Sunita Williams

Sunita Williams (September 19, 1965) is an American astronaut and United States Navy officer of Indian-American descent. She holds the records for longest single space flight by a woman, total spacewalks by a woman, and most spacewalk time for a woman.

Early life and education

Williams was born in Euclid, Ohio, to Indian American parents. She completed her schooling from Needham High School in Needham, Massachusetts, in 1983. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Science from the United States Naval Academy in 1987, and a Master of Science degree in Engineering Management from Florida Institute of Technology in 1995.

Career

Williams was commissioned an ensign in the United States Navy in May 1987. After a six-month temporary assignment at the Naval Coastal System Command, she was designated a Basic Diving Officer. She then reported to the Naval Air Training Command, where she was designated a Naval Aviator in July 1989. She has logged more than 3,000 flight hours in more than 30 aircraft types.

In June 1998, Williams was selected by NASA as an astronaut candidate and reported to the Johnson Space Center in August 1998. She has served in various roles including as a flight engineer for Expedition 14/15 to the International Space Station.

Records

Williams holds the record for the longest single space flight by a woman, at 195 days. She also holds the record for total spacewalks by a woman (seven) and most spacewalk time for a woman (50 hours, 40 minutes).

Personal life

Williams is married and has a daughter. She enjoys running, swimming, biking, triathlons, windsurfing, snowboarding, and bow hunting.

See also

• List of female astronauts
• Indian Americans in science and technology
• Women in space