Sally Ride Dies at 61

Sally Ride c/o Wikipedia

The first American woman to fly in space aboard space shuttle Challenger, Sally Ride has died last Monday, June 23 after many months of battling pancreatic cancer. Her achievement as a physicist and NASA astronaut has brought her among the modern day heroes America salutes. Her contribution to her field and the inspiration she has stimulated among Americans particularly American women is utterly outstanding. She is the only person who has become a member of an investigating panel that has probed over two space shuttle accidents- Challenger and Columbia.

Barack Obama, President of the United States, no less has paid tribute to the late astronaut:

“Michelle and I were deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Sally Ride. As the first American woman to travel into space, Sally was a national hero and a powerful role model. She inspired generations of young girls to reach for the stars and later fought tirelessly to help them get there by advocating for a greater focus on science and math in our schools. Sally’s life showed us that there are no limits to what we can achieve and I have no doubt that her legacy will endure for years to come. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Sally’s family and friends.”

Being a woman is never a hindrance from earning respect and prominence in a field where men normally dominates. She is an amazing woman who has earned a legacy with her undoubtedly great contribution to the field of science and math.