PM Modi's Heartfelt Letter to Sunita Williams as She Returns to Earth

After spending more than nine months on the International Space Station (ISS), Indian-origin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has finally begun her journey back to Earth. Prime Minister Narendra Modi penned a heartfelt letter to her, expressing India's pride in her achievements and extending warm wishes for her safe return.

In a letter dated March 1, which Union Minister Jitendra Singh shared on X, PM Modi recalled inquiring about Williams' well-being during his meetings with U.S. leaders, including President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden. He also mentioned a recent conversation with ex-NASA astronaut Mike Massimino, during which Williams' remarkable journey was discussed.

"1.4 billion Indians have always taken great pride in your achievements. Your resilience and perseverance continue to inspire us all," the Prime Minister wrote. He also acknowledged her late father, Deepak Pandya, a native of Gujarat, and noted that her mother, Bonnie Pandya, must be eagerly awaiting her return.

"Even though you are thousands of miles away, you remain close to our hearts. The people of India are praying for your well-being," he added, expressing hope that she would visit India soon.

Sunita Williams’ Extended Space Mission

Williams and her colleague, Butch Wilmore, embarked on their mission to the ISS on June 5, 2023, aboard Boeing’s Starliner for what was initially planned as a short test flight. However, technical issues with the spacecraft’s propulsion system forced an extended stay. The Starliner was eventually deemed unfit for their return, leaving them stranded in space.

To accommodate their prolonged stay, NASA reassigned them to the Crew-9 mission, which launched in September 2023. The mission adapted its crew size to ensure Williams and Wilmore could remain aboard the ISS safely.

Their long-awaited return was made possible with the arrival of Crew-10, which docked at the ISS on Sunday. Williams and Wilmore have now begun their 17-hour journey back to Earth, accompanied by astronauts Nick Hague and Aleksandr Gorbunov.

Williams, a veteran astronaut with multiple space missions under her belt, remains a source of inspiration for millions worldwide. Her perseverance throughout this extended mission further cements her legacy in space exploration.