Ganesh Idol, Bhagwad Gita - Things Sunita Williams Took To International Space Station

Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams , who spent over nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS), is set to return to Earth on Wednesday. The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft has successfully undocked from the ISS, carrying Williams along with fellow astronauts Butch Wilmore, Nick Hague, and others.  

Watch the LIVE coverage of Sunita Williams' homecoming here

A deep connection to Indian culture  

Williams has often expressed her admiration for Indian culture and spirituality. During her journey to space on the Boeing Starliner last May, she carried a copy of the Bhagavad Gita, reflecting her strong cultural roots.  

Lord Ganesha statue in space  

According to multiple media reports, Williams also took a Lord Ganesha idol with her to space, a practice she has followed in previous missions. Her connection to Indian traditions has been evident throughout her career, as she has carried religious and cultural symbols to space on multiple occasions.  

Williams’ return marks the end of a prolonged mission, as she and her crew faced unexpected delays due to technical challenges with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. Now, after months in orbit, she is set to make a long-awaited journey back to Earth.