Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams has made headlines by undertaking a spacewalk after 12 years, becoming one of the first to ride Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. Alongside fellow astronaut Mr. Willmore, Williams’ mission aboard the Starliner was initially intended as an eight-day visit to the International Space Station (ISS). This mission marked a significant milestone, as it was the first manned voyage using Boeing's long-awaited Starliner spacecraft.
However, the mission encountered delays, prompting reflections from the astronauts about their extended stay and eagerness to return to Earth. The crew expressed their readiness to come home, highlighting the challenges and unpredictability of space travel.
The Boeing Starliner, part of NASA's commercial crew program, aims to facilitate more routine and cost-effective spaceflights to the ISS. Developed as a counterpart to SpaceX's Crew Dragon, the Starliner’s journey has faced several hurdles, including multiple delays and technical issues, but the crewed mission represents a crucial step towards regular operational flights.
The journey of Williams and Willmore on the Boeing Starliner marks an important chapter in space travel, showcasing the collaboration between aerospace companies and NASA to expand human access to space.