NASA astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) are embracing the holiday season, celebrating Christmas in space with unique traditions that set them apart from those back on Earth. Sunita Williams and her crew have made the most of their extraordinary environment, sharing festive cheer and connecting with loved ones despite the vast distance.
The ISS crew plans to recreate familiar holiday customs, including special meals prepared with ingredients sent from Earth. They will also connect with family and friends through video calls, allowing them to share moments of joy and gratitude. To add a magical touch to their celebrations, the astronauts can witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets while orbiting our planet.
In addition to personal celebrations, Williams and her fellow astronauts are participating in educational outreach efforts. They will engage with students on Earth through live video sessions, sharing insights about life in space and encouraging young minds to explore science and technology.
The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, which recently departed the ISS after delivering supplies and gifts for the crew, is set to make a parachute-assisted splashdown off the coast of Florida upon re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere.
Source: https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/christmas-in-space-sunita-williams-and-crew-in-holiday-mood-as-dragon-departs-2650912-2024-12-17