From ISS Commander to Space Marathoner: Sunita Williams’ Journey Explained

After three decades with NASA, astronaut Sunita Williams has officially retired, closing a career that blended grit, record-breaking endurance and quiet trailblazing. Her career also involves commanding the International Space Station to running a marathon in orbit.

Here’s a closer look at the milestones that defined her extraordinary journey.

When did Sunita Williams join NASA?

Sunita Williams joined NASA in 1998 as part of that year’s astronaut class. Before her selection, she served as a US Navy aviator and test pilot, logging more than 3,000 flight hours across over 30 aircraft types.

How many space missions did she fly?

Williams flew three missions during her NASA career. Her first launched in December 2006 aboard Space Shuttle Discovery to the International Space Station, followed by two long-duration expeditions that cemented her legacy.

Why is her “space marathon” so famous?

In April 2007, Williams became the first person to run a marathon in space. While orbiting Earth aboard the ISS, she completed the Boston Marathon on a treadmill using a harness system to stay anchored in microgravity, finishing in about 4 hours and 24 minutes.

What’s the story behind her “space hair”?

In microgravity, hair floats freely—there’s no gravity to tame it. Williams once joked about the phenomenon, and US President Donald Trump reportedly nicknamed her “the woman with wild hair,” a reminder of life without gravity.

How much total time did she spend in space?

Across her three missions, Williams spent a remarkable 608 days in space—nearly two full years in orbit—placing her among the most experienced astronauts in history.

Did Sunita Williams command the International Space Station?

Yes. Williams served as Commander of the ISS during Expedition 33, becoming only the second woman to lead the orbital laboratory, overseeing operations, research and crew safety.

What major records did she break?

Williams once held the record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman at 195 days. She also set records for the most spacewalks and total spacewalk time by a female astronaut, though some have since been surpassed.

How many spacewalks did she complete?

She conducted seven spacewalks, spending a total of 62 hours outside the spacecraft. These missions involved complex repairs, equipment installations and maintenance of the ISS.

Did she really lose a camera during a spacewalk?

Yes. During a seven-hour spacewalk in 2007, Williams accidentally let go of a NASA camera, which drifted away into orbit—becoming part of the thousands of tracked debris objects circling Earth.

What is Sunita Williams’ lasting legacy?

Williams redefined what was possible in spaceflight—proving one could be a commander, record-setter and marathon runner in orbit. She inspired generations, particularly women and people of Indian origin, to pursue science and exploration.

(With inputs from yMedia)