What Happens After Landing?
Once Williams and Wilmore splash down in the Atlantic Ocean, they will be retrieved by recovery teams and flown to NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.
Post-landing procedures include:
→ Medical evaluations to assess any spaceflight-related health effects
→ Reacclimation to Earth’s gravity after spending nearly nine months in microgravity
→ Debriefing sessions with NASA scientists
After clearance from NASA flight surgeons, they will be allowed to return home.
Where and How to Watch Sunita Williams’ Return Live?
NASA will provide live streaming of Crew-9’s return across multiple platforms:
→ NASA TV – Available on NASA’s official website
→ NASA+ – NASA’s streaming service
→ YouTube – NASA’s official YouTube channel
→ Social Media – Updates on NASA’s X (Twitter) account
(Also Read: Sunita Williams Return: Date, Time, Where, And How To Watch NASA SpaceX Crew-9 Splashdown Live Streaming Online)
When will Butch Wilmore, Sunita Williams return to Earth?
After a 17-hour trip, The astronauts will return aboard the SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule, with a splashdown scheduled for 5:57 PM EST on Tuesday in Florida (3.27 AM IST on Wednesday).
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: Why NASA Astronauts Sunita Williams & Butch Wilmore Can’t Walk Immediately After Landing
When Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore return to Earth after spending nine months aboard the ISS, they won’t simply step out of the SpaceX Crew Dragon and wave to the cameras. Instead, NASA will carry them out on stretchers—not due to injury, but because of the profound effects of prolonged space travel. Months without Earth's gravity weaken muscles and disrupt balance, making it risky for astronauts to stand immediately. Without proper readjustment, they could experience dizziness, instability, or even collapse.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: How Much Sunita Williams Earn Per Month?
As per media reports, Sunita Williams is typically categorized under the GS-15 pay grade. Her estimated annual salary is approximately $152,258 (around ₹1.26 crore per year). In addition to her salary, she receives various support benefits as a NASA astronaut. This amounts to roughly $12,688 per month, equivalent to about ₹10.5 lakh per month.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: When PM Modi Met Sunita Williams In 2016 In U.S.
PM @narendramodi lays a wreath at Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial at @ArlingtonNatl pic.twitter.com/MtGs6JQV4v
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) June 6, 2016
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: PM Modi Writes To Sunita Williams, Lauds Her ‘Inspirational Fortitude And Perseverance’
As the whole world waits, with abated breath, for the safe return of Sunita Williams, this is how PM Sh @narendramodi expressed his concern for this daughter of India.
“Even though you are thousands of miles away, you remain close to our hearts,” says PM Sh Narendra Modi’s… pic.twitter.com/MpsEyxAOU9— Dr Jitendra Singh (@DrJitendraSingh) March 18, 2025
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Sunita Williams' SpaceX Return and Splashdown Timing (IST)
NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Sunita Williams, and Butch Wilmore, along with Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, successfully undocked from the space-facing port of the International Space Station’s Harmony module at 10:35 AM IST on Tuesday, March 18. Aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, the crew has embarked on a 17-hour journey back to Earth, adjusting their trajectory in preparation for atmospheric re-entry.
NASA’s live coverage of the Crew-9 return mission will resume at 2:15 AM IST on Wednesday, March 19, via NASA+, leading up to Dragon’s scheduled splashdown at 3:27 AM IST off the Florida coast. Once the spacecraft lands in the Atlantic Ocean, recovery teams will retrieve the crew and transport them to shore, marking the successful completion of their mission.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: 'India Is Praying For Your Health And Success,' PM Modi's Heartfelt Letter To Sunita Williams
In a heartfelt message, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes to NASA astronaut Sunita Williams as she returns to Earth after spending over nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
"India is praying for your health and success," wrote PM Modi in his letter to Williams, recognizing her extraordinary journey and contributions to space exploration. His message comes as Williams and her Crew-9 colleagues prepare for their SpaceX Dragon capsule splashdown following a 17-hour return journey.
Williams, who has Indian roots, is widely admired in India for her remarkable achievements in space science.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: PM Modi Writes To India's 'Daughter'
PM Narendra Modi wrote to India's 'daughter' Sunita Williams ahead of return, said 'Thousands of miles away, yet close to hearts.'
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: SpaceX vs. Boeing: Why NASA Prefers Crew Dragon For Astronaut Missions
The differences between SpaceX’s Crew Dragon and Boeing’s Starliner are stark. While Boeing’s Starliner faced severe technical setbacks, delaying Sunita Williams’ return by nine months, SpaceX’s Crew Dragon has consistently delivered successful crewed missions since 2020. With its proven track record, NASA has increasingly relied on SpaceX for astronaut transport. This latest mission reinforces SpaceX’s leadership in commercial spaceflight, showcasing its reliability, cost-effectiveness, and ability to handle critical missions with precision.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: How Sunita And Barry Ended Up Stranded in Space?
On June 5, 2024, veteran astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams lifted off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, aboard Boeing’s Starliner capsule. The mission was originally planned as a short, week-long test flight to the International Space Station (ISS). As test pilots, Wilmore and Williams were responsible for overseeing Starliner’s final crucial phase—an important milestone for Boeing as the company aimed to prove the spacecraft’s reliability after years of delays.
However, the mission took an unexpected turn soon after launch. A series of technical failures—including persistent thruster malfunctions and helium leaks—disrupted operations. These issues prevented Starliner from completing its intended objectives, forcing the astronauts to remain aboard the ISS while engineers on Earth worked tirelessly to diagnose and resolve the spacecraft's problems.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: How NASA Astronauts Will Endure Fiery Reentry And Splashdown
Sunita Williams and her fellow Crew-9 astronauts—Nick Hague and Aleksandr Gorbunov—are currently on a 17-hour journey back to Earth. Unlike the carefully controlled docking at the ISS, their reentry will be a high-speed descent through Earth’s atmosphere. The SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule will endure extreme heat as it travels at nearly 28,000 km/h (17,500 mph), gradually slowing down through a series of controlled burns. Large parachutes will then deploy to stabilize the spacecraft, ensuring a safe splashdown in the Atlantic Ocean.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Sunita Williams and Crew-9 Astronauts Prepare for SpaceX Dragon Splashdown
NASA’s live coverage of Sunita Williams’ return to Earth began with the Crew Dragon undocking at 10:35 AM ET on March 18. The next major broadcast will start at 2:15 AM ET on March 19, as the capsule makes its final descent for a planned splashdown off the Florida coast. Viewers can watch real-time updates on NASA TV, YouTube, and NASA+. The 17-hour journey back to Earth will feature a fiery atmospheric reentry, followed by parachute deployment to ensure a safe ocean landing.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: Astronauts Thank Musk, Trump for Their Return; Sunita Williams Says, "We'll Be Back Before Too Long"
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, set to return to Earth after spending over nine months in space, expressed their gratitude to SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and U.S. President Donald Trump for their support.
In a video shared by Musk on X, Sunita Williams reassured, “We are coming back before long, so don’t make those plans without me. We’ll be back before too long.”
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 16, 2025
Butch Wilmore also acknowledged their contributions, stating, “All of us have the utmost respect for Mr. Musk and, obviously, respect and admiration for our President of the United States, Donald Trump. We appreciate them, we appreciate all that they do for us, human spaceflight, for our nation, and we’re thankful for the positions they are in.”
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: Why Is Sunita Returning on SpaceX’s Dragon Instead of Boeing’s Starliner?
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore initially launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner, but due to technical issues, NASA opted to return the spacecraft uncrewed in August 2024. As a result, both astronauts were reassigned to SpaceX’s Crew-9 mission for their journey back to Earth.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE: Sunita Williams Begins Journey Back to Earth; Splashdown Expected After 3 AM
NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Sunita Williams, and Butch Wilmore, along with Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, successfully undocked from the space-facing port of the International Space Station’s Harmony module at 10:35 AM IST on Tuesday, March 18. Aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, the crew has embarked on a 17-hour journey back to Earth, adjusting their trajectory in preparation for atmospheric re-entry.
NASA’s live coverage of the Crew-9 return mission will resume at 2:15 AM IST on Wednesday, March 19, via NASA+, leading up to Dragon’s scheduled splashdown at 3:27 AM IST off the Florida coast. Once the spacecraft lands in the Atlantic Ocean, recovery teams will retrieve the crew and transport them to shore, marking the successful completion of their mission.
Sunita Williams Return LIVE Updates: NASA Astronauts Sunita Williams & Butch Wilmore Return to Earth After 9 Months on ISS
After spending nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS), NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are finally on their way back to Earth. Originally launched on Boeing’s Starliner in June 2024 for what was meant to be a short-duration mission, the duo faced prolonged delays due to technical issues with the spacecraft. Now, they are aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon, preparing for atmospheric reentry and a planned splashdown in the Atlantic Ocean. NASA is streaming the event live, with touchdown expected in the early hours of March 19, 2025.
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