A Heroic Return
New Delhi, March 19, 2025 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted NASA’s Crew 9 with open arms as they landed back on Earth, spotlighting Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams. After a tough nine-month stay in space, their safe return on March 18, 2025, marks a big win. Modi’s heartfelt message celebrates their grit and inspires millions!
Modi’s Special Note
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Welcome back, #Crew9! The Earth missed you.” He praised Sunita Williams and her team for showing what courage and perseverance look like. Their journey, stretched far beyond the planned week, tested their spirit against the vast unknown, and Modi couldn’t be prouder.
Sunita’s Space Saga
Sunita Williams, alongside Butch Wilmore, faced a wild ride after their Boeing Starliner hit technical snags in June 2024. Stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) for 286 days, they finally returned via a SpaceX Dragon capsule, splashing down off Florida. Modi called her a trailblazer, shining a light on her Indian roots.
A National Pride Moment
Modi didn’t stop at praise – he invited Sunita to visit India, calling her a “daughter of Gujarat.” Her family’s ancestral village, Jhulasan, buzzed with joy as she stepped back on Earth. This 2025 homecoming isn’t just a personal win; it’s a boost for India’s growing space dreams.
Team Effort Shines
The PM also tipped his hat to the NASA and SpaceX crews who worked tirelessly for this safe landing. “It’s what happens when passion meets precision,” he said. With dolphins swimming near the splashdown site, the scene was a perfect mix of nature and human triumph!
