As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it is essential to recognize the remarkable achievements of women who have ventured beyond our planet. Among these trailblazers are the women astronauts who defied gravity, shattered glass ceilings as they were literally launched into the stars of the universe and expanded our understanding of the cosmos.
The era of women in space began on June 16, 1963, when Soviet cosmonaut Valentina V. Tereshkova launched aboard the Vostok 6 spacecraft for a three-day mission, becoming the first woman to orbit Earth. She actually orbited earth 48 times. Her courage and determination paved the way for future generations of female astronauts around the world.
Back in the United States, Katherine Johnson, a brilliant mathematician and physicist, played a pivotal role in NASA’s early space missions. Her precise calculations ensured the success of missions like John Glenn’s orbital flight and the Apollo moon landings. Despite facing racial and gender discrimination, Johnson’s determination and intellect broke down barriers.
Check out the book and the DVD “Hidden Figures: The American Dream and Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race” by Margot Lee Shetterly, which immortalized her story along with Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson.
Nearly 20 years passed before another woman flew into space. In January of 1978, NASA announced the selection of 35 new astronauts, including six women, for the space shuttle program. These women —Sally Ride, Judith A. Resnik, Anna L. Fisher, Kathryn D. Sullivan, Shannon W. Lucid, and Rhea Seddon —made history by challenging stereotypes and proving that space exploration was not limited by gender. They conducted experiments, repaired satellites and inspired countless young girls to reach for the stars.
Read the rave reviewed “The Six: The Untold Story of America’s First Women Astronauts” by Loren Grush, published in 2023.
In 1992, Dr. Mae Jemison soared into space aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour, becoming the first African American woman to do so. An accomplished physician, engineer and dancer, Jemison exemplified the spirit of exploration.
Dr. Peggy Whitson holds the record for the longest cumulative time spent in space by an American. Her multiple missions aboard the International Space Station, also known as the ISS, demonstrate resilience, adaptability and scientific curiosity.
In 2019, Christina H. Koch and Jessica Meir made history during the first all-female spacewalk. Their collaborative efforts outside the ISS symbolized progress and unity. As they floated in the vacuum of space, they carried the hopes of countless women who dream of exploring the cosmos.
Celebrate these extraordinary women who defied norms, challenged stereotypes and expanded our cosmic horizons. Whether through engineering, scientific research or space exploration, they continue to inspire us all.
Visit the Grand County Library District’s catalog at GCLD.org to explore more resources about these remarkable women and their journeys. Let their stories ignite curiosity and propel us toward a future where the stars are within reach.