STARGAZING
If there’s anybody who knows how to reach for the stars, it’s Sally Ride. She’s been there. Sally recently shared her story with local girl scouts at the 5th annual “Yes She Can” event, a day set aside to encourage girls to pursue their dreams.
Sally began by inviting the group to join her as she experienced space for the first time. Through a series of photographs, Sally portrayed our fragile earth as seen from some 200-300 miles above the planet. Earth science came to life as the girls looked down the eye of a hurricane over the Indian Ocean. The plumes of burning fires clouded the sky as the rainforest in Brazil was being deforested. A delicate fine line of life- giving atmosphere was pointed out as the sun set in the horizon.
Always dreaming of going into space, Sally Ride told of how she saw an ad in her college newspaper seeking applicants to the first corps of Space Shuttle astronauts. 8000 people applied but only 35 of them were chosen. Sally was among the 6 women invited to begin training for the Space Shuttle. Her dream came true, as she became the first American woman in space as a communications officer aboard Challenger 7. She completed a second journey the next year and spent a total of 16 days in space.
Sally answered questions from the audience about what it’s like to be an astronaut. Her favorite part of being in space was to experience weightlessness and to see spectacular views of earth. She talked about how blasting off was a scary thing. Sally said,” I was washed over with a feeling of helplessness” as the loud noise and extreme vibration accompanied the shuttle as it broke through the earth’s atmosphere.
When asked how it felt to be the only woman on the mission, Sally said it was really not a problem. The crew of the 7th Shuttle trained together every day for an entire year. By the time they flew they felt just like a family with deep respect for each other.
Sally Ride’s mission today includes traveling across America speaking to groups of girls and inspiring the next generation of women scientists and engineers. Sally has a way of connecting with her young audience. This was evident as she recently spoke in Fort Wayne. She let them know that science and math are “cool” and it’s one of the best tools you’ll use to help you touch the stars you’re reaching for.
The Sally Ride Science Club is designed for girls in grades 5th through 8th. Imaginary Lines run the club and you can visit the website at www.imaginarylines.com. The club provides support to girls interested in math, science, and engineering.
“Reach high, for stars lie hidden in your souls. Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal”, words written by Pamela Vaull Starr. A quotation that sums up the 5th annual “Yes, You Can” event. Now you go girls!
> Read More Information About Us
> More Articles Written By Our Staff
- Celebrating 20 Years Of Community At The Stand - April 12, 2024
- First Positive Case Of Chronic Wasting Disease In Indiana - April 12, 2024
- Southwest Allen County Schools Embark On Major Tree Plantings - April 12, 2024