NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams have finally returned to Earth after an unexpected nine-month stay in space. Here's what happened…

Launched in June 2024 as the first crew of Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, their mission was initially planned to last just 8 days. However, technical issues with the Starliner's propulsion system forced NASA to extend their stay and arrange their return using a SpaceX capsule.

On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, they safely splashed down off the coast of Florida at 5:57 p.m. ET, marking the end of their extended journey.

During their time aboard the International Space Station (ISS), Wilmore and Williams remained highly productive. They conducted scientific experiments, performed spacewalks, and even assisted with maintenance tasks, such as repairing the station’s plumbing—demonstrating that no job is too small for astronauts.

To counteract the effects of microgravity, they adhered to a rigorous exercise regimen, using treadmills and resistance machines to preserve their bone density and muscle strength.

They also enjoyed some unique experiences, such as a festive Christmas dinner featuring smoked oysters, lobster, duck foie gras, and more—proving that life in space can still include moments of indulgence.

Throughout their mission, they stayed connected with their families via email and phone calls, maintaining a vital link between Earth and the ISS.

While nine months is a significant duration, it falls short of the record for the longest time spent in space. American astronaut Frank Rubio holds the U.S. record at 371 days, while Russian cosmonaut Valeri Polyakov spent an incredible 437 consecutive days in orbit.

Extended stays in space pose serious challenges to the human body, including bone and muscle loss, vision impairments, and immune system dysfunction. Now back on Earth, Wilmore and Williams will undergo comprehensive medical evaluations to assess the impact of their prolonged mission.

Though their mission lasted far longer than anticipated, their resilience and dedication have provided invaluable insights for the future of space exploration. Welcome home, astronauts!