Sunita Williams describes how India looked from space

Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams, fresh from her extended mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), recently shared her awe-inspiring experiences of viewing India from space during a press conference.

After spending 286 days in space, Williams, when asked about how India appeared from above, simply said, “Amazing, just amazing.”

Williams, who frequently expresses pride in her Indian heritage, was particularly captivated by the stunning views of the Himalayas. She recalled that every time the ISS passed over the majestic mountain range, fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore would capture breathtaking photographs.

“Every time we went over the Himalayas, Butch got incredible pictures; it is just amazing,” she said, visibly nostalgic about the experience.

Williams also spoke of how the sight of India from space felt like a personal connection to her heritage. “I have described it before like this ripple that happened when the plates collided, and then, as it flows down into India, it is many-many colours,” she explained.

She fondly described seeing Gujarat and Mumbai from above, noting how the fishing fleets off the coast became a familiar landmark, offering a sense of homecoming. “It gives you a little bit of a beacon, here we come,” she added.

Williams also highlighted the extraordinary sight of India at night, with a “network of lights” stretching from larger cities to smaller ones, set against the grandeur of the Himalayas. This view, she said, was truly “incredible.”

The 59-year-old astronaut also expressed her excitement about NASA’s upcoming Axiom mission, which will send four astronauts into space, including Subhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force test pilot and ISRO astronaut. “It’s pretty awesome,” she said, acknowledging Shukla as a “hometown hero” for India.

Williams expressed her willingness to support India’s space program, saying she would love to share her experiences and contribute to India’s growing space ambitions. “I would love to be a part of that and help them along,” she added.

Having Indian roots through her parents, Williams also shared her eagerness to visit her “father’s country” soon. She joked with Wilmore about taking their crew members to India, saying, “You might stick out a little bit. That is okay. We will get you all primed for some spicy food.”