NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are preparing to return to Earth after spending nearly nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Their departure marks the conclusion of the Crew-9 mission, which has been an extended stay due to scheduling adjustments.
SpaceX’s Dragon Prepares for Return
The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, successfully detached from the ISS at 05:05 GMT. This marks a crucial step in their journey back to Earth. Meanwhile, Crew-10, carried by SpaceX’s Dragon 10, docked at the ISS on March 16, taking over station operations. This arrival followed multiple previous attempts by SpaceX and Boeing that were delayed last year due to technical challenges.
When Will Sunita Williams Return?
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are scheduled to return on March 18, 2024 (March 19 for Indian viewers).
- Departure from ISS: 1:05 AM EDT / 10:35 AM IST (March 18)
- Expected Water Landing (Near Florida): 5:57 PM EDT / 3:27 AM IST (March 19, India Time)
NASA officials had initially planned for a later return but decided on an earlier departure, ensuring favorable conditions for a safe journey.
Sunita Williams’ Time in Space
As part of NASA’s Crew-9 mission, Sunita Williams has spent nearly nine months aboard the ISS. She recently transferred command of the ISS to Russian cosmonaut Alexey Ovchinin, who will oversee operations for the next six months.
SpaceX’s Role in the Mission
SpaceX is responsible for safely returning Sunita Williams and Crew-9 members to Earth. The Dragon spacecraft will execute a controlled descent and splash down in waters near Florida. With the arrival of Crew-10, station activities will continue seamlessly.
Who Is Returning With Sunita Williams?
In addition to Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, other Crew-9 astronauts returning to Earth include:
- Nick Hague (NASA astronaut)
- Aleksandr Gorbunov (Russian cosmonaut)
