In her first interview after returning to Earth, astronaut Sunita Williams shared her experience of being stranded in space for an extended period, revealing how she and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore adapted to the situation. Their mission aboard a Boeing Starliner was initially meant to last just eight days but was extended after technical issues were discovered in the spacecraft, delaying their return.

‘We had to pivot and make the best of it’

Speaking to Fox News, Williams said that when she first learned of the extended stay, her immediate thought was to adapt.

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“My first thought was, we have to pivot. If this was the destiny, if our spacecraft was going to be going home based on decisions made here, and we are going to be up there till February, I thought, let’s make the best of it.”

While the mission was originally short-term, both astronauts had trained for the possibility of an extended stay. Williams embraced the challenge, assisting with science experiments and daily tasks on the space station.

“We jumped right into it, and did the tasks that were given to us. Deep inside I was a little excited because I love living in space. I loved seeing how the space station had changed since the last time I went there.”

Wilmore’s perspective on the extended stay

Butch Wilmore, who also spent nine months in space, reflected on the larger purpose of their mission, emphasizing his commitment to space exploration.

“Honestly, it’s not about me. It’s not about my feelings. It’s what this human space flight is about. It’s our national goals. I had to wrap my head around, what does our nation need from me right now….we’re an instrument of our nation and our national goals.”

Wilmore acknowledged the personal sacrifices involved, including missing his daughter’s senior year of high school.

“Did I think about not being there for my daughter’s high school year? Of course. But I compartmentalized. We have raised my daughters to be resilient, we as a family have talked about these things. Nothing is a given…we just focused on the mission.”

Return to Earth and appreciation for support

After spending 286 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS), Williams and Wilmore finally returned home aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule on March 19. The astronauts expressed their gratitude to Elon Musk and former U.S. President.

Despite the unexpected delay, Williams remains enthusiastic about space travel and grateful for the experience. Her return marks the completion of yet another milestone in human space exploration.