In the years following the launch of the Hubble Space Telescope, astronomers have tallied over 1 trillion galaxies in the universe, but Andromeda stands out. 

7 incredible Andromeda Galaxy images released by NASA

#GRAVITAS | Yesterday, Hubble, the U.S. space telescope turned 35. And to mark the occasion, NASA released a series of new high-definition images it has captured over the years. Watch this video to find out more.

NASA celebrates Hubble’s 35th year in orbit

The Roman Telescope will carry out wide and deep sky surveys to study the impact of dark energy and dark matter on cosmic evolution, as well as observe exoplanetary systems beyond the solar system. These surveys are based on proposals from over 1,000 scientists across more than 350 institutions.

'Mapping the stars': NASA unveils Roman Telescope’s celestial vision (Check blueprint)

NASA&rsquo;s oldest astronaut, Don Pettit, celebrated his 70th birthday while hurtling towards Earth in a spacecraft as he returned the Earth following a seven-month mission onboard the International Space Station (ISS).
American astronaut Pettit, along with two Russian cosmonauts, landed in a Soyuz capsule in Kazakhstan on Sunday (Apr 20).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-discovery-points-to-the-exact-date-jesus-christ-was-likely-crucified-8979096">NASA discovery points to the exact date Jesus Christ was likely crucified</a>
&ldquo;Today at 0420 Moscow time (0120 GMT), the Soyuz MS-26 landing craft with Alexei Ovchinin, Ivan Vagner and Donald (Don) Pettit aboard landed near the Kazakh town of Zhezkazgan,&rdquo; Russia&rsquo;s space agency Roscosmos said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/nasa-unearths-massive-328-foot-wide-hole-on-mars-says-could-contain-alien-life-8976688">NASA unearths massive 328-foot-wide hole on Mars, says could 'contain alien life'</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9pxdo6p-q186wpxk-u6l14w54">
Happy birthday, <a href="https://twitter.com/astro_Pettit?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@astro_Pettit</a>! Many happy returns (including this one) 🥳 The MS-26 Soyuz spacecraft touched down in Kazakhstan at 9:20pm ET&mdash;or, in local time, 6:20am April 20, Pettit's 70th birthday. <a href="https://t.co/qFM5fAxnA0">pic.twitter.com/qFM5fAxnA0</a>
&mdash; NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1913765879612858433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>&lsquo;Doing well&rsquo;</h2>
Pettit, Ovchinin and Vagner completed a journey of 93.3 million miles and orbited the Earth 3,520 times during their 220-day mission in space.
This was the fourth space flight for Pettit, who has spent more than 18 months in space during his career of 29 years.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/was-blue-origins-all-female-flight-hoax-netizens-point-katy-perrys-hair-gayle-kings-hand-as-conspiracy-theories-float-8977106">Was Blue Origin&rsquo;s all-female flight hoax? Netizens point Katy Perry&rsquo;s hair, Gayle King&rsquo;s hand as conspiracy theories float</a>
The astronauts touched down in a remote region south-east of Zhezkazgan in Kazakhstan after undocking from the space station around three hours earlier. The images shared by NASA showed the small capsule parachuting down to Earth as the sun rises. The astronauts gave thumbs up as they were carried out of the spacecraft by rescuers.
In a statement, NASA said that Pettit was &ldquo;doing well and in the range of what is expected for him following return to Earth.&rdquo;
Watch | Historic Blue Origin flight: Women astronauts experience panoramic views of Earth
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After flying to the Kazakh city of Karaganda, the NASA astronaut boarded a plane to the agency&rsquo;s Johnson Space Center in Texas.
Aboard the International Space Station, the astronauts spent their time researching various areas like water sanitisation technology, plant growth under various conditions and fire behaviour in microgravity, NASA said.

The astronauts touched down in a remote region south-east of Zhezkazgan in Kazakhstan after undocking from the space station around three hours earlier. Trending | SCIENCE & TECH | World

NASA’s oldest astronaut, Don Pettit, celebrated his 70th birthday while hurtling towards Earth in a spacecraft as he returned the Earth following a seven-month mission onboard the International Space Station (ISS). American astronaut Pettit, along with two Russian cosmonauts, landed in a Soyuz capsule in Kazakhstan on Sunday (Apr 20). Also read | NASA discovery points to the exact date Jesus Christ was likely crucified “Today at 0420 Moscow time (0120 GMT), the Soyuz MS-26 landing craft with Alexei Ovchinin, Ivan Vagner and Donald (Don) Pettit aboard landed near the Kazakh town of Zhezkazgan,” Russia’s space agency Roscosmos said. Also read | NASA unearths massive 328-foot-wide hole on Mars, says could 'contain alien life' Happy birthday, @astro_Pettit! Many happy returns (including this one) 🥳 The MS-26 Soyuz spacecraft touched down in Kazakhstan at 9:20pm ET—or, in local time, 6:20am April 20, Pettit's 70th birthday. pic.twitter.com/qFM5fAxnA0 — NASA (@NASA) April 20, 2025 ‘Doing well’ Pettit, Ovchinin and Vagner completed a journey of 93.3 million miles and orbited the Earth 3,520 times during their 220-day mission in space. This was the fourth space flight for Pettit, who has spent more than 18 months in space during his career of 29 years. Also read | Was Blue Origin’s all-female flight hoax? Netizens point Katy Perry’s hair, Gayle King’s hand as conspiracy theories float The astronauts touched down in a remote region south-east of Zhezkazgan in Kazakhstan after undocking from the space station around three hours earlier. The images shared by NASA showed the small capsule parachuting down to Earth as the sun rises. The astronauts gave thumbs up as they were carried out of the spacecraft by rescuers. In a statement, NASA said that Pettit was “doing well and in the range of what is expected for him following return to Earth.” Watch | Historic Blue Origin flight: Women astronauts experience panoramic views of Earth After flying to the Kazakh city of Karaganda, the NASA astronaut boarded a plane to the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Texas. Aboard the International Space Station, the astronauts spent their time researching various areas like water sanitisation technology, plant growth under various conditions and fire behaviour in microgravity, NASA said.

WATCH | NASA's oldest astronaut Don Pettit braves dangerous cosmic journey on 70th birthday

India's premise space agency is sure is gearing up for two highprofile space missions over the next two months Indian Air Force fighter pilot group captain Shubanshu Shukla will fly to the International Space Station in May as part of the Axiom 4 mission.

Indian astronaut Shubanshu Shukla to fly to ISS aboard Axiom-4

In a symbolic ceremony aboard the International Space Station, Russian cosmonaut Alexey Ovchinin handed over command to Japanese astronaut Takuya Onishi. The two astronauts, who first met as rookies aboard the ISS in 2016, shared an emotional moment during the change-of-command event held on April 18. Onishi wished his colleague a safe return to Earth as he assumed leadership of the space station.

Emotional farewell as Ovchinin hands ISS command to Japan’s Takuya Onishi

Observations by the James Webb Space Telescope of a planet called K2-18, located 124 light years from Earth, have yielded the strongest evidence yet that extraterrestrial life may be thriving beyond our solar system.

Scientists find strongest-ever evidence of life beyond Earth

James Webb's stunning discovery: A planet that could be teeming with life

Using groundbreaking data from NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, scientists have captured a planet's final moments as it spirals into its star—and Earth is next. Discover the terrifying physics behind orbital decay, the "drag of doom" that could incinerate our world, and why astronomers say Earth’s fate is a 50/50 coin toss.

Cosmic countdown: Earth's 5-billion-year expiration date

NASA's Hubble Space Telescope will soon celebrate the 35th anniversary of its launch. It was sent into space on April 24, 1990. Photos | Trending

Hubble turns 35: 7 stunning cosmic photos clicked by the NASA space telescope

NASA's latest asteroid warning is about a space rock named 2023 KU that is hurtling towards Earth at a speed of 64,000 kilometres per hour. The 370-foot asteroid belongs to the Apollo group of asteroids and is about the size of a 35-story building. It will reach Earth on April 11 at 9:05 pm IST, flying at a speed of 64,827 km/hr.&nbsp;
However, NASA says that it does not pose any threat to the planet and will fly by at a safe distance of 1 million kilometres.&nbsp;
Asteroids from the Apollo group are near-Earth objects that cross our planet's orbit. Scientists have discovered a total of 21,083 Apollo asteroids to date, making the class the largest group of near-Earth objects.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/nasas-james-webb-space-telescope-looks-at-2032-city-killer-asteroid-8913250" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">NASA's James Webb makes new revelation about 'city-killer' asteroid visiting in 2032</a>
The Apollo group of asteroids are named after a space rock, 1862 Apollo, that was discovered by German astronomer Karl Reinmuth in the 1930s. This was the first known object belonging to this group, and so the entire group was named after it. After being first seen in 1932, it was lost for over 40 years and was not seen again until 1973.
<h2>NASA's program to study asteroids</h2>
Astronomers will keep a watch on any asteroids that might cause any type of destruction. This is part of NASA's Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), which looks at all near-Earth objects and measures their orbits.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/asteroid-donaldjohanson-photo-70-million-kilometres-from-lucy-8761779" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">70 million kilometres away, Lucy targets asteroid Donaldjohanson</a>
It prepares comprehensive impact hazard assessments for the space agency&rsquo;s Planetary Defense Coordination Office at NASA Headquarters in Washington.
This is how astronomers learned about the two asteroids that made headlines in the past few months. First was Apophis, an asteroid feared to strike Earth in 2029.
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Next came the "city-killer" asteroid 2024 YR4, which gave researchers sleepless nights for days after it was revealed that it was on a collision course with Earth. The impact was gauged to happen in 2032. Thankfully, calculations showed that it will narrowly miss the planet.&nbsp;
However, now it looks set to hit the Moon, and NASA thinks there is a high chance that this will happen. &nbsp;"While an Earth impact by 2024 YR4 on December 22, 2032, has now been ruled out, it continues to have a non-zero probability of impacting the Moon at this time," researchers said in a report.

NASA has warned of an asteroid flying at a dangerous speed towards Earth. The flyby will happen on April 11, and the chances of an impact happening are...  Trending

NASA's latest asteroid warning is about a space rock named 2023 KU that is hurtling towards Earth at a speed of 64,000 kilometres per hour. The 370-foot asteroid belongs to the Apollo group of asteroids and is about the size of a 35-story building. It will reach Earth on April 11 at 9:05 pm IST, flying at a speed of 64,827 km/hr. However, NASA says that it does not pose any threat to the planet and will fly by at a safe distance of 1 million kilometres. Asteroids from the Apollo group are near-Earth objects that cross our planet's orbit. Scientists have discovered a total of 21,083 Apollo asteroids to date, making the class the largest group of near-Earth objects. Also Read: NASA's James Webb makes new revelation about 'city-killer' asteroid visiting in 2032 The Apollo group of asteroids are named after a space rock, 1862 Apollo, that was discovered by German astronomer Karl Reinmuth in the 1930s. This was the first known object belonging to this group, and so the entire group was named after it. After being first seen in 1932, it was lost for over 40 years and was not seen again until 1973. NASA's program to study asteroids Astronomers will keep a watch on any asteroids that might cause any type of destruction. This is part of NASA's Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), which looks at all near-Earth objects and measures their orbits. Also Read: 70 million kilometres away, Lucy targets asteroid Donaldjohanson It prepares comprehensive impact hazard assessments for the space agency’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office at NASA Headquarters in Washington. This is how astronomers learned about the two asteroids that made headlines in the past few months. First was Apophis, an asteroid feared to strike Earth in 2029. Next came the "city-killer" asteroid 2024 YR4, which gave researchers sleepless nights for days after it was revealed that it was on a collision course with Earth. The impact was gauged to happen in 2032. Thankfully, calculations showed that it will narrowly miss the planet. However, now it looks set to hit the Moon, and NASA thinks there is a high chance that this will happen. "While an Earth impact by 2024 YR4 on December 22, 2032, has now been ruled out, it continues to have a non-zero probability of impacting the Moon at this time," researchers said in a report.

NASA warns of asteroid hurtling towards Earth at scary speed

The Russian space agency Roscosmos launched three men to the International Space Station aboard the Soyuz MS-27 on April 8. This includes American astronaut Jonathan Yong "Jonny" Kim and two cosmonauts, Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky. The capsule launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. The trio is scheduled to reach the orbiting lab on Tuesday at 5:03 am EDT. The docking will happen at 7:20 am EDT and will be live-streamed. They will stay at the ISS for about eight months and return in December.&nbsp;
The American astronaut onboard the Soyuz, Jonny Kim, is on his first trip to space. NASA telecast the launch live on its website and social media handles. Kim has been with NASA for only about eight years and only three years later after he joined the space agency, he was among 17 astronauts picked for the Artemis mission aimed at landing humans on the moon.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/nasa-mars-mission-artemis-moon-missions-8739498" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Mars in, moon out? NASA might go a different route under Isaacman</a>
A former NAVY SEAL, Kim has several accolades to his name. He studied Medicine at the Harvard Medical School and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics. In the US Navy, the 41-year-old served as a flight surgeon and naval aviator. His first space venture has him serving as a flight engineer on the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-27 spaceflight.
<h2>Kim was a distinguished student</h2>
Kim's parents immigrated to the US from South Korea in the 1980s. His father started a liquor store in South Los Angeles while his mother was a teacher. A 2020 report revealed that Kim's father used to beat him as a teenager. His father was shot dead by the police in 2002 after he pointed a gun at his family.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/artemis-astronauts-will-shift-from-orion-to-starship-in-space-to-reach-moons-surface-778617" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Artemis astronauts will shift from Orion to Starship in space to reach Moon's surface</a>
Kim was a bright student and also participated in swimming and water polo events. He received his Bachelor's degree in mathematics from the University of San Diego in 2012, and went on to become a Doctor of Medicine from Harvard Medical School in 2016. However, it was his time as a Navy SEAL that propelled him to reach for his dreams.
<h2>Kim credits Navy SEAL for his accomplishments</h2>
Kim admits that he was a shy kid in school who "lacked complete self-confidence". But things changed after he became a Navy SEAL. He started as a seaman in 2002.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/time-on-the-moon-moves-faster-than-on-earth-739482" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Time on the Moon moves faster than on Earth. This is by how much</a>
"Going into the Navy was the best decision I ever made in my life because it completely transformed that scared boy who didn't have any dreams to someone who started to believe in himself," he said in an interview.
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He completed his training at Naval Special Warfare and then reported to the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School&nbsp;in Fort Liberty for the Special Operations Combat Medic Course. He was then assigned to SEAL Team 3 with the rating Special Warfare Operator.
<h2>What led Kim to become an astronaut?</h2>
Kim has been a part of over 100 combat missions in various capacities, such as a medic, sniper, navigator, and point man. He was inspired to join NASA during his time at Harvard, where he met astronaut&ndash;physician Scott E. Parazynski. He applied to become an astronaut and was shortlisted from 18,300 applicants for NASA Astronaut Group 22.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brahmas-disc-a-puzzle-that-when-solved-will-reduce-the-world-to-dust-8928028" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">The Tower of Brahma, a puzzle that dictates when the world will end. 'With a thunderclap...'</a>
He then trained as a pilot in a program for US Navy &ndash; NASA astronauts who lacked previous military pilot experience. After completing his training, he earned the rare distinction of being a Naval flight surgeon and naval aviator.

American astronaut Jonathan Yong "Jonny" Kim went to space aboard the Russian Soyuz MS-27 capsule on April 8. He will stay there for eight months. Science & Tech | World

The Russian space agency Roscosmos launched three men to the International Space Station aboard the Soyuz MS-27 on April 8. This includes American astronaut Jonathan Yong "Jonny" Kim and two cosmonauts, Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky. The capsule launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. The trio is scheduled to reach the orbiting lab on Tuesday at 5:03 am EDT. The docking will happen at 7:20 am EDT and will be live-streamed. They will stay at the ISS for about eight months and return in December. The American astronaut onboard the Soyuz, Jonny Kim, is on his first trip to space. NASA telecast the launch live on its website and social media handles. Kim has been with NASA for only about eight years and only three years later after he joined the space agency, he was among 17 astronauts picked for the Artemis mission aimed at landing humans on the moon. Also Read: Mars in, moon out? NASA might go a different route under Isaacman A former NAVY SEAL, Kim has several accolades to his name. He studied Medicine at the Harvard Medical School and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics. In the US Navy, the 41-year-old served as a flight surgeon and naval aviator. His first space venture has him serving as a flight engineer on the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-27 spaceflight. Kim was a distinguished student Kim's parents immigrated to the US from South Korea in the 1980s. His father started a liquor store in South Los Angeles while his mother was a teacher. A 2020 report revealed that Kim's father used to beat him as a teenager. His father was shot dead by the police in 2002 after he pointed a gun at his family. Also Read: Artemis astronauts will shift from Orion to Starship in space to reach Moon's surface Kim was a bright student and also participated in swimming and water polo events. He received his Bachelor's degree in mathematics from the University of San Diego in 2012, and went on to become a Doctor of Medicine from Harvard Medical School in 2016. However, it was his time as a Navy SEAL that propelled him to reach for his dreams. Kim credits Navy SEAL for his accomplishments Kim admits that he was a shy kid in school who "lacked complete self-confidence". But things changed after he became a Navy SEAL. He started as a seaman in 2002. Also Read: Time on the Moon moves faster than on Earth. This is by how much "Going into the Navy was the best decision I ever made in my life because it completely transformed that scared boy who didn't have any dreams to someone who started to believe in himself," he said in an interview. He completed his training at Naval Special Warfare and then reported to the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School in Fort Liberty for the Special Operations Combat Medic Course. He was then assigned to SEAL Team 3 with the rating Special Warfare Operator. What led Kim to become an astronaut? Kim has been a part of over 100 combat missions in various capacities, such as a medic, sniper, navigator, and point man. He was inspired to join NASA during his time at Harvard, where he met astronaut–physician Scott E. Parazynski. He applied to become an astronaut and was shortlisted from 18,300 applicants for NASA Astronaut Group 22. Also Read: The Tower of Brahma, a puzzle that dictates when the world will end. 'With a thunderclap...' He then trained as a pilot in a program for US Navy – NASA astronauts who lacked previous military pilot experience. After completing his training, he earned the rare distinction of being a Naval flight surgeon and naval aviator.

Navy SEAL Jonny Kim blasts off to space aboard Russian Soyuz capsule. Who is he?

NASA has confirmed that asteroid 2024 YR4, initially feared to be heading toward Earth, is now on course to hit the Moon. While Earth is safe from impact in 2032, scientists are closely monitoring the asteroid’s trajectory. What does this mean for future space threats?

Asteroid that threatened to hit Earth, could collide with Moon

Asteroid headed towards Earth could now smash into the Moon

After spending more than the expected time in space, NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore returned to Earth. The agency held a press conference with the SpaceX Crew-9 astronauts to discuss the mission and more with the media.
During the exchange, Williams was asked by an Indian journalist 'how does India look from space?' Every Indian is familiar with Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma's words: 'Saare jahan se accha Hindustan humara', which loosely translates to 'Our India is the most beautiful in the universe'. Here's what Williams had to say: &ldquo;India is amazing, just amazing."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-nasa-boeing-to-be-blamed-for-sunita-williams-butch-willmores-extended-space-stay-astronauts-respond-8911400">Are NASA, Boeing to be blamed for Sunita Williams &amp; Butch Willmore&rsquo;s extended space stay? Astronauts respond</a>
Talking about India, she described her experience each time they hovered over the country. &ldquo;Every time we went over the Himalayas, Butch got some incredible pictures."
Further adding, she said, &ldquo;I have described it before; it looks like this ripple... obviously, when the plates collided, as it flows down into India, it is many, many colours. I think when you come from the east going into Gujarat and Mumbai, the fishing fleet that is off the coast gives you a little bit of a beacon, like here we come. All throughout India, I think the impression I had was this network of lights and from the bigger cities going to the smaller cities. And it was just incredible to look at night as well as during the day, highlighted by the Himalayas, which is just incredible, with the forefront going down into India."\
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-us-president-donald-trump-pay-out-of-his-pocket-to-nasa-astronauts-sunita-williams-and-butch-wilmore-for-staying-overtime-in-space-heres-what-he-said-8879824">Will Trump pay out of his pocket to Sunita Williams for staying overtime in space? Here's what he said</a>
While speaking about meeting ISRO scientists, she said, "I hope we can meet up at some point and share our experiences with as many people in India as possible because it is a great country and another wonderful democracy. That is trying to put its foot in the space countries and would love to be a part of that and help them along."
She talks of her plans to visit India: "I am sure I am going back to my father's home country and visiting people." Butch was quick to ask, 'Do you plan to take your crew members on that trip with you?'. "Absolutely," Williams responded.

Sunita Williams was asked about how India looks from space; every Indian is familiar with Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma's words. Here's what Williams had to say...World, Science and Tech

After spending more than the expected time in space, NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore returned to Earth. The agency held a press conference with the SpaceX Crew-9 astronauts to discuss the mission and more with the media. During the exchange, Williams was asked by an Indian journalist 'how does India look from space?' Every Indian is familiar with Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma's words: 'Saare jahan se accha Hindustan humara', which loosely translates to 'Our India is the most beautiful in the universe'. Here's what Williams had to say: “India is amazing, just amazing." Also read: Are NASA, Boeing to be blamed for Sunita Williams & Butch Willmore’s extended space stay? Astronauts respond Talking about India, she described her experience each time they hovered over the country. “Every time we went over the Himalayas, Butch got some incredible pictures." Further adding, she said, “I have described it before; it looks like this ripple... obviously, when the plates collided, as it flows down into India, it is many, many colours. I think when you come from the east going into Gujarat and Mumbai, the fishing fleet that is off the coast gives you a little bit of a beacon, like here we come. All throughout India, I think the impression I had was this network of lights and from the bigger cities going to the smaller cities. And it was just incredible to look at night as well as during the day, highlighted by the Himalayas, which is just incredible, with the forefront going down into India."\ Also read: Will Trump pay out of his pocket to Sunita Williams for staying overtime in space? Here's what he said While speaking about meeting ISRO scientists, she said, "I hope we can meet up at some point and share our experiences with as many people in India as possible because it is a great country and another wonderful democracy. That is trying to put its foot in the space countries and would love to be a part of that and help them along." She talks of her plans to visit India: "I am sure I am going back to my father's home country and visiting people." Butch was quick to ask, 'Do you plan to take your crew members on that trip with you?'. "Absolutely," Williams responded.

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams was asked How does India look from space? she said...

Astronauts Bush Wilmore and Sunita Williams are ready to fly again aboard the Boeing Starliner, despite being stranded in space for over 9 months due to malfunctions with the spacecraft. Now, in their first NASA press conference since returning to Earth on the 18th of March, they expressed confidence in the Starliner's capabilities and acknowledged that issues encountered during their previous mission are being addressed.

NASA astronauts Wilmore & Williams ready to conquer space again

After their extended nine months stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS), NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Willmore opened up about their time in space for the first time.
In a Fox News interview that aired on Monday (Mar 31), Williams and Willmore revealed the reason behind their delay on their flight back home.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-us-president-donald-trump-pay-out-of-his-pocket-to-nasa-astronauts-sunita-williams-and-butch-wilmore-for-staying-overtime-in-space-heres-what-he-said-8879824">Will Trump pay out of his pocket to Sunita Williams for staying overtime in space? Here's what he said</a>
<h2>Who is to blame?</h2>
Opening about the failure of the Boeing spacecraft, Willmore said that everyone, including himself, was responsible for their unplanned stay at the ISS.
&ldquo;&lsquo;They&rsquo; failed you. Who? Who&rsquo;s &lsquo;they&rsquo;?" he asked. &ldquo;There are many questions that, as the commander of CFT, I didn&rsquo;t ask, so I&rsquo;m culpable... I'll admit that to the nation.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/whats-next-for-sunita-williams-on-earth-after-nine-month-stay-in-space-8870467">What&rsquo;s next for Sunita Williams on Earth after nine-month stay in Space?</a>
&ldquo;There&rsquo;s things that I did not ask that I should have asked. I didn&rsquo;t know at the time that I needed to ask them, but, in hindsight&hellip; some of the signals were there,&rdquo; he added.
When asked whether Boeing and NASA were at fault, Willmore responded, &ldquo;Sure. Everybody has a piece in this because it did not come off. There were some shortcomings in tests and shortcomings in preparations that we did not foresee.&rdquo;
Wilmore added that he did not &ldquo;want to point fingers&rdquo; and instead wants to &ldquo;look forward&rdquo; and learn from mistakes.
<h2>Were they &lsquo;abandoned&rsquo; or &lsquo;stuck&rsquo;?</h2>
The duo also talked about claims that they were &ldquo;abandoned&rdquo; or &ldquo;stuck&rdquo; in space.
&ldquo;Okay, in certain respects, we were stuck. In certain respects, maybe we were stranded,&rdquo; he said, adding that they did not arrive on the Earth as per the plan.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-why-donald-trump-didnt-invite-sunita-williams-to-white-house-8870155">Here's why Donald Trump didn't invite Sunita Williams to White House</a>
The astronaut then mentioned they were not stuck as they were &ldquo;prepared and trained&rdquo; for this.
The pair said that despite their recent challenging journey to space, they would like to return to space again in future.
Williams and Willmore also expressed their gratitude to US President Donald Trump and Elon Musk for ensuring their safe return to Earth.
&ldquo;Our situation, I think I mentioned before, maybe wasn't the perfect situation, but allowed a lot of people, including the President and Elon, to look at what's going on on the International Space Station, take it very seriously and understand that our involvement as a country, as a space-faring nation, is really important throughout the world.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/president-murmu-to-pm-modi-india-celebrates-sunita-williams-return-to-earth-8868510">President Murmu to PM Modi&mdash; India celebrates Sunita Williams&rsquo; return to Earth</a>
<h2>Extended stay in space</h2>
Sunita Williams and Butch Willmore embarked on a 10-day mission aboard the Boeing Starliner on June 5, 2024. However, they were unable to return after the spacecraft experienced thruster malfunctions during its approach and docking manoeuvres.
Following an extensive investigation on the ground by NASA and Boeing, the spacecraft was deemed too risky to carry the astronauts back home, resulting in their unexpected extended stay at the space station.
The duo finally returned to Earth on March 18 after their extended nine-month stay on the International Space Station (ISS).
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Williams and Willmore also expressed their gratitude to US President Donald Trump and Elon Musk for ensuring their safe return to Earth.

After their extended nine months stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS), NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Willmore opened up about their time in space for the first time. In a Fox News interview that aired on Monday (Mar 31), Williams and Willmore revealed the reason behind their delay on their flight back home. Also read | Will Trump pay out of his pocket to Sunita Williams for staying overtime in space? Here's what he said Who is to blame? Opening about the failure of the Boeing spacecraft, Willmore said that everyone, including himself, was responsible for their unplanned stay at the ISS. “‘They’ failed you. Who? Who’s ‘they’?" he asked. “There are many questions that, as the commander of CFT, I didn’t ask, so I’m culpable... I'll admit that to the nation.” Also read | What’s next for Sunita Williams on Earth after nine-month stay in Space? “There’s things that I did not ask that I should have asked. I didn’t know at the time that I needed to ask them, but, in hindsight… some of the signals were there,” he added. When asked whether Boeing and NASA were at fault, Willmore responded, “Sure. Everybody has a piece in this because it did not come off. There were some shortcomings in tests and shortcomings in preparations that we did not foresee.” Wilmore added that he did not “want to point fingers” and instead wants to “look forward” and learn from mistakes. Were they ‘abandoned’ or ‘stuck’? The duo also talked about claims that they were “abandoned” or “stuck” in space. “Okay, in certain respects, we were stuck. In certain respects, maybe we were stranded,” he said, adding that they did not arrive on the Earth as per the plan. Also read | Here's why Donald Trump didn't invite Sunita Williams to White House The astronaut then mentioned they were not stuck as they were “prepared and trained” for this. The pair said that despite their recent challenging journey to space, they would like to return to space again in future. Williams and Willmore also expressed their gratitude to US President Donald Trump and Elon Musk for ensuring their safe return to Earth. “Our situation, I think I mentioned before, maybe wasn't the perfect situation, but allowed a lot of people, including the President and Elon, to look at what's going on on the International Space Station, take it very seriously and understand that our involvement as a country, as a space-faring nation, is really important throughout the world.” Also read | President Murmu to PM Modi— India celebrates Sunita Williams’ return to Earth Extended stay in space Sunita Williams and Butch Willmore embarked on a 10-day mission aboard the Boeing Starliner on June 5, 2024. However, they were unable to return after the spacecraft experienced thruster malfunctions during its approach and docking manoeuvres. Following an extensive investigation on the ground by NASA and Boeing, the spacecraft was deemed too risky to carry the astronauts back home, resulting in their unexpected extended stay at the space station. The duo finally returned to Earth on March 18 after their extended nine-month stay on the International Space Station (ISS). (With inputs from agencies)

Are NASA, Boeing to be blamed for Sunita Williams & Butch Willmore’s extended space stay? Astronauts respond

Scientists, with the help of NASA's Perseverance Mars rover, found a strange object on the Red Planet. The object looks like a cluster of hundreds of spider eggs. The team is now working hard to understand their origin and the mystery behind it. Watch this report for more details!

Spider eggs on Mars? Mysterious object spotted by NASA's Perseverance Mars Rover

NASA scientists spot strange rocks on Mars

Solar Eclipse March 2025 Date and Time: The first solar eclipse of 2025 is set to take place on March 29. However, it will be a partial solar eclipse, meaning the Moon will block only a section of the Sun.
The partial solar eclipse will be visible primarily in several parts of the Northern Hemisphere, including the northeastern United States, some sections of Canada, and Greenland.
Viewers living in the portions of Western Europe, Africa, northern Asia and South America might be able to watch the event.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/650-light-years-away-nasas-james-webb-telescope-discovers-outburst-of-a-new-solar-system-8840101">'650 light-years away': NASA's James Webb Telescope discovers outburst of a new solar system</a>
<h2>Solar eclipse be visible in India?</h2>
A partial solar eclipse will not be visible in India. However, it will occur on Saturday, March 29, and in India, the eclipse will last for approximately four hours, beginning at 2:20 PM IST and reach its peak at 4:17 PM IST, and end at 6:13 PM.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DYK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DYK</a> there&rsquo;s going to be a partial solar eclipse on March 29? During sunrise in the Northeastern U.S., the Moon will partially block the Sun from view. Coverage ranges from as little as 1% in Washington, D.C. to 64% in Portland, Maine. Find info for your location:&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/OnfuRL7QXP">pic.twitter.com/OnfuRL7QXP</a>
&mdash; NASA Sun &amp; Space (@NASASun) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASASun/status/1905349239074685167?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>How to watch the eclipse online?</h3>
For those who are not able to witness this celestial event can watch it online. NASA will reportedly live stream the eclipse, starting from 12:25 pm IST.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/nasa-finds-largest-carbon-molecules-on-mars-hinting-at-ancient-life-8888503">NASA finds largest organic molecules on Mars, hinting at ancient life</a>
<h3>How to watch the eclipse online?</h3>
For those who cannot witness this celestial event in person, NASA will reportedly live stream the eclipse, starting at 12:25 PM IST.
<h3>Is it safe to watch the eclipse?</h3>
Unlike a lunar eclipse, it is never safe to look at a solar eclipse directly with the naked eye. You must use proper eye protection to view a partial solar eclipse safely.
<h3>Are regular sunglasses safe?</h3>
No, regular sunglasses must not be used to view the eclipse. According to NASA, individuals must wear certified solar viewing glasses or eclipse glasses.
<h3>Safety tips for viewing the eclipse</h3>
1. No matter how dark sunglasses are, they are not safe for viewing the Sun.
2. Do not look at the Sun directly through a camera lens, telescope, binoculars, or any other device, even while wearing eclipse glasses. A special-purpose solar filter must be attached to the front of any device you are using.
3. If you don&rsquo;t have eclipse glasses, use an indirect viewing method, but ensure you follow proper guidelines before trying this.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

SCIENCE & TECH: The partial solar eclipse will be visible primarily in several parts of the Northern Hemisphere, including the northeastern United States, some sections of Canada, and Greenland.

Solar Eclipse March 2025 Date and Time: The first solar eclipse of 2025 is set to take place on March 29. However, it will be a partial solar eclipse, meaning the Moon will block only a section of the Sun. The partial solar eclipse will be visible primarily in several parts of the Northern Hemisphere, including the northeastern United States, some sections of Canada, and Greenland. Viewers living in the portions of Western Europe, Africa, northern Asia and South America might be able to watch the event. Also read: '650 light-years away': NASA's James Webb Telescope discovers outburst of a new solar system Solar eclipse be visible in India? A partial solar eclipse will not be visible in India. However, it will occur on Saturday, March 29, and in India, the eclipse will last for approximately four hours, beginning at 2:20 PM IST and reach its peak at 4:17 PM IST, and end at 6:13 PM. #DYK there’s going to be a partial solar eclipse on March 29? During sunrise in the Northeastern U.S., the Moon will partially block the Sun from view. Coverage ranges from as little as 1% in Washington, D.C. to 64% in Portland, Maine. Find info for your location:… pic.twitter.com/OnfuRL7QXP — NASA Sun & Space (@NASASun) March 27, 2025 How to watch the eclipse online? For those who are not able to witness this celestial event can watch it online. NASA will reportedly live stream the eclipse, starting from 12:25 pm IST. Also read: NASA finds largest organic molecules on Mars, hinting at ancient life How to watch the eclipse online? For those who cannot witness this celestial event in person, NASA will reportedly live stream the eclipse, starting at 12:25 PM IST. Is it safe to watch the eclipse? Unlike a lunar eclipse, it is never safe to look at a solar eclipse directly with the naked eye. You must use proper eye protection to view a partial solar eclipse safely. Are regular sunglasses safe? No, regular sunglasses must not be used to view the eclipse. According to NASA, individuals must wear certified solar viewing glasses or eclipse glasses. Safety tips for viewing the eclipse 1. No matter how dark sunglasses are, they are not safe for viewing the Sun. 2. Do not look at the Sun directly through a camera lens, telescope, binoculars, or any other device, even while wearing eclipse glasses. A special-purpose solar filter must be attached to the front of any device you are using. 3. If you don’t have eclipse glasses, use an indirect viewing method, but ensure you follow proper guidelines before trying this.

Partial Solar Eclipse 2025: Time, when, where and how to watch event live in India

NASA researchers conducted initial validation of a new airspace management system designed to enable crews to use aircraft to fight and monitor wildland fires 24 hours a day. Watch to know more!

NASA develops new wildland fire airspace management system

The curiosity about life on Mars has been the subject of many a scientific and commercial travail. NASA's Curiosity rover mission is exactly that—to determine whether the red planet was ever habitable to microbial life. The Curiosity rover has now found the largest organic compound that has ever been found on Mars.

NASA's rover discovers largest organic compounds yet on Mars

NASA has introduced a new tool "weekly accomplishments app", for agency workers to track their productivity. This also complies with Elon Musk's government-efficiency demands.&nbsp;
The application will act as a secured, centralised hub for submitting weekly accomplishments to direct supervisors and simplifying existing reporting processes while helping civil servants track all they are doing over the course of the year.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Today, we will debut a new tool for the &ldquo;Five Things&rdquo; request,&rdquo; Acting NASA Administrator Janet Petro told employees in an email Friday seen by Bloomberg News.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/nasa-finds-largest-carbon-molecules-on-mars-hinting-at-ancient-life-8888503">NASA finds largest organic molecules on Mars, hinting at ancient life</a>
&ldquo;This secure, internal tool makes it easier for you to track and share the incredible work you do each week.&rdquo;
"The app also provides a PowerBI dashboard view of your past accomplishments, so over time, your participation will enable data-driven insights that may help you streamline performance reviews or organizational reporting," Jeff Seaton, NASA Chief Information Officer said in a memo.
They also shared a few "important notes", saying that this tool is internal to NASA and restricted to civil servant use only.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-drops-plans-to-land-first-woman-person-of-colour-on-moon-after-trumps-dei-order-8878411">NASA drops plans to land first woman, person of colour on Moon After Trump&rsquo;s DEI order</a>
"The information collected will not be sent outside of NASA. The app serves as a communication tool between employees and their supervisors," it added.&nbsp;
The app provides a simple form for submitting five brief accomplishments every week, and the form will close every Monday at 11:59 pm local time and re-open the next day.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-trump-denies-sharing-china-war-plans-with-musk-nasa-drops-plans-to-land-first-woman-on-moon-and-more-8878451">Morning news brief: Trump denies sharing China war plans with Musk; NASA drops plans to land first woman on Moon, and more</a>
Similarly, Musk's team last month sent emails to more than two million federal employees requiring them to submit their weekly achievements over email, or face losing their jobs.&nbsp;
However, the move was criticised by many across the government. The White House further clarified that workers wouldn&rsquo;t be fired if they didn&rsquo;t respond and directed them to follow the instructions of their agency heads.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/watch-dolphins-make-butch-wilmore-and-suni-williams-welcome-on-earth-magical-8867676">WATCH: Dolphins 'welcome' Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore on Earth in magical moment from NASA splashdown</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The application will act as a centralised hub for submitting weekly accomplishments to direct supervisors and simplifying existing reporting processes.

NASA has introduced a new tool "weekly accomplishments app", for agency workers to track their productivity. This also complies with Elon Musk's government-efficiency demands. The application will act as a secured, centralised hub for submitting weekly accomplishments to direct supervisors and simplifying existing reporting processes while helping civil servants track all they are doing over the course of the year. “Today, we will debut a new tool for the “Five Things” request,” Acting NASA Administrator Janet Petro told employees in an email Friday seen by Bloomberg News. Also read: NASA finds largest organic molecules on Mars, hinting at ancient life “This secure, internal tool makes it easier for you to track and share the incredible work you do each week.” "The app also provides a PowerBI dashboard view of your past accomplishments, so over time, your participation will enable data-driven insights that may help you streamline performance reviews or organizational reporting," Jeff Seaton, NASA Chief Information Officer said in a memo. They also shared a few "important notes", saying that this tool is internal to NASA and restricted to civil servant use only. Also read: NASA drops plans to land first woman, person of colour on Moon After Trump’s DEI order "The information collected will not be sent outside of NASA. The app serves as a communication tool between employees and their supervisors," it added. The app provides a simple form for submitting five brief accomplishments every week, and the form will close every Monday at 11:59 pm local time and re-open the next day. Also read: Morning news brief: Trump denies sharing China war plans with Musk; NASA drops plans to land first woman on Moon, and more Similarly, Musk's team last month sent emails to more than two million federal employees requiring them to submit their weekly achievements over email, or face losing their jobs. However, the move was criticised by many across the government. The White House further clarified that workers wouldn’t be fired if they didn’t respond and directed them to follow the instructions of their agency heads. Also read: WATCH: Dolphins 'welcome' Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore on Earth in magical moment from NASA splashdown (With inputs from agencies)

'Track their incredible work': NASA launches 'weekly accomplishments app' for rocket scientists

NASA's Curiosity rover has found the longest carbon chains ever detected on Mars. These molecules, with up to 12 carbon atoms, were discovered in Gale Crater, an area believed to have been a lake billions of years ago.&nbsp;The research was published in PNAS.
Also Read| <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/5800-km-per-hour-chinese-hypersonic-fighter-jet-coming-test-of-afterburner-could-be-a-breakthrough-claim-researchers-8887896" aria-label="5,800 km per hour Chinese hypersonic fighter jet coming? Test of afterburner could be a breakthrough, claim researchers">5,800 km per hour Chinese hypersonic fighter jet coming? Test of afterburner could be a breakthrough, claim researchers</a>
<h2>How scientists confirmed it</h2>
An international team, led by scientist Caroline Freissinet from CNRS, studied the samples using special lab tests. The rover drilled into a mudstone deposit called Cumberland, and the team analysed the molecules by heating them to high temperatures. &nbsp;
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<h2>What It means for life on Mars</h2>
The detected molecules&mdash;decane, undecane, and dodecane&mdash;are longer than previous carbon chains found on Mars. While they could have formed without life, they are also common in biological processes on Earth. This raises the possibility that they might be traces of ancient life. &nbsp;
Also Read| <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/prostate-cancer-surgery-innovation-reduces-odds-of-post-op-erectile-dysfunction-8886130" aria-label="Prostate cancer surgery innovation reduces odds of post-op erectile dysfunction">Prostate cancer surgery innovation reduces odds of post-op erectile dysfunction</a>
&nbsp;Curiosity's mission is to search for signs of past life. These findings suggest Mars may have had the right conditions for life long ago.&nbsp;
Also Read| <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/15-million-year-old-fish-fossil-found-in-australias-desert-offers-rare-insights-8885292" aria-label="15-million-year-old fish fossil found in Australia&rsquo;s desert offers rare insights">15-million-year-old fish fossil found in Australia&rsquo;s desert offers rare insights</a>
Scientist Caroline Freissinet explained to ScienceAlert, "The fact that fragile linear molecules are still present at Mars' surface 3.7 billion years after their formation allows us to make a new statement: if life ever appeared on Mars billions of years ago, at the time life appeared on the Earth, chemical traces of this ancient life could still be present today for us to detect."
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

SCIENCE & TECH | An international team, led by scientist Caroline Freissinet from CNRS, studied the samples using special lab tests. The rover drilled into a mudstone deposit called Cumberland, and the team analysed the molecules by heating them to high temperatures.

NASA's Curiosity rover has found the longest carbon chains ever detected on Mars. These molecules, with up to 12 carbon atoms, were discovered in Gale Crater, an area believed to have been a lake billions of years ago. The research was published in PNAS. Also Read| 5,800 km per hour Chinese hypersonic fighter jet coming? Test of afterburner could be a breakthrough, claim researchers How scientists confirmed it An international team, led by scientist Caroline Freissinet from CNRS, studied the samples using special lab tests. The rover drilled into a mudstone deposit called Cumberland, and the team analysed the molecules by heating them to high temperatures. Also Read| Prodigal teen,12, builds nuclear fusion reactor at home in Memphis, FBI comes knocking What It means for life on Mars The detected molecules—decane, undecane, and dodecane—are longer than previous carbon chains found on Mars. While they could have formed without life, they are also common in biological processes on Earth. This raises the possibility that they might be traces of ancient life. Also Read| Prostate cancer surgery innovation reduces odds of post-op erectile dysfunction Curiosity's mission is to search for signs of past life. These findings suggest Mars may have had the right conditions for life long ago. Also Read| 15-million-year-old fish fossil found in Australia’s desert offers rare insights Scientist Caroline Freissinet explained to ScienceAlert, "The fact that fragile linear molecules are still present at Mars' surface 3.7 billion years after their formation allows us to make a new statement: if life ever appeared on Mars billions of years ago, at the time life appeared on the Earth, chemical traces of this ancient life could still be present today for us to detect."

NASA finds largest organic molecules on Mars, hinting at ancient life

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are back on Earth after 286 days in space. What was meant to be a short mission turned into a long ordeal due to severe technical issues with their spacecraft. They finally returned on board a spacecraft on the 19th of March. The world celebrated their safe return, but new images have sparked some serious concerns about Sunita Williams' health. Photos released by NASA show Williams looking very frail, with thinner wrists, a gaunt face, and noticeably grayer hair.

Spaceflight takes a toll on Williams: What her health means for future missions?

NASA has dropped its longstanding commitment to land the first woman and person of colour on the moon. The space agency has taken this step in response to President Donald Trump's directives to shut down diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices at US federal agencies.
<h2>First woman, first person of colour on the Moon</h2>
The promise to send the first woman, and the first person of colour, to the Moon was a central plank of NASA's Artemis programme.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-makes-rare-admission-on-musks-conflicts-of-interest-says-certainly-you-wouldnt-show-the-businessman-china-war-plans-8878296">Trump makes rare admission on Musk&rsquo;s conflicts of interest, says 'wouldn&rsquo;t show' businessman China war plans</a>
Artemis is scheduled to return humans to the surface of the moon in 2027. Before this, NASA's Apollo mission in December 1972 took humans to the lunar surface.
Orlando Sentinel reports that previously, on NASA's website, the Artemis landing page included the words: "NASA will land the first woman, first person of colour, and first international partner astronaut on the Moon using innovative technologies to explore more of the lunar surface than ever before".
Now, this phrase seems to have gone missing from the page.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/these-are-terrorists-trump-defends-musk-says-tesla-attacks-worse-than-jan-6-capitol-riot-8878054">'These are terrorists': Trump defends Musk, says Tesla attacks worse than Jan. 6 Capitol riot</a>
<h2>NASA statement</h2>
In a statement to the Guardian, NASA spokesperson Allard Beutel said that the phrase was removed in line with Trump's order.
"In keeping with the president&rsquo;s executive order, we&rsquo;re updating our language regarding plans to send crew to the lunar surface as part of NASA&rsquo;s Artemis campaign. We look forward to learning more from [and] about the Trump administration&rsquo;s plans for our agency and expanding exploration at the moon and Mars for the benefit of all," he said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-war-or-doge-cuts-inside-elon-musks-controversial-pentagon-visit-that-trump-hegseth-rushed-to-defend-8877941">China war or DOGE cuts? Inside Musk&rsquo;s controversial Pentagon visit that Trump, Hegseth rushed to defend</a>
Since Trump took power, he has issued a number of directives against "wokeness". Just days after his inauguration, the Trump administration asked federal agencies to terminate roles and offices related to DEI programmes.
"Each agency, department, or commission head shall take action to terminate, to the maximum extent allowed by law, all DEI, DEIA, and 'environmental justice' offices and positions within 60 days," said a 24 January 2025 memo from the US Office of Personnel Management, referring to jobs aimed at boosting "diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility."
(With inputs from agencies)

SCIENCE & TECH | World | NASA has scrapped its plans to land the first woman and person of colour on the Moon, aligning with Trump's directive against DEI practices.

NASA has dropped its longstanding commitment to land the first woman and person of colour on the moon. The space agency has taken this step in response to President Donald Trump's directives to shut down diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices at US federal agencies. First woman, first person of colour on the Moon The promise to send the first woman, and the first person of colour, to the Moon was a central plank of NASA's Artemis programme. Also read | Trump makes rare admission on Musk’s conflicts of interest, says 'wouldn’t show' businessman China war plans Artemis is scheduled to return humans to the surface of the moon in 2027. Before this, NASA's Apollo mission in December 1972 took humans to the lunar surface. Orlando Sentinel reports that previously, on NASA's website, the Artemis landing page included the words: "NASA will land the first woman, first person of colour, and first international partner astronaut on the Moon using innovative technologies to explore more of the lunar surface than ever before". Now, this phrase seems to have gone missing from the page. Also read | 'These are terrorists': Trump defends Musk, says Tesla attacks worse than Jan. 6 Capitol riot NASA statement In a statement to the Guardian, NASA spokesperson Allard Beutel said that the phrase was removed in line with Trump's order. "In keeping with the president’s executive order, we’re updating our language regarding plans to send crew to the lunar surface as part of NASA’s Artemis campaign. We look forward to learning more from [and] about the Trump administration’s plans for our agency and expanding exploration at the moon and Mars for the benefit of all," he said. Also read | China war or DOGE cuts? Inside Musk’s controversial Pentagon visit that Trump, Hegseth rushed to defend Since Trump took power, he has issued a number of directives against "wokeness". Just days after his inauguration, the Trump administration asked federal agencies to terminate roles and offices related to DEI programmes. "Each agency, department, or commission head shall take action to terminate, to the maximum extent allowed by law, all DEI, DEIA, and 'environmental justice' offices and positions within 60 days," said a 24 January 2025 memo from the US Office of Personnel Management, referring to jobs aimed at boosting "diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility." (With inputs from agencies)

NASA drops plans to land first woman, person of colour on Moon After Trump’s DEI order

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are back on Earth safely after the SpaceX dragon capsule carrying them made a remarkable splashdown on Tuesday. So did Nick Hague and Aleksandr Gorbunov but their homecoming was rather quiet. Watch this video to find out more.

2 NASA astronauts accompanied Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore on their trip back on Earth

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Willmore finally came back to Earth on March 18 after their extended nine-month stay on the Internation Space Station (ISS).
However, the astronauts cannot go to their homes just yet. The Crew-9 members will have to face some challenges after their return as they get acclimated to Earth&rsquo;s gravity.
So, what&rsquo;s next for Sunita Williams and her fellow astronauts?
<h2>Medical examination</h2>
Following the splashdown off the Florida coast, Sunita Williams, Butch Willmore, Nick Hague and Aleksandr Gorbunov have to undergo medical examinations as a standard procedure. The astronauts will face physical challenges like muscle atrophy and balance issues due to their long stay in microgravity conditions in space.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-why-donald-trump-didnt-invite-sunita-williams-to-white-house-8870155">Here's why Donald Trump didn't invite Sunita Williams to White House</a>
<h2>Rehabilitation</h2>
After the initial medical examination, the astronauts will be transported to Johnson Space Center in Houston. The crew member will undergo several medical checkups and procedures to assess their health following long exposure to microgravity. Before the astronauts can return to their homes, they will stay for 45 days for an extensive rehabilitation program, which will be conducted in three phases.&nbsp;
In the first phase, the astronauts will work out to regain their strength, flexibility and ability to walk. The next phase will focus on strengthening their bodies further, improving brain functioning and doing exercises for cardio reconditioning. The last phase, which will be the longest, will include functional development training so the astronauts return to their best physical abilities.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/president-murmu-to-pm-modi-india-celebrates-sunita-williams-return-to-earth-8868510">President Murmu to PM Modi&mdash; India celebrates Sunita Williams&rsquo; return to Earth</a>
<h2>Debriefings</h2>
The astronauts will take part in post-mission debriefings to discuss their experience in detail. They will share the challenges they faced, experiments and studies they conducted, their achievements, and feedback on the Boeing Starliner spacecraft&rsquo;s performance.
<h2>Family reunion</h2>
Personal time and reconnecting with family and friends play an important role in astronauts&rsquo; psychological well-being. Earlier, Williams said that she was looking forward to returning home and meeting her family and dogs.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/watch-dolphins-make-butch-wilmore-and-suni-williams-welcome-on-earth-magical-8867676">WATCH: Dolphins 'welcome' Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore on Earth in magical moment from NASA splashdown</a>
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s been a roller coaster for them, probably a little bit more so than for us,&rdquo; she said.
<h2>Health Challenges</h2>
Due to prolonged stay in the absence of gravity, the astronauts may experience dizziness, nausea and balance issues. Astronauts face difficulties in walking and experience &ldquo;baby feet&rdquo;, in which their feet lose the thick part of the skin and become soft like a baby&rsquo;s. Astronauts may also lose their vision temporarily and face cognitive decline after returning to Earth.
In space, the bodily fluids and blood redistribute and may result in swelling in the upper body. After returning to Earth, the astronauts are forced to readjust to gravity. The astronauts may experience orthostatic hypotension, which is a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing, as their heart has to work harder to pump blood to the head. This may also affect their cardiovascular health.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/promise-made-promise-kept-says-white-house-as-astronauts-reach-home-safely-musk-congrats-spacex-nasa-8867638">Sunita Williams returns: 'PROMISE MADE, PROMISE KEPT, says White House as astronauts reach home safely, Musk praises SpaceX, NASA</a>
The astronauts may also lose bone density and muscle and face skin problems. Due to exposure to radiation in space, the astronauts also face an increased risk of cancer.
(With inputs from agencies)

Science & tech | The Crew-9 members will have to face some challenges after their return as they get acclimated to Earth’s gravity. So, what’s next for Sunita Williams and her fellow astronauts?

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Willmore finally came back to Earth on March 18 after their extended nine-month stay on the Internation Space Station (ISS). However, the astronauts cannot go to their homes just yet. The Crew-9 members will have to face some challenges after their return as they get acclimated to Earth’s gravity. So, what’s next for Sunita Williams and her fellow astronauts? Medical examination Following the splashdown off the Florida coast, Sunita Williams, Butch Willmore, Nick Hague and Aleksandr Gorbunov have to undergo medical examinations as a standard procedure. The astronauts will face physical challenges like muscle atrophy and balance issues due to their long stay in microgravity conditions in space. Also read | Here's why Donald Trump didn't invite Sunita Williams to White House Rehabilitation After the initial medical examination, the astronauts will be transported to Johnson Space Center in Houston. The crew member will undergo several medical checkups and procedures to assess their health following long exposure to microgravity. Before the astronauts can return to their homes, they will stay for 45 days for an extensive rehabilitation program, which will be conducted in three phases. In the first phase, the astronauts will work out to regain their strength, flexibility and ability to walk. The next phase will focus on strengthening their bodies further, improving brain functioning and doing exercises for cardio reconditioning. The last phase, which will be the longest, will include functional development training so the astronauts return to their best physical abilities. Also read | President Murmu to PM Modi— India celebrates Sunita Williams’ return to Earth Debriefings The astronauts will take part in post-mission debriefings to discuss their experience in detail. They will share the challenges they faced, experiments and studies they conducted, their achievements, and feedback on the Boeing Starliner spacecraft’s performance. Family reunion Personal time and reconnecting with family and friends play an important role in astronauts’ psychological well-being. Earlier, Williams said that she was looking forward to returning home and meeting her family and dogs. Also read | WATCH: Dolphins 'welcome' Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore on Earth in magical moment from NASA splashdown “It’s been a roller coaster for them, probably a little bit more so than for us,” she said. Health Challenges Due to prolonged stay in the absence of gravity, the astronauts may experience dizziness, nausea and balance issues. Astronauts face difficulties in walking and experience “baby feet”, in which their feet lose the thick part of the skin and become soft like a baby’s. Astronauts may also lose their vision temporarily and face cognitive decline after returning to Earth. In space, the bodily fluids and blood redistribute and may result in swelling in the upper body. After returning to Earth, the astronauts are forced to readjust to gravity. The astronauts may experience orthostatic hypotension, which is a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing, as their heart has to work harder to pump blood to the head. This may also affect their cardiovascular health. Also read | Sunita Williams returns: 'PROMISE MADE, PROMISE KEPT, says White House as astronauts reach home safely, Musk praises SpaceX, NASA The astronauts may also lose bone density and muscle and face skin problems. Due to exposure to radiation in space, the astronauts also face an increased risk of cancer. (With inputs from agencies)

What’s next for Sunita Williams on Earth after nine-month stay in Space?

A pod of dolphins swam up to the spot where the SpaceX Dragon capsule splashed down on Tuesday off Florida's coast. The capsule carried four astronauts, including NASA's Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who spent an unplanned 280 days on the International Space Station

NASA astronauts receives heartwarming welcome from pod of dolphins

First images of NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore emerged as they finally returned to Earth on Tuesday after an unexpected nine-month stay at International Space Station (ISS). They received immediate medical care and were carried away on stretchers.

Astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore return home after 9 months in space

What do astronauts see when they are in space? Earth, the moon, and maybe an occasional space rock. One of them apparently was told by fellow astronauts that they saw UFOs in space. During the Apollo missions, several astronauts landed on the moon. The wife of one such astronaut has now shared secrets he told him.&nbsp;
Talking to Daily Mail, Anita Mitchell, the wife of late NASA pilot Edgar Mitchell, said that "many of the pilots and astronauts had seen something", and so he also felt that something was out there. Edgar was the sixth man to walk on the moon in 1971 and was part of the Apollo 14 crew.
She claimed that these sightings happened during America's early space missions. Apollo astronaut James McDivitt was reportedly one of the many who saw UFOs in space, according to Anita. It was not only in space, but some of them also reported seeing strange craft while flying conventional planes over Earth.
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<h2>Astronauts claimed to have 'seen something'</h2>
Recalling a party where Project Mercury astronaut Leroy Gordon Cooper Jr. was with them, Anita said, "I remember Gordy telling us that he had seen something." The astronaut added that what he had seen was extremely fast and that they had nothing "that goes that fast and goes that high".
Cooper was one of the most experienced NASA pilots, but Anita claims that he admitted that despite seeing the UFOs, American pilots could never catch them.&nbsp;
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She says that astronauts she met at the time believed that space had "something there technology-wise" and even she thinks there are others out there.
<h2>Edgar wanted information about strange sightings to be made public&nbsp;</h2>
Anita has released a book titled "You Don't Look Like An Astronaut's Wife" in which she has revealed that her husband, who died in 2016, had asked the US government to release information about the strange sightings to the public since they might be linked to aliens.&nbsp;
Edgar had on several occasions requested the government to do so. In 2009, Mitchell went public with his demand and called on the government to release information about UFOs he thought it was hiding. He was one of the believers in extraterrestrial life.
"Do you really think we are the only intelligence in the universe? Because if we are, the universe is in trouble," she added.
Meanwhile, Anita says being an astronaut's wife was "like a different universe" and she loved being a part of that world.

Late NASA pilot Edgar Mitchell believed that something was out there. His wife says that many astronauts told her they saw strange things during missions. Science & Tech Trending

What do astronauts see when they are in space? Earth, the moon, and maybe an occasional space rock. One of them apparently was told by fellow astronauts that they saw UFOs in space. During the Apollo missions, several astronauts landed on the moon. The wife of one such astronaut has now shared secrets he told him. Talking to Daily Mail, Anita Mitchell, the wife of late NASA pilot Edgar Mitchell, said that "many of the pilots and astronauts had seen something", and so he also felt that something was out there. Edgar was the sixth man to walk on the moon in 1971 and was part of the Apollo 14 crew. She claimed that these sightings happened during America's early space missions. Apollo astronaut James McDivitt was reportedly one of the many who saw UFOs in space, according to Anita. It was not only in space, but some of them also reported seeing strange craft while flying conventional planes over Earth. Also Read: 'A point where time begins': Black holes are portals into another point in universe? Astronauts claimed to have 'seen something' Recalling a party where Project Mercury astronaut Leroy Gordon Cooper Jr. was with them, Anita said, "I remember Gordy telling us that he had seen something." The astronaut added that what he had seen was extremely fast and that they had nothing "that goes that fast and goes that high". Cooper was one of the most experienced NASA pilots, but Anita claims that he admitted that despite seeing the UFOs, American pilots could never catch them. Also Read: 'Death sentence for star formation', yet Andromeda XXXV survived. How? She says that astronauts she met at the time believed that space had "something there technology-wise" and even she thinks there are others out there. Edgar wanted information about strange sightings to be made public Anita has released a book titled "You Don't Look Like An Astronaut's Wife" in which she has revealed that her husband, who died in 2016, had asked the US government to release information about the strange sightings to the public since they might be linked to aliens. Edgar had on several occasions requested the government to do so. In 2009, Mitchell went public with his demand and called on the government to release information about UFOs he thought it was hiding. He was one of the believers in extraterrestrial life. "Do you really think we are the only intelligence in the universe? Because if we are, the universe is in trouble," she added. Meanwhile, Anita says being an astronaut's wife was "like a different universe" and she loved being a part of that world.

Have astronauts come across UFOs in space? Wife of former astronaut claims they did

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