Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore Celebrate Christmas in Space Amid Return Delays

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS), celebrated Christmas in a special way. In the photos from the celebration, both Sunita and Butch can be seen wearing Santa hats, along with other Christmas decorations in the background. While these pictures brought smiles to many, they also sparked debates on social media.

Debate on Social Media

NASA posted pictures of Sunita Williams and her colleagues wearing Santa hats in space, which prompted various reactions from users. Some questioned whether Sunita had brought Christmas hats and other celebration items with her, suggesting that she might have been sent on a long-term mission, which had been kept hidden. One user even remarked, "Aren't these the same astronauts who went on an 8-day mission in June?"

In response, NASA dismissed the allegations, clarifying that the recent delivery of supplies to the ISS included Christmas decorations, special gifts, and festive food. This delivery was made by SpaceX at the end of November. NASA further explained that every year, ISS receives fresh rations and essential supplies, along with special items for the holiday season. The package sent to the seven astronauts and cosmonauts aboard the ISS included festive foods like ham, turkey, vegetables, pies, and cookies. In addition, Santa hats and a small Christmas tree were also sent. Sunita and Butch shared their Christmas celebrations online with these decorations.

Return Delayed Again

The return of Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore has been delayed once more. They are now expected to return aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule by the end of March 2025. Previously, their return was scheduled for February 2025. Earlier, astronauts aboard the ISS had also celebrated Thanksgiving with great enthusiasm. Now, they are celebrating Christmas and the New Year in space. Sunita and Butch had originally gone on an eight-day mission but have been forced to spend nearly a year in space due to technical and other obstacles. Their return is now postponed until 2025.