Mission STS-118: Sunita Williams’ key role in advancing the ISS; including her spacewalks

In August 2007, just a year after her historic STS 116-mission, Sunita Williams was called back into space for a second mission which is STS-118 aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour. This mission’s focus was on continuing the assembly and maintenance of the International  Space Station. The work on the ISS was vital for the success of long-term human habitation in space, and William’s role in the mission was critical.

Also Read: When Sunita William joined NASA: A dream took flight!

As a mission specialist, she was responsible for operating the shuttle’s robotic arm which was essential in maneuvering large components into place on the ISS. Her tasks included installing a new truss segment and conducting a spacewalk to install solar arrays to enhance the ISS’s power generation capabilities. 

Williams’ time aboard the Endeavour was filled with high-stakes technical operations, but she also had the unique experience of setting a personal record. During this mission, she became the first woman to perform four spacewalks, surpassing the previous record for female astronauts. This was a remarkable achievement, showcasing her expertise and physical prowess in one of the most physically demanding environments known to humankind. 

Each spacewalk she completed required her to carefully navigate the vacuum of space, all while coordinating with other crew members and controlling delicate equipment. Her work on the STS-118 mission contributed immensely to the functionality and future of the ISS, ensuring that it would be equipped to handle future missions and research projects.

Additionally, Williams conducted scientific experiments during her time aboard the Endeavour, which contributed to NASA's ongoing understanding of how space conditions affect human health. Her second spaceflight demonstrated not only her technical competence but also her leadership abilities, as she helped manage the complex interactions between the crew and the ground support team. It was a mission that reinforced her status as one of NASA's most skilled astronauts, capable of handling the challenges of space with grace and precision.