Though you are thousands of miles away, you remain close to our hearts; you must visit India with your family," Modi's letter to Sunita Williams.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi writes to Sunita Williams, inviting her to visit India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written a letter to astronaut Sunita Williams, inviting her and her family to visit India.

Wishing Sunita and her colleague Butch Wilmore a safe journey, Modi wrote, "Recently, I met renowned astronaut Mr. Mike Massimino at an event. During our conversation, your name came up. We are incredibly proud of you and your work. After that discussion, I could not resist writing to you," the Prime Minister mentioned in his letter to Williams.

Modi also extended his best wishes to Sunita’s husband, Michael Williams, and to her crewmate Barry Wilmore, who is returning with her. "Though you are thousands of miles away, you remain close to our hearts. All 1.4 billion Indians take pride in your achievements," he added.

The Prime Minister mentioned that Sunita’s mother, Bonnie Pandya, must be eagerly waiting for her return. "After your return, we eagerly look forward to welcoming you to India. It would be a matter of joy for India to host one of its finest daughters," Modi said.

The return journey of the Crew-9 team from the International Space Station is currently underway. Sunita Williams and three other crew members are traveling back to Earth aboard SpaceX’s Dragon Freedom spacecraft. The spacecraft is expected to arrive on Earth early Wednesday morning.