Four decades after Rakesh Sharma, Indias first astronaut, famously described his homeland with the poetic line Saare Jahaan Se Accha in response to Prime Minister Indira Gandhis question about how India looked from space, history echoed in a new voice. Sunita Williams, the Indian-origin NASA astronaut who recently spent 286 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS), was asked a similar question. Her answer was simple yet profound: India is amazing, just amazing. Her words reflected a deep appreciation for the country’s breathtaking beauty as seen from space.

The Spectacular View of the Himalayas

While recalling her experience, Williams specifically highlighted the stunning sight of the Himalayas. Every time we went over the Himalayas, we got incredible pictures, she noted, describing how the vast mountain range appeared from above. She compared it to a ripple effect, starting from the point of tectonic collision and flowing down into the Indian subcontinent. The sight of the Himalayas, she emphasized, was one of the most mesmerizing aspects of her space journey.

Her admiration for India’s landscapes didnt stop there. As she described the view from space, she painted a picture of a land full of color and contrast. When approaching India from the East and moving towards Gujarat and Mumbai, Williams noted the distinct fishing fleets along the coast that served as a beacon of recognition. She was equally fascinated by the intricate network of lights across the country, glowing brilliantly from big cities to smaller towns, making for a spectacular sight both during the day and at night.

Desire to Contribute to Indias Space Program

When asked whether she would be willing to visit India and contribute to the Indian Space Research Organisations (ISRO) growing space program, Williams responded with enthusiasm. She expressed her hope to collaborate with ISRO and share her experiences with as many people in India as possible. It is a great country and another wonderful democracy, she remarked, acknowledging India’s aspirations to strengthen its presence in space exploration. Williams was keen on supporting Indias advancements in the sector and helping the nation take strides in its space journey.

During the conversation, fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, who was sitting beside her, playfully inquired if she planned to bring her crew members along for the trip. Without hesitation, Williams confirmed, Absolutely, showcasing her eagerness to bridge the gap between international astronauts and Indias space ambitions.

Returning to Earth After 286 Days

Williams, along with NASA Crew-9 members Nick Hague, Butch Wilmore, and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, successfully returned to Earth on March 18, 2025. Their spacecraft, SpaceXs Dragon capsule, made a smooth splashdown at 5:57 PM EDT, marking the end of their nearly nine-month-long mission aboard the ISS.

Following their return, Williams and Wilmore began the process of physical rehabilitation at NASAs Johnson Space Center. The therapy is a standard protocol to help astronauts readjust to Earth’s gravity after prolonged space travel. Despite spending months in microgravity, Williams appeared to be in excellent physical condition. She even shared that she had gone for a 3-mile run just a day before the press conference, demonstrating her strong recovery and high spirits.

Looking Ahead to the Future

Williamss reflections on her journey and her admiration for India highlight the deep connection astronauts develop with Earth while orbiting far beyond its surface. Her willingness to engage with Indias space program underscores the growing collaboration between international space agencies. With ISROs ambitious goals and experienced astronauts like Williams showing interest, the future of Indias space exploration looks promising.

As Williams continues to inspire future astronauts, her experiences serve as a testament to the wonder and unity that space exploration brings, reminding the world that our planet, viewed from above, is a shared home of extraordinary beauty and endless possibilities.