16 celebrations, 90 minutes apart: Sunita Williams’ unique New Year aboard the ISS – Times of India

As we bid adieu to 2024, the Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams, along with her colleagues on the International Space Station (ISS), will have an extraordinary opportunity to welcome the New Year – 16 times. While orbiting Earth at roughly 400 kilometres above, the Expedition 72 team will observe 16 distinct sunrises and sunsets as they transition into 2025.Since June 2024, Williams has been commanding the ISS, following what was initially scheduled as an eight-day journey on Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft.Due to technical issues, her mission has been significantly stretched, with her return now scheduled for March 2025. This extended duration enables her to experience multiple New Year celebrations, as the ISS completes an orbit approximately every 90 minutes.The crew’s New Year festivities will include special meals crafted from Earth-supplied fresh ingredients. They will maintain connections with their loved ones through video communications to support their emotional health during this extended mission.Williams has previously shared her enthusiasm about such distinctive experiences, referring to space as her “happy place.”The crew recently shared their Christmas greetings, demonstrating their festive spirit whilst stationed away from Earth.Aboard the ISS, the astronauts have embraced holiday customs, including decorations and special meal preparations, whilst continuing their vital scientific studies.As they anticipate welcoming 2025 multiple times, Williams and her fellow crew members exemplify the outstanding accomplishments in human space exploration.