PM Modi writes to NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, invites 'illustrious daughter' to India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sent a personal letter to Indian-American NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, expressing admiration for her “inspirational fortitude and perseverance” during an extended nine-month stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

In his letter dated March 1, Modi conveyed greetings from India and recalled a conversation with former NASA astronaut Mike Massimino, during which Williams’ contributions were discussed, telling her “how proud we are of you and your work.”

“1.4 billion Indians have always taken great pride in your accomplishments. Recent developments have yet again showcased your inspirational fortitude and perseverance,” he wrote.

The prime minister also revealed that he had inquired about Williams’ well-being during meetings with US Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden.

“Even though you are thousands of miles away, you continue to remain close to our hearts. The people of India are praying for your good health and success in your mission,” he added.

Modi fondly recalled meeting Williams’ father, the late Deepak Pandya, in 2016 and invited Williams to visit India after her return, calling her “one of its most illustrious daughters.”

“I send my warm regards to Mr. Michael Williams. Best wishes to you and Mr. Barry Wilmore for a safe return,” he added.

The letter was made public after Williams, alongside fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, departed the ISS aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule early on Tuesday, March 18. They are joined by NASA’s Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, who launched aboard Crew-9 in September 2024 and are now returning with the stranded astronauts.

The mission originally began on June 5, 2024, when Williams and Wilmore lifted off aboard Boeing’s Starliner for its first crewed test flight. However, technical failures, including thruster malfunctions and helium leaks, rendered the spacecraft unsafe for their return. As a result, Starliner returned to Earth unmanned in September, leaving the two astronauts to await a new ride home.

Now, after months of uncertainty, their return journey is underway. The Crew Dragon capsule is expected to splash down off the coast of Florida later today following a 17-hour trip, marking the end of their extended stay in orbit.