Washington: NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, one of the most accomplished space explorers in American history, has officially retired after a remarkable career spanning nearly three decades. Williams leaves behind a legacy defined by endurance, leadership, and record setting achievements in human spaceflight.
Over the course of her career, Sunita Williams spent a total of 608 days in space, placing her among the top astronauts worldwide for time spent in orbit. She flew on three missions to the International Space Station and played key roles in long duration expeditions that advanced scientific research and international cooperation in space.
Williams also made history through her work outside the space station. She completed nine spacewalks, spending more than 62 hours working in open space. This remains one of the highest spacewalking totals by any astronaut and a record for women. During one of her missions, she became the first woman to run a marathon in space, capturing global attention and inspiring millions.
Her final mission began in June 2024 as part of the first crewed test flight of Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. What was planned as a short mission turned into an extended stay after technical issues delayed the spacecraft’s return. Williams and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore remained aboard the space station for more than nine months before safely returning to Earth in March 2025 aboard a SpaceX capsule.
Throughout her career, Sunita Williams also served as commander of the International Space Station and contributed to critical operations involving robotics, space station maintenance, and crew safety. Colleagues and space experts have praised her calm leadership and dedication during challenging missions.
NASA confirmed that Williams officially retired on December 27, 2025, closing a 27 year journey that helped shape modern human spaceflight. Her achievements continue to stand as a powerful example of determination and exploration, inspiring future generations to look beyond Earth and dream of the stars.