Sunita Williams’ epic response to ‘How does India look from Space?
In 1984, Rakesh Sharma, India’s first astronaut, gazed at his homeland from space. When Prime Minister Indira Gandhi asked, “How does India look from space?” he echoed a famous line from Muhammad Iqbal’s poem: “Saare Jahaan Se Accha.”
Four decades later, NASA astronaut Sunita Williams faced a similar question after spending 286 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS). On Monday, a journalist asked her how India looked from space. Without hesitation, she replied, “India is amazing, just amazing.” She described breathtaking views of the Himalayas, capturing their beauty in striking detail.
“Every time we passed over the Himalayas, we took incredible pictures. The mountains ripple and flow down into India,” she said. Seated beside Butch Wilmore, her fellow astronaut, Williams shared vivid memories of her time in space.
She explained how the landscape transforms from the Himalayas to the vibrant colors of India. Flying from the east toward Gujarat and Mumbai, she spotted fishing fleets off the coast, serving as beacons. “India’s network of lights is stunning,” she said. “From big cities to small towns, the sight at night and day is equally mesmerizing.”
When asked about visiting India and supporting the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Williams expressed enthusiasm. “I hope to share my experiences with as many people in India as possible. It’s a great country, a strong democracy, and eager to establish itself in space. I would love to be a part of that journey.”
Wilmore, sitting beside her, quickly added, “Do you plan to take your crew members with you?”
“Absolutely,” Williams responded with a smile. Her Indian roots run deep, as her parents were born in India.
On March 18, NASA Crew-9, including Williams, Wilmore, Nick Hague, and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, reentered Earth’s atmosphere. After more than nine months in space, they splashed down aboard SpaceX’s Dragon capsule at 5:57 p.m. EDT.
Following their return, Williams and Wilmore began physical therapy at Johnson Space Center. The therapy helps astronauts adjust to Earth’s gravity after long-duration space missions. During Monday’s press conference, both appeared in high spirits. Williams even shared that she had already gone for a three-mile run on Sunday, proving her swift recovery.
Her excitement about India’s space ambitions and her commitment to inspiring future explorers highlight her enduring connection to her roots. As India pushes forward in space exploration, Williams remains eager to contribute, making her journey truly full circle.
