Bonnie Pandya, the mother of renowned NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, has downplayed concerns and speculation surrounding her daughter’s prolonged stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS). In a recent interview with NewsNation, Pandya emphasised that astronauts are trained for extended missions and that her daughter remains in high spirits despite the unexpected extension of her trip.

“It’s what they do. They like doing this, and they are honoured to be able to go up on a long mission like this. They feel great about it,” Pandya stated, expressing her pride in Williams’ commitment to space exploration.

Williams, along with fellow astronaut Barry “Butch” Wilmore, was initially scheduled for a much shorter stay on the ISS. However, due to technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, their mission has stretched far beyond the expected duration. While concerns have been raised about their health and well-being, Pandya reassured that her daughter is in excellent condition and adapting well.

Sunita Williams’ Mother Speaks On Daughter’s Fitness In Space

“She’s doing great,” Pandya told NewsNation. “I just spoke to her this morning. They exercise for two, two-and-a-half hours every day.” NASA mandates a rigorous workout routine to counteract muscle and bone deterioration in microgravity, and Williams has even reported gaining muscle while in space.

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Sunita Williams’ Mom Dismisses Political Claims

Despite reassurances from NASA about the astronauts’ health, public figures including US President Donald Trump and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk have questioned the delay in bringing Williams and Wilmore back to Earth. Musk suggested that political factors were at play, implying that the astronauts were stranded unnecessarily.

However, Pandya dismissed the notion that her daughter’s extended mission is tied to politics. “I don’t think it should be political,” she said. “She’s doing what she loves. So how could I feel sad about it or anything? I’m happy for her.”

Williams herself has remained focused on the mission, continuing her work on scientific experiments and space station operations. NASA has reiterated that the astronauts are being closely monitored and that their safety remains a top priority.

While speculation continues, Pandya remains unwavering in her confidence in both her daughter and NASA’s mission objectives. “These things happen when you’re a top astronaut,” she acknowledged. “It was kind of shocking at first, but we understand.”

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With no confirmed date for their return, Williams and Wilmore continue to contribute to critical research aboard the ISS. Pandya’s words serve as a reminder of the resilience and dedication required for space travel, highlighting the personal sacrifices astronauts make in the pursuit of scientific progress.