NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has inspired countless students, scientists, and space enthusiasts with her groundbreaking space missions. Her connection with students in India dates back to her two visits to Vasant Valley School in Delhi — first in 2003 and then again in 2007. During these visits, she shared insights on space travel, life in zero gravity, and the legacy of Kalpana Chawla, leaving a lasting impression on young minds.
First Visit in 2003
Sunita Williams first visited Vasant Valley School in 2003 alongside fellow astronauts Tracy Caldwell and Janet Kavandi, and Jean-Pierre Harrison, the husband of Kalpana Chawla. The visit focused on Kalpana Chawla’s contributions to space research and the challenges she faced.
Williams discussed NASA’s rigorous training process, which combines theoretical learning with hands-on experience in flight simulators. Students were given an exclusive viewing of a documentary on Kalpana Chawla’s life, followed by a Q&A session where Williams addressed questions about space missions and the Columbia shuttle disaster.
“Columbia was chosen for the mission because of its weight and lack of docking capability for space station missions,” the astronauts explained.
Experiments and Life in Space
Williams and her team also shared details about the various experiments conducted aboard the shuttle, particularly in earth sciences and biosciences. Some experiments examined the effects of microgravity on the human body, while others focused on the behavior of flames in space.
Williams reassured students that while adjusting to zero gravity takes a few minutes, it quickly becomes second nature.
“You have to be very physically fit and take your body seriously,” Williams said when asked about the requirements to become an astronaut.
Second Visit in 2007
When Sunita Williams returned to Vasant Valley School in 2007, excitement among students was palpable. She presented a film about her time in space and answered questions about her training and selection as an astronaut.
Williams shared an interesting story about an experiment conducted by Russian astronauts who hatched bird eggs in space. The baby birds, unfamiliar with gravity, flew in circles, unable to control their movements.
“Initially, I felt like a bird, too, but afterward, it was more like a fish—I had to continuously float and catch stuff, like food, with my mouth, the way fish do!” Williams joked.
Love for Samosas and Indian Roots
Not all questions were about science. A student asked Williams if she still liked samosas despite being offered them everywhere.
With a smile, she responded, “Of course I do!” Williams’ father is of Indian origin, and she has often expressed pride in her Indian heritage.
Inspiring Future Astronauts
When asked for advice for aspiring astronauts, Williams left students with a simple yet powerful message:
“Well, why not?”
Conclusion
Sunita Williams’ visits to Vasant Valley School inspired students to dream big and pursue careers in science and space exploration. Her experiences, from record-setting spacewalks to life in zero gravity, offered a glimpse into the challenges and excitement of being an astronaut. Her legacy continues to motivate young minds to explore the possibilities beyond Earth.
