Sunita Williams cannot return immediately, despite the rescue spacecraft docking, likely stems from several factors related to space mission protocols:
Spacecraft Safety Checks: Even though the spacecraft has docked, thorough safety checks must be conducted. Engineers need to ensure that all systems on the spacecraft are functioning properly before the crew can board it and safely return to Earth.
Crew Transition Process: The transition from one crew to another involves detailed procedures, including transferring critical equipment, science experiments, and preparing the spacecraft for its return journey. This process can take time.
Medical Evaluations: Astronauts undergo medical assessments to ensure they are in good health before enduring the stress of re-entry and gravity after an extended time in space.
Weather Conditions: The timing of a return depends heavily on the landing site's weather conditions. SpaceX, like NASA, needs optimal conditions for a safe landing, whether it is a land or water landing.
Mission Objectives: Sometimes, astronauts are required to complete specific tasks or experiments before they can leave the International Space Station (ISS). If Sunita Williams or her colleagues have pending mission objectives, that could delay the return God save all problem