HOUSTON (Diya TV) — For almost 300 days, astronaut Sunita Williams traveled the globe on the International Space Station (ISS), watching the world from an extraordinary perspective. Of the millions of vistas, India and, more specifically, the breathtaking Himalayas held a special fascination for her.
“Each time we flew over the Himalayas, it was just incredible,” Williams said, looking back on her experience in space. She called India a tapestry of color and texture, observing the unique topography created by tectonic forces. Coming in from the east to Gujarat and Mumbai, the view of fishing fleets along the coast was a warm welcome sign.
During the evening, India’s landscape became a web of lights, with major cities merging into smaller ones, forming a hypnotic sight from the ISS. The Himalayas were still a distinctive feature, looming large even in the absence of light.
Williams, who was proud of her Indian heritage, said she would like to help India’s growing space program. “It’s a wonderful country, another fine democracy, and is attempting to put its foot in the space arena. I’d love to be a part of it,” she said.
Her friend, astronaut Barry “Butch” Wilmore, jokingly asked whether she would be taking her crew with her on a possible trip to India. Williams replied positively, joking that although they might stick out, they’d be introduced to spicy Indian food.
Following a long mission, Williams craved basic comforts when she returned. A grilled cheese sandwich, recalling her father’s vegetarian diet, was at the top of her list. Being reunited with her husband and dogs was her priority, emphasizing the personal sacrifices made by astronauts.
Reacclimatization to Earth’s gravity was challenging. Williams recognized the early struggles but stressed the need for strength training, such as weightlifting and weighted squats, to restore muscle mass and overall physical well-being.
