Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have returned to Earth after an unexpected nine-month stay in space. Originally set for just eight days, their mission was extended due to technical issues with Boeing's Starliner.

They finally made their journey home aboard SpaceX's Dragon capsule, splashing down safely off the Florida coast this morning.

The spacecraft initiated a deorbit burn at 2:41 am before landing at 3:27 am. NASA's Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov accompanied them on their 17-hour return trip. SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, ensured the successful recovery, while Crew-10 replaced them aboard the ISS.

The prolonged mission sparked political debate, with President Donald Trump criticizing the previous Biden administration. The White House defended the mission’s success, stating Trump had fulfilled his commitment.

Spending 286 days in space poses significant health risks, including bone and muscle deterioration, vision impairment, and radiation exposure. NASA will now monitor their recovery closely.

Back in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his admiration for Williams in a letter dated March 1, highlighting India's pride in her achievements. He mentioned discussing her mission with both Trump and Biden during U.S. visits.

With their return, Williams and Wilmore face weeks of rehabilitation, but their journey stands as a testament to human resilience and exploration. As Williams waved upon exiting the capsule, it was clear: she has returned home a hero.