In her first interview after returning to Earth, Sunita Williams spoke on Monday about her extended time in space and the breathtaking views of India, including Mumbai, from the International Space Station (ISS). Williams, along with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, shared how they made the most of the situation after discovering they would be stranded in space for a longer period than planned. As she described the view of India from orbit, she once again expressed her deep admiration for the country, calling it “amazing.”

Williams, who is of Indian heritage, recalled her unforgettable views of the Himalayas, the coastline, and the city lights across the country. She further shared, “When you come from the east, going into Gujarat and Mumbai, the fishing fleet off the coast gives you a little beacon that here we come.”

She also highlighted the network of lights stretching across India, from larger cities to smaller towns, creating a beautiful sight both during the day and at night. “It’s just incredible to look at,” Williams added.

Williams also expressed enthusiasm for India’s increasing involvement in space exploration, particularly with the upcoming Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), which will feature Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla as the mission pilot. Williams, who holds deep personal ties to India through her father, Deepak Pandya, who hailed from Gujarat, praised the country’s growing presence in space.

When asked by her fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore if she planned to take her crew members to India with her, Williams laughed and said, “Absolutely. You might stick out a little bit, but that’s okay. We’ll get you all primed with some spicy food, it will be good.”