Dolphins welcome SpaceX's Crew-9 astronauts home after splashdown
- Sara Habib
- March 21, 2025
- 9:00 am
- 44
- Current Affairs
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore, Nick Hague, and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov have returned to Earth after spending nine months in space. Their journey ended as SpaceX’s Dragon capsule splashed down off Florida’s coast. A surprising sight welcomed them—dolphins swimming near the capsule while the recovery team worked.
A Longer Mission Than Planned
The mission was supposed to last only eight days. However, technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft extended their stay. NASA later reassigned them to Crew-9. In September, SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft finally brought them home.
Effects of Space Travel on Astronauts
Spending months in space affects the human body. The astronauts will now follow a 45-day rehabilitation program in Houston. This helps them adjust to Earth’s gravity. It also helps them regain strength after a long time in weightlessness.
Crew-10 Takes Over the ISS
While they return to normal life, Crew-10 has taken over duties at the International Space Station (ISS). They continue essential research and experiments to advance space exploration.
A Historic Mission for NASA and SpaceX
This return is a major success for NASA and SpaceX. It proves that space missions are evolving and becoming more reliable. The unexpected dolphin sighting was a reminder of nature’s wonders, even during technological milestones.
NASA Official Website – Learn more about space missions and research.
SpaceX Official Website – Explore the latest advancements in space travel.
