Sally Ride Facts for Kids
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Sally Ride was the first American woman astronaut to fly in space. She made history on June 18, 1983, when she soared into orbit aboard the space shuttle Challenger. Sally Ride’s achievements inspire young girls and boys to realize that they, too, can reach for the stars. Here are some interesting facts about Sally Ride.
Early Life
Sally Kristen Ride was born on May 26, 1951, in Los Angeles, California. She grew up in a loving family with a sister and a brother. Sally was a bright and curious child who loved science and math. She excelled in school and was valedictorian of her high school class.
Education
Sally Ride studied physics at Stanford University and later earned her Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and PhD degrees in physics from Stanford. She was the first American woman to earn a PhD in physics.
NASA Career
In 1978, Sally Ride was selected by NASA to be an astronaut. She joined a team of astronauts who were preparing to fly on the space shuttle. Sally’s first space mission was STS-7, which launched on June 18, 1983. She spent six days in space as a mission specialist.
Sally Ride later flew on a second space mission, STS-41G, which launched on October 5, 1984. During both missions, she conducted experiments in physics, astronomy, and medicine. Sally Ride was a trailblazer for women in space, and she inspired a generation of young girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.
After NASA
After Sally Ride left NASA, she became a professor of physics at the University of California, San Diego. She also founded Sally Ride Science, a company that promotes science education for girls and boys. Sally was a champion for gender equity in STEM fields and worked tirelessly to inspire young people to become scientists and engineers.
Personal Life
Sally Ride was married to fellow astronaut Steve Hawley from 1982 to 1987. She kept her private life private and did not disclose her sexual orientation until her obituary was published in 2012. Sally was a pioneer for LGBT rights and a role model for people from all walks of life.
Legacy
Sally Ride passed away on July 23, 2012, at the age of 61. She left behind a powerful legacy as a scientist, astronaut, educator, and advocate. Sally Ride inspired generations of young people to reach for the stars and pursue their dreams. She showed us all that anything is possible if we work hard and believe in ourselves.