Sunita Williams’ Family on Her Space Journey: "ISS is Her Home"

American astronaut Sunita Williams' name is resonating worldwide after she returned to Earth following an unexpected nine-month stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Her resilience and unwavering determination during this extended mission have been widely regarded as an inspiration.

Williams, along with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, was originally scheduled to return last year. However, due to technical issues with their spacecraft, they had to remain in orbit for an extended period. Recently, with the arrival of the Crew-10 mission, they bid farewell to the ISS and safely returned to Earth.

Williams' family expressed that for her, the ISS feels like home, and courage is her driving force. Despite her prolonged absence, they stated that they were never anxious because she was doing what she loved. "Whatever she loves, we love too," they affirmed.

Sunita Williams was born in the United States to Deepak Pandya and Ursuline Bonnie Pandya. She is the youngest of three siblings, with an elder brother, J. Thomas, and an elder sister, Dina Anand. Encouraged by her father, she pursued a career in the U.S. Navy, where she met Michael J. Williams. Their friendship turned into a lifelong partnership, and they have been married for over 20 years. The couple resides in the outskirts of Houston, Texas, and is considering adopting a child.

Williams has a deep affection for her pet dog, Garby, frequently sharing photos of their time together on social media. In 2006, during her first space mission, she carried the Bhagavad Gita to the ISS. In 2012, she took an "Om" symbol and a Ganesh idol with her, reflecting her personal faith. Her husband, Michael Williams, supports her spiritual beliefs.

Speaking about her daughter's prolonged stay in space, Bonnie Pandya stated that they never worried about her, as she was dedicated to her duty. She recalled that while it was initially difficult to be apart, over time, they became accustomed to it. "As long as she is happy in her pursuits, there is no reason for me to worry," she added. She emphasized that she does not give Sunita any specific advice, as "she knows exactly what she is doing."