Stuck in space for over 8 months, Sunita Williams finally gets a return date; a look at her journey

Stuck in space for over eight months, astronaut Sunita Williams is finally set to return to Earth as NASA accelerated its crew rotation schedule. The US space agency recently announced a change in plans, confirming that Williams and her crewmate Butch Wilmore will return aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule, rather than the originally planned vehicle.
Their long-awaited journey home comes as part of NASA’s Crew-10 mission, which is now scheduled to launch on March 12, bringing a fresh crew to the International Space Station (ISS) and facilitating the long-overdue return of the two astronauts.
NASA in a post on X stated, “NASA and SpaceX are accelerating the target launch and return dates for the upcoming crew rotation missions to and from the Space Station. Crew10 launch now is targeted for March 12.”
Their eight-month journey has been an inspiration to many, and fans back home are eagerly awaiting their return. Meanwhile, let’s take a look at Sunita Williams’ journey so far, as she completes eight months in space.

The start of an ambitious mission
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore launched toward the International Space Station on June 5 for what was originally planned as an eight-day mission. However, they have now been in space for over eight months due to technical issues with their spacecraft.
Malfunctions in the thrusters and helium leaks in the propulsion system made the vehicle unsafe for a crewed return, forcing an extended stay aboard the ISS. The Mission Extension Begins
However, their return was delayed when technical issues with the Starliner capsule’s propulsion system made it unsafe for re-entry. Malfunctions in the thrusters and helium leaks in the propulsion system meant that the astronauts had no choice but to extend their stay on the ISS.
Stranded, but Not Defeated

With a lot of time on their hands, Williams and Wilmore prepared themselves for a prolonged mission. Williams faced several health challenges due to extended exposure to microgravity, including muscle atrophy, bone density loss, and appetite-related weight loss. However, she remained resilient in spirit and even assured the media through various video messages.
Beyond maintenance work, Williams continued scientific research, including studies on the long-term effects of space travel on the human body—valuable knowledge for NASA’s future deep-space missions. She also maintained her passion for running, virtually participating in Cape Cod’s 7-mile Falmouth Road Race while training on the space station’s treadmill. A longtime Boston sports fan, she kept morale high by bringing along her New England Patriots and Red Sox gear.
Taking Command and Daily Life on the ISS
In September 2024, Williams stepped up as station commander, overseeing station operations and leading the crew through daily tasks. Both she and Wilmore seamlessly integrated as full-fledged crew members, assisting with scientific research and essential maintenance—fixing a broken toilet, vacuuming air vents, and tending to plants.
Celebrating Festivals in Space

In November 2024, she sent a video message wishing everyone a Happy Diwali, acknowledging the celebrations happening at the White House and across the world. Later that month, she and Wilmore marked Thanksgiving in space, enjoying a special menu prepared for astronauts, featuring smoked turkey, Brussels sprouts, and spiced apples.
Embracing Life in Space
In December 2024, Williams shared her excitement with students from an elementary school named after her in Needham, Massachusetts, telling them, “Living in space is super fun. I like everything about being up here.”
Spacewalks and Public Reassurance

Williams remained active in space operations, performing her first spacewalk of the mission on January 30, 2025. The spacewalk was critical for ISS maintenance and ongoing scientific work.
With concerns growing about their prolonged stay, Williams and Wilmore addressed the public in early February 2025. Williams reassured everyone that they did not feel abandoned, emphasizing their commitment to their mission and their trust in NASA’s plans for their return.