While we’re focusing on women’s history—
Earlier this week we celebrated the birthday (March 6, 1937) of Soviet Cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova, who was the first woman to travel into space. (What you missed it?)
Valentina was launched in Vostok 6 on June, 16, 1963. After 48 orbits and 71 hours, she returned to earth, having spent more time in space than all U.S. astronauts combined to that date. She was honored with the title Hero of the Soviet Union. She went into space two decades before America’s first woman astronaut, Sally Ride. She earned a doctorate in engineering and continues to work for world peace.
Once you are at this faraway distance, you realize the significance of what it is that unites us. Let us work together to overcome our differences. — Valentina Tereshkova
Here’s a list of other women in space, and a tour of a space ship.