Diwali in space: NASA astronaut Sunita Williams shares heartfelt greetings from ISS to world | WATCH

World News: NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, who has been stationed aboard the International Space Station (ISS) for nearly five months, extended heartfelt Diwali wishes to those celebrating the festival worldwide. In a unique and moving video message from space, the Indian-American astronaut expressed gratitude for her cultural heritage and emphasized Diwali’s universal message of hope and light.

Celebrating Diwali from 260 Miles Above Earth

"Greetings from the ISS," Williams began, offering her warmest wishes to all celebrating Diwali at the White House and across the globe. Notably, this Diwali holds special significance for Williams as she celebrates it from 260 miles above Earth, an experience she describes as a rare opportunity to reflect on the festival’s values in a new light. Reflecting on her father’s efforts to instill cultural roots, she shared how he taught her and her family about the meaning of Diwali and other Indian festivals.

#WATCH | Washington DC | White House Diwali Celebrations | NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams shares a video message on Diwali from the International Space Station.

She says, "Greetings from the ISS. I want to extend my warmest wishes for a Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating… pic.twitter.com/YEv3wNAxW9

— ANI (@ANI) October 28, 2024

A Message of Light and Hope from Space

Williams’ message comes as a tribute to her heritage and a reminder of Diwali's meaning: the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness. “Diwali is a time of joy as goodness in the world prevails,” she said, underscoring the importance of unity and resilience.

Gratitude to Leaders Celebrating Diversity

She also extended gratitude to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for their involvement in Diwali celebrations, noting their support in honoring the community’s contributions. "Thank you to the President and Vice President for celebrating Diwali with our community and recognizing its contributions," Williams said, underscoring her appreciation for their acknowledgment of cultural diversity.

An Extended Mission Aboard the ISS

Stationed on the ISS since June, Williams and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore launched aboard Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, marking its first crewed flight. Although Starliner returned to Earth without its crew in September, Williams and Wilmore are expected to continue their duties aboard the ISS until February 2025, transforming a week-long test mission into an extended eight-month stay.