Legendary astronaut Sunita Williams has hung up her space suit, retiring from NASA on December 27, 2025, after 27 years of pioneering achievements. Her exit follows a dramatic nine-month ISS mission, cementing her as a cornerstone of modern space exploration.
Praised by Jared Isaacman as reshaping human spaceflight, Williams’ command advanced low-orbit commerce and laid tracks for Artemis and Mars. NASA hails her legacy as a beacon for pushing possibilities.
Ohio-born with Massachusetts roots, her Indian paternal heritage from Gujarat meets her husband’s Slovenian background. Leisure pursuits encompass mechanical hobbies, outdoor exploits, home projects, and pet companionship.
Career launch: 2006 STS-116 on Discovery; Expeditions 14/15 feats with four spacewalks.
2012: 127-day command of Expedition 33, three EVAs for repairs.
2024 Starliner with Wilmore: Extended to 286 days across dual expeditions, record-tying duration.
Nine spacewalks (women’s record, NASA 4th at 62+ hours); space marathon first; extensive training roles from underwater sims to lunar prep.
A career of firsts and fixes, Williams’ story fuels endless inspiration.