Sunita Williams Dances Into Space Station

_{Photo: x/@Boeingspace}

New Delhi: The Boeing Starliner spacecraft, carrying Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams and her fellow crewmate Butch Wilmore, safely rendezvoused with the International Space Station (ISS) on Thursday. This historic mission marks the first time a woman has piloted and tested a new crewed spacecraft on its inaugural journey.

At 59 years old, Williams, who has previously brought an idol of Lord Ganesh and the Bhagavad Gita to space, embarks on her third voyage to the ISS. Upon arrival, she greeted her fellow astronauts with a joyous dance, symbolizing the camaraderie and excitement of their mission. The traditional ringing of a bell welcomed Williams and Wilmore, underscoring the significance of their arrival.

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Expressing gratitude for the warm reception, Williams referred to her crewmates as "another family" and commended them for the enthusiastic welcome. This mission marks the debut flight of the Starliner spacecraft for both Williams and Wilmore, who successfully guided the Boeing craft to dock with the ISS approximately 26 hours after liftoff from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

Despite encountering minor technical challenges such as helium leaks, the astronauts completed a series of maneuvers to approach the ISS safely. During the journey, they conducted various tests, including manually piloting the Starliner for the first time in space. Their week-long stay aboard the ISS will involve assisting with experiments and tests, contributing to scientific endeavors.

Unlike previous return methods involving splashdowns at sea, Williams and Wilmore are scheduled to land the Starliner on solid ground, offering a new alternative for NASA's crew transportation needs. This milestone highlights the significance of the Boeing Starliner in NASA's commercial crew program, providing a vital complement to the SpaceX Crew Module.

Prior to liftoff, Williams expressed a mix of nerves and excitement but remained confident about flying in the new spacecraft. Reflecting on her upcoming journey, she likened returning to the ISS to a homecoming, emphasizing the familiarity and comfort of space exploration.

Notably, Williams played a role in designing the spacious Starliner, capable of accommodating up to seven crew members. She bestowed the spacecraft with the name "Calypso," inspired by the vessel used by renowned oceanographer and filmmaker Jacques-Yves Cousteau, underscoring her passion for exploration and discovery.

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