Universe Today
Dr. Sally Ride, the first American woman to fly in space, died today, July 23, 2012. She was 61 years old.
Dr. Ride flew in space twice, first in 1983 aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger, then again aboard Challenger in 1984. She was the President and CEO of
Sally Ride Science
, a science education company that creates programs and products for students and teachers in elementary and middle school with a focus on encouraging girls. Dr. Ride was also a Professor of Physics (Emerita) at the University of California, San Diego. She received her B.S in Physics, B.A in English, and M.S. and PhD in Physics from Stanford University.
Sally died peacefully July 23 after a courageous 17-month battle with pancreatic cancer. She lived her life to the fullest, with boundless energy, curiosity, intelligence, passion, commitment, and love. Her integrity was absolute; her spirit was immeasurable; her approach to life was fearless.
– Charles Bolden, NASA Administrator
For more information visit
http://www.sallyridescience.com/
.
– Dr. Sally Ride, former NASA astronaut
(NASA/JPL video from July 2008)
Photo and video: NASA