Indian-origin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams and her crewmates aboard the International Space Station (ISS) are celebrating Thanksgiving with traditional food items like smoked turkey and mashed potatoes. Williams and her crew have extended their space journey due to technical issues with the Starliner spacecraft. However, Williams is expected to return to Earth in February 2025 on a SpaceX Dragon capsule.
Indian-Origin NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams Celebrates Thanksgiving in Space
Indian-origin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams and her crewmates aboard the International Space Station (ISS) have celebrated Thanksgiving with traditional food items like smoked turkey and mashed potatoes. The crew has extended their space journey due to technical issues with the Starliner spacecraft, but Williams is expected to return to Earth in February 2025 on a SpaceX Dragon capsule.
Williams, who holds the record for the most spacewalks by a woman, has participated in multiple space missions and has spent more than 322 days in space. She is known for her endurance and resilience, as well as her passion for science and exploration.
The crew's Thanksgiving celebration is a testament to the human spirit and the ability to find joy even in challenging circumstances. It also highlights the importance of international collaboration and the pursuit of scientific knowledge.
Background on Sunita Williams' Space Journey
Sunita Williams was born in Euclid, Ohio, to Indian immigrant parents. She joined NASA in 1998 and became an astronaut in 2002. She has participated in four spaceflights, including two extended missions aboard the ISS.
Williams made history in 2007 when she became the first woman to serve as an ISS commander. She also holds the record for the longest spacewalk by a woman, which she achieved in 2012 during her third spaceflight.
Williams is currently on her fourth spaceflight, which began in September 2022. She was scheduled to return to Earth in October 2023, but the Starliner spacecraft experienced technical issues that delayed her return.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers Related to Sunita Williams' Space Journey and Thanksgiving Celebration
1. What are the technical issues that have delayed Sunita Williams' return to Earth?
The Starliner spacecraft, which was supposed to bring Williams and her crewmates back to Earth, experienced technical issues that prevented it from docking with the ISS. NASA is working to resolve the issues and determine a new launch date.
2. How long will Sunita Williams stay in space on her current mission?
Williams is expected to return to Earth in February 2025 on a SpaceX Dragon capsule. She will have spent a total of 551 days in space, which will be the longest single spaceflight by a woman.
3. What is Sunita Williams' favorite Thanksgiving food?
Williams has said that her favorite Thanksgiving food is mashed potatoes. She enjoys the comfort and familiarity of traditional Thanksgiving dishes, even when she is celebrating in space.
4. How do astronauts celebrate Thanksgiving in space?
Astronauts on the ISS celebrate Thanksgiving by eating traditional Thanksgiving food items, such as turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. They also participate in virtual celebrations with their families and friends on Earth.
5. What is the significance of Sunita Williams' space journey?
Sunita Williams' space journey is significant because it demonstrates the resilience, determination, and scientific curiosity of the human spirit. She is a role model for young people, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, and her accomplishments inspire a new generation of scientists and explorers.
Shani Jayanti, the day dedicated to the worship of Lord Shani, falls on May 27, 2025, coinciding with Jyeshtha Amavasya. As per Udayatithi, the puja and rituals should be performed on the same day. However, certain tasks should be avoided on Shani Jayanti. Read on to know the significance of this day and the dos and don'ts to please Shani Dev.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the Shanti Ashram in Lucknow to pay his last respects to Sant Shiromani Sai Chanduram, the head priest of the Ashram. He draped the mortal remains of Sant Shiromani with a saffron Angvastra and paid homage before his statue. Expressing deep sorrow over his demise, the Chief Minister wrote on social media about the irreparable loss of the spiritual leader. A large number of devotees gathered at the Ashram premises to offer their tributes and follow his teachings and ideals.
In an effort to improve vision care in rural India, the Bhaktivedanta Hospital & Research Institute held a Mega Eye & Dental Camp in Barsana, Uttar Pradesh. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the hospital aims to perform over 5000 PHACO procedures, free of cost, for those in need. The support of Tata Capital Ltd. enabled the camp to expand its reach to over 50,000 beneficiaries and receive the support of esteemed dignitaries including Smt. Hema Malini Ji and Smt. Nupur Desai.
Indian society has a narrow and sexist definition of parvarish, praising daughters who conform to traditional gender roles and blaming parents if they don't. However, it's time to focus on dismantling patriarchy within the household and raise a feminist generation. This means providing equal education to both daughters and sons, encouraging critical thinking and questioning societal norms. Parvarish should not mean curbing basic legal rights but rather empowering individuals to make their own decisions and think for themselves.
India's festival of lights, Deepawali, has been officially recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. The inscription acknowledges the festival's cultural significance and its ability to bring communities together. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the announcement, stating that Deepawali holds a special place in India's culture and represents values such as hope and righteousness. This recognition is expected to increase the festival's global popularity even further.
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Tokyo, the city welcomed him with the soulful chanting of the Gayatri Mantra, one of the most sacred and powerful verses in Indian spiritual tradition. This ancient mantra, found in the Rig Veda, is believed to have a mental healing effect due to its repetitive and focused chanting. Research has also shown that it can improve well-being and provide a sense of peace and connection for both religious and non-religious individuals.
The M3M Foundation unveils 'Payal@40' campaign to commemorate Dr. Payal Kanodia's 40th birthday on December 9, 2025. This campaign, which aims for comprehensive impact across education, healthcare, skill development, and women's empowerment, reflects a leadership approach rooted in service and compassion. With the vision of Dr. Kanodia, the campaign marks a pivotal moment for the Foundation's ongoing mission of equitable development in India.
In a unique move to promote tourism, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has planned to hold cabinet meetings at famous heritage sites in the state. The latest meeting will take place at Khajuraho Convention Centre, known for its architectural wonders. The two-day visit will also include a jungle safari in Panna Tiger Reserve and review meetings of various departments, highlighting the state's vast natural and cultural beauty.
The main accused and owners of the Goa nightclub where a massive fire killed 25 people have fled to Phuket, according to Goa Police. The police have coordinated with Interpol to apprehend the accused as a Look Out Circular was issued against them. Meanwhile, an employee of the club has been arrested and the postmortem on all 25 deceased has been completed.
Experience a global perspective with the launch of "October 20, 2025e-Paper". Get your daily dose of news and reviews from cinema and streaming in "First Day First Show". Stay updated on the top 5 technology stories with "Today's Cache" and simplify science with "Science For All". Decode the headlines with hard facts in "Data Point" and learn to prioritize your health in "Health Matters". Stay updated on the literary world with "The Hindu On Books". All in one place!