Sunita Williams Breaks Record, Sets New Record For Spacewalk Time
Sunita Williams Breaks Record, Sets New Record For Spacewalk Time
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National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronaut Sunita Williams has set a new record for spacewalking, spending a total of 60 hours and 21 minutes outside the International Space Station. She achieved this milestone on January 30, 2025, during her latest spacewalk with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore.

The International Space Station confirmed the achievement on social media 'X':- "NASA astronaut Suni Williams surpassed astronaut Peggy Whitson's total spacewalking time. She is still outside, working on removing radio communications hardware."This marked Williams' ninth spacewalk, lasting around 6.5 hours. She was involved in maintenance work and collecting samples from the Destiny laboratory and Quest airlock for analysis. NASA live-streamed the event, showing Williams in a red-striped spacesuit while Wilmore, on his fifth spacewalk, wore an unmarked one.

Sunita Williams and Wilmore reached the International Space Station in June 2024 aboard Boeing’s Starliner capsule for what was meant to be a short mission. However, technical issues with Starliner have repeatedly delayed their return. NASA now plans to bring them back aboard the SpaceX Crew-9 mission by the end of March 2025, meaning they will have spent nearly 300 days in space.

NASA, however, clarified that Williams and Wilmore were never in danger. The agency stated that a return was always possible via SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule, but bringing them back early would disrupt ISS operations. The delay ensures a smooth transition and maintains crew safety.

After more than seven months in zero gravity, Williams has admitted facing physical challenges adjusting back to Earth’s conditions.

Without gravity, astronauts do not sit or lie down, which makes readjusting to Earth's gravity difficult. Her experience highlights the physical impact of long-term space travel, a critical issue for future missions to Mars and beyond.

Despite the extended mission, Williams has stayed in close touch with family. She shared, "I talk to my mom practically every day just to check in and keep that connection alive."
The delay has tested both her physical endurance and emotional resilience, offering insight into the sacrifices astronauts make for space exploration.

Williams and Wilmore are now expected to return with SpaceX Crew-10, scheduled for late March or early April 2025. NASA continues to prioritize their safety and smooth ISS operations as part of its long-term spaceflight strategy.

 

 

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