Sunita Williams Describes India’s Beauty from Space as “Incredible” During ISS Mission Debrief

Astronaut Sunita Williams called India “amazing” during a post-mission press event, praising its vivid landscapes and iconic Himalayas seen from space. She expressed eagerness to visit India, support ISRO, and share her experiences. Her poetic description highlighted both India’s natural beauty and its significance as a growing spacefaring nation.

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, fresh from a 286-day mission aboard the International Space Station, offered a heartfelt and vivid description of India as seen from orbit. During a press conference at the Johnson Space Center, she was asked how India looked from space — echoing a historic question once posed to Rakesh Sharma in 1984. Without hesitation, Williams replied, “India is amazing, just amazing,” highlighting the majestic Himalayas and the country’s vibrant landscapes.

Williams elaborated on the awe-inspiring views she witnessed during her multiple passes over India. She described the Himalayas as “a ripple” formed by tectonic plates, flowing visually into the Indian subcontinent. Her words painted a dynamic picture of the terrain, with multicolored landforms and networks of lights from bustling cities like Mumbai and Gujarat to smaller towns, visible even from orbit.

The astronaut fondly recalled the sight of fishing fleets off India’s western coast, describing them as beacons welcoming her crew. Both night and day offered different visual marvels — from city lights to natural geographical beauty — which left a lasting impression on her.

When asked whether she planned to visit India, Williams, whose roots trace back to the country, responded enthusiastically. She expressed her desire to engage with India’s space program and share her experiences with the Indian people, calling India a “great country and a wonderful democracy.” Her crewmate Butch Wilmore joined in the moment, jokingly asking if she’d bring her team along — to which she readily agreed.

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Having returned to Earth on March 18 via SpaceX’s Dragon capsule, Williams is currently undergoing rehabilitation to readjust to gravity. Despite months in microgravity, she appeared energetic and even went for a 3-mile run days after her return.