Sunita Williams Among Top Google Trends: Here’s Why the Indian-Origin Astronaut Is Making Headlines
Sunita Williams Among Top Google Trends: Here’s Why the Indian-Origin Astronaut Is Making Headlines
Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams has been trending on Google for over a week, captivating the internet with her ongoing mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Williams, along with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, made history by becoming the first crew members to fly aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, embarking on a 25-hour journey to the ISS.
Launched on June 5, 2024, Williams and Wilmore initially planned an eight-day test flight to demonstrate the Starliner’s capabilities for future crewed missions. However, due to technical issues with the spacecraft, including helium leaks and thruster malfunctions, their return has been delayed significantly. The unexpected extension means Williams will remain on the ISS until at least February 2025, nearly eight months longer than originally scheduled.
In light of these complications, NASA has made the decision to bring Williams and Wilmore back to Earth aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft instead of the Starliner.
“Spaceflight is risky, even at its safest and most routine,” NASA Administrator Bill Nelson remarked on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing the challenges and dangers associated with extended space missions.
