Sunita Williams takes command of International Space Station for second time

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has officially assumed command of the International Space Station (ISS) during a long-duration mission aboard the orbiting facility. This marks her second command of the International Space Station, having previously led Expedition 33 in 2012. Williams and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore have been aboard the International Space Station since launching aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft on June 5, 2024, the first space mission to the International Space Station. Mission manned flight.

Mission extension and responsibility

Initially, Williams and Wilmore’s mission was planned for only eight days. However, Starliner’s technical issues have caused its return to be delayed until February 2025. Despite this unexpected delay, Williams expressed her excitement about going into space, saying, “This is my happy place. I love being in space.” Astronauts take part in daily routines on the International Space Station Maintain and conduct scientific experiments to accommodate long-term stays.

Command of the station was handed over to Williams from Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, who is scheduled to return to Earth soon. As commander, Williams will oversee a variety of operations and research activities aboard the International Space Station. Her leadership comes at a critical moment, as a rescue mission is being planned.

Upcoming rescue mission

NASA intends to deploy the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft to help Williams and Wilmore safely return to Earth after completing the extended mission. Sunita Williams made significant contributions during her astronaut career, holding the record for the most spacewalks by a woman and spending more than 322 days in space across multiple missions. Her extensive experience will be vital as she leads the current crew aboard the International Space Station.

Under Williams’ command, the International Space Station will continue to function as a center for international collaboration for space exploration and scientific research until her return early next year. The upcoming rescue mission highlights Williams’ continued dedication to human spaceflight and the complexities involved, further establishing Williams’ legacy in space exploration.