NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, who has spent nearly five months aboard the International Space Station (ISS), extended Diwali wishes to people celebrating the festival in the United States and worldwide. In a video message from space, Williams shared the unique experience of observing Diwali from 260 miles above Earth, reminiscing about her father’s efforts to preserve their cultural roots by teaching the family about Indian festivals.
Acknowledges Support from the White House
Williams expressed gratitude to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for celebrating Diwali with the Indian community and recognizing its contributions. “Diwali is a time of joy as goodness in the world prevails,” she stated, adding that the White House’s participation underscores the festival’s importance.
#WATCH | Washington DC | White House Diwali Celebrations | NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams shares a video message on Diwali from the International Space Station.
She says, “Greetings from the ISS. I want to extend my warmest wishes for a Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating… pic.twitter.com/YEv3wNAxW9
— ANI (@ANI) October 28, 2024
Extended ISS Mission Following Starliner Decision
Williams and her fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore have been at the ISS since June, following their launch on Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. Although initially planned as a week-long test flight, NASA extended their mission after deeming it too risky to return the crew on the Starliner. The spacecraft returned to Earth without the astronauts on September 6.
The extended mission has allowed Williams and Wilmore to contribute further to the ISS expedition. They are expected to return to Earth in February, marking an eight-month stay in space.
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