Houston, Texas — Astronauts aboard the International Space Station are preparing to enjoy a Thanksgiving feast in orbit. NASA astronaut Suni Williams shared that she and her crewmates will have the day off to celebrate, complete with Thanksgiving-inspired menu items like smoked turkey, cranberry, apple cobbler, green beans, mushrooms, and mashed potatoes.
Williams mentioned that they plan to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade before indulging in their meal alongside American and Russian colleagues. The crew, which includes Williams and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, has been living and working at the space station for nearly six months since arriving in early June.
Initially scheduled for a brief week-long stay before returning to Earth aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, complications with the vehicle led to an extended mission for Wilmore and Williams. The duo is now set to return home in February using a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule, marking the end of a challenging journey that saw the pair overcome setbacks and delays.
Addressing concerns about her health in space, Williams reassured the public that she and her fellow astronauts are in good condition and enjoying their time in orbit. Despite the obstacles faced during the Starliner mission, Williams expressed optimism about the future of space travel and her willingness to fly on the spacecraft again once necessary improvements are implemented.
While the journey has not been without its challenges, Williams remains upbeat and focused on the mission at hand. With plans for a safe return to Earth in place, the crew continues their work aboard the International Space Station, embodying the spirit of exploration and perseverance that defines human spaceflight. As they look forward to the coming months, Williams and her colleagues remain dedicated to their mission and eager to contribute to the advancement of space exploration.