As we say goodbye to 2024, Indian-American astronauts Sunita WilliamsBut with his colleagues International Space Station (ISS) will have a rare opportunity to welcome the New Year – 16 times.
Orbiting about 400 kilometers above Earth, the Expedition 72 team will observe 16 different sunrises and sunsets during its transition in 2025.
Starting in June 2024, Williams is in command of the ISS, after what was initially planned to be an eight-day trip aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft.
Due to technical problems, its mission has been significantly extended, with its return now scheduled for March 2025. This extended period enables it to experience multiple New Year celebrations, as the ISS completes one orbit approximately every 90 minutes.
Staff New Year celebrations will include special meals prepared with fresh ingredients provided from the land. They will maintain connections with loved ones via video communication to support their emotional health during this extended mission.
Williams has previously shared her enthusiasm for such specific experiences, calling the space her “happy place”.
The crew recently shared Christmas greetings, showing their festive spirit while away from Earth.
Aboard the ISS, astronauts have adopted holiday customs, including decorating and preparing special meals, while continuing their important scientific studies.
As they repeatedly look forward to welcoming 2025, Williams and his fellow crew members exemplify the extraordinary achievements in human life. is Space exploration.