NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, a seasoned space traveler, has always had a special connection with India. As the daughter of an Indian immigrant from Gujarat, her ties to the country go beyond professional admiration—they are personal, rooted in heritage and pride. During a recent press conference at the NASA Johnson Space Center on March 31, 2025, Williams shared her breathtaking perspective of India from space, expressing awe at its beauty and enthusiasm for the country’s growing role in space exploration.
A Stunning View from Space
When asked how India appeared from her vantage point aboard the International Space Station (ISS), Williams described an awe-inspiring sight that left an indelible mark on her.
“India is amazing. Every time we went over the Himalayas, I was just stunned. The way the mountains ripple across the landscape, a clear result of tectonic forces from millennia ago, is incredible. Butch [Wilmore] got some incredible pictures of the Himalayas—just amazing,” she said, referencing her fellow astronaut.
Williams vividly painted the picture of India’s diverse geography as seen from orbit. “When you approach from the east and head towards Gujarat and Mumbai, you can spot the fishing fleets off the coast. It’s like a beacon guiding us in. At night, the country is even more mesmerizing—a vast, interconnected web of lights, with big cities shining bright and smaller towns forming intricate networks,” she recalled with admiration.
The spectacle of India from space, she explained, is one of contrasts—majestic mountains in the north, vast plains stretching into the heart of the country, and the long, bustling coastline where the land meets the sea. She emphasized how the vibrant topography and human settlements create an extraordinary image, whether viewed in daylight or the shimmer of nighttime city lights.
A Deep Connection to India
Beyond its stunning landscape, Williams holds India close to her heart for deeply personal reasons. Her father, Dr. Deepak Pandya, emigrated from Gujarat to the U.S. in 1958 to pursue a career in medicine. Williams, born in Ohio, grew up with a deep appreciation for her Indian roots, a connection she has carried throughout her career.
Her admiration for India extends to its aspirations in space exploration. She expressed excitement about the upcoming participation of Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla in the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), making him only the second Indian citizen to travel to space since Rakesh Sharma in 1984.
“India is taking confident strides in space exploration. The upcoming Ax-4 mission will have a hometown hero—someone from India who will bring a new perspective to the International Space Station. It’s an incredible moment for India, a nation with a rich scientific and space heritage, now making its mark among the world’s leading spacefaring countries,” she remarked.
Looking Forward to Visiting India
Williams is eager to return to India and share her experiences with its people, hoping to inspire future generations of astronauts, engineers, and dreamers.
“I hope, and I think for sure, I’m going to be going back to my father’s home country, visiting people, and getting them excited about India’s advancements in space,” she said enthusiastically.
When fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore jokingly asked if she would take her crew members along on her trip to India, she laughed and replied, “Absolutely! You might stick out a little bit, but that’s okay. We’ll get you all primed with some spicy food, and you’ll be good!”
A Proud Moment for India and the World
India’s growing presence in space exploration is a source of immense pride for Williams. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), highlighting the shared goal of advancing human spaceflight and exploration.
“India is a great country, another wonderful democracy that’s stepping into the spacefaring nations’ arena. We would love to be part of that journey and help them along in any way possible,” she said, reaffirming her support for India’s ambitions in space.
A Mission of Perseverance and Grit
Williams’ reflections came shortly after her return to Earth from the SpaceX Crew-9 mission, which lasted over nine months instead of the initially planned eight days. Along with fellow astronaut Wilmore, she had faced significant challenges, including helium leaks and thruster failures in the Boeing Starliner capsule, which eventually returned without them in September 2024.
Their endurance and determination during the mission earned praise worldwide, including from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who commended their courage and perseverance.
“Theirs has been a test of grit, courage, and the boundless human spirit. Sunita Williams and the Crew-9 astronauts have once again shown us what perseverance truly means. Their unwavering determination in the face of the vast unknown will forever inspire millions,” he remarked.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Williams’ journey—from being a naval officer to a NASA astronaut and a two-time space traveler—continues to inspire people worldwide. Her deep appreciation for India, both from her heritage and from the unparalleled view from space, reflects the global nature of space exploration and the unity it fosters among nations.
As she prepares for future engagements, including her much-anticipated visit to India, she remains a role model for aspiring astronauts and scientists, reminding them that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.