Their mission was originally set to last only a week, but was dramatically altered after a malfunction with the Boeing CST-100 Starliner spacecraft, which delayed their return. The failure of the Boeing Starliner turned what was supposed to be a short-term mission into an extended stay, filled with technical issues and uncertainty.

Despite the setbacks, the mission also showcased NASA’s contingency planning and resilience in the face of unforeseen circumstances. “We are just thrilled to be back and thankful for the incredible work by the teams on the ground that made this mission a success,” Wilmore said.

For Williams, who has spent an impressive 322 days in space, the mission was both an achievement and a testament to the ability to overcome unexpected challenges. She said, “Every day in space is a new adventure, but there are moments when you realise how critical it is to work together and adapt to unexpected situations.”

You can follow our live blog for the latest details on her descent to Earth.