NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS) for nearly five months, shared heartfelt Diwali wishes with those celebrating the festival in the United States and around the world. In a video message recorded from space, the Indian-origin astronaut shared her distinct experience of witnessing Diwali from an altitude of 260 miles above the Earth.
“Greetings from the ISS,” she began. “I want to extend my warmest wishes for a Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating today at the White House and across the globe.” Williams reminisced about her father’s efforts to maintain their cultural heritage by teaching her family about Diwali and other Indian festivals.
She highlighted the festival’s essence, stating, “Diwali is a time of joy as goodness in the world prevails,” emphasizing its message of hope and renewal.
Williams also expressed gratitude to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for celebrating Diwali with the community and acknowledging their contributions. She expressed gratitude to the President and Vice President for celebrating Diwali with the community and for acknowledging the numerous contributions made by its members.
Her message resonated especially during the Diwali celebrations at the White House. Notably, Williams and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore have been aboard the ISS since June 6, following their launch on Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft on June 5.
Due to safety concerns, a decision was made to return the Starliner to Earth without its crew, which successfully landed on September 6. Williams and Wilmore will continue their expedition until their return in February next year, extending what was originally intended as a week-long test flight to approximately eight months.
