After nine months in space, NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams have finally returned to Earth. What was supposed to be an eight-day mission turned into an extended stay due to technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. While waiting for a safe ride home, the duo kept themselves busy with a packed schedule of research, experiments, and even a few holiday celebrations.
During their time on the International Space Station, Wilmore and Williams conducted 900 hours of research—roughly 37 full days—covering a variety of scientific fields. They also completed 150 experiments aimed at benefiting both space exploration and life on Earth. To combat the effects of microgravity, they each exercised for at least two hours daily, using specialized equipment to maintain muscle mass.
Williams, already an experienced spacewalker, added two more to her record, bringing her total to nine—the most for any female astronaut. The pair also took part in a unique form of absentee voting, casting their ballots in the 2024 presidential election via encrypted email. And despite being far from home, they made sure to celebrate Christmas in orbit, even wearing Santa hats and calling their families.
Now back on Earth, Wilmore and Williams will undergo medical evaluations to assess how their extended stay impacted their bodies. After nearly a year in space, they’ve more than earned a well-deserved break before their next adventure—wherever that may take them.
