As NASA prepares for a rescue mission, Sunita Williams takes command of the International Space Station

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has once again taken command of the International Space Station (ISS), marking her second tenure as the leader of the orbiting laboratory. Williams, known for her vast experience in space missions, first held the command position during Expedition 33 back in 2012.

Williams, along with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, has been aboard the ISS since June 5, 2024, after their launch on Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, which was on its inaugural crewed flight. Originally intended to be an eight-day mission, the journey took an unexpected turn due to technical difficulties with the Starliner, leading to an extension of their stay until February 2025. Despite the unanticipated extension, Williams has expressed her continued passion for space exploration, stating, “This is my happy place. This is my favorite place to be in space.

The role of commander was officially passed to Williams by Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, who is preparing for his upcoming return to Earth. As the new commander, Williams is tasked with overseeing vital operations and scientific research on the station, guiding the crew through essential experiments and activities. Her leadership is particularly significant given NASA’s preparation for a rescue mission to bring Williams and Wilmore back to Earth safely.

NASA plans to deploy a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft to retrieve the two astronauts in early 2025, with Williams’ role being central to maintaining the station’s smooth operation as these rescue preparations are finalized.

Renowned for her contributions to space exploration, Williams holds the record for the highest number of spacewalks conducted by a female astronaut and has logged over 322 days in space across multiple missions. Her extensive experience and expertise make her an ideal leader for the ISS, especially during this extended mission, ensuring that the crew continues to function effectively and that research progresses seamlessly during the challenging period ahead.