Saudi astronauts Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali Al-Qarni returned to Earth safely on Wednesday after a 10-day mission to the International Space Station (ISS).

The SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule carrying the two astronauts and their two fellow crewmates, retired NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson and John Shoffner, parachuted into the Gulf of Mexico off the Florida panhandle at 7:10 a.m. EDT.

Barnawi, who became the first Arab woman to go on a space mission, and Al-Qarni conducted a variety of scientific experiments during their time on the ISS. Their research focused on the effects of microgravity on the human body, as well as the development of new technologies for water purification and food production in space.

The four astronauts also conducted a number of outreach activities during their mission, including giving presentations to students and teachers around the world.

Barnawi and Al-Qarni's successful mission is a major milestone for Saudi Arabia, which is seeking to become a leading player in the global space industry. The country has ambitious plans to send its own astronauts to the moon and Mars in the coming years.