From spacewalks to marathon in orbit: A look back at Sunita Williams’ historic 608 days in space and 27-year astronaut career

Sunita Williams Retires after 27 years (Image: NASA)

Sunita Williams has retired from NASA after a remarkable 27-year career marked by three space missions and 608 days in orbit. Her achievements include record-breaking spacewalks, leadership aboard the International Space Station, and contributions to future Moon and Mars missions.

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NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has retired after completing a remarkable 27-year career, marked by extended space missions, leadership aboard the International Space Station, and record-setting achievements that reshaped human spaceflight.

Williams officially retired on December 27, 2025, NASA confirmed. Her departure followed an unusually long mission originally planned for ten days. That mission stretched into nearly nine and a half months aboard the ISS. NASA described the extension as historic and operationally significant. The agency said her career helped strengthen future Moon and Mars plans.

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman praised Williams for sustained leadership. He said her work advanced science, technology, and commercial missions. He also credited her with helping prepare Artemis lunar missions. NASA released the statement announcing her retirement on Tuesday.

A Career Defined by Missions and Endurance

Williams joined NASA’s astronaut programme in 1998 after naval service. Her first spaceflight launched on December 9, 2006. She travelled aboard Space Shuttle Discovery during mission STS-116. Williams served as flight engineer during Expeditions 14 and 15. She completed four spacewalks totalling over 29 hours. That achievement set a record at the time.

Her second mission began on July 14, 2012. Williams launched from Kazakhstan aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft. She spent 127 days aboard the ISS. During Expeditions 32 and 33, she later became commander. She conducted three demanding spacewalks repairing station systems. The mission included fixing an ammonia leak.

Her third and longest mission began in June 2024. Williams launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner with astronaut Butch Wilmore. The mission extended unexpectedly due to spacecraft decisions. Both astronauts joined Expeditions 71 and 72. They returned safely in March 2025 aboard SpaceX Dragon.

Records Set During 608 Days in Space

Across three missions, Williams logged 608 days in space. That total ranks second among NASA astronauts historically. She also ranks sixth for the longest single American spaceflight. Williams completed nine spacewalks during her career. Her total spacewalking time reached 62 hours 6 minutes. That remains the highest by any female astronaut.

Williams also became the first person to run a marathon in space. NASA highlighted that achievement as symbolic of endurance. Her operational experience influenced astronaut training programmes. She later served as deputy chief of NASA’s Astronaut Office.

What Her Retirement Means for Spaceflight

Williams was born in Euclid, Ohio, NASA confirmed. Her father originated from Gujarat’s Mehsana district. She considers Needham, Massachusetts, her hometown. Outside work, she enjoys aviation projects and outdoor activities.

In a NASA statement, Williams called space her favourite place. She thanked colleagues for supporting her career. She said the ISS made future exploration possible. NASA said her legacy will guide upcoming missions. The agency noted her contributions remain foundational for human spaceflight.