Women in Space

Women have played a huge role in space exploration. The first woman in space was Valentina Tereshkova from the Soviet Union in 1963. Since then, women have walked in space, commanded the space station, and helped build spacecraft. Women continue to push the boundaries of space exploration.

Pioneers of Space

Valentina Tereshkova orbited Earth 48 times in 1963. Sally Ride became the first American woman in space in 1983. Mae Jemison became the first African American woman in space in 1992. Eileen Collins was the first woman to command a Space Shuttle mission in 1999. Each of these women opened doors for others.

Women in Space Today

Today, women make up a growing part of astronaut teams. Christina Koch set a record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman at 328 days. In 2019, the first all-female spacewalk took place. NASA's Artemis program plans to land the first woman on the Moon. Women are also leading roles in building rockets and planning missions.

Fun Facts

• Valentina Tereshkova was only 26 years old when she flew in space in 1963.
• Peggy Whitson has spent more time in space than any other American astronaut, male or female.
• The first all-female spacewalk was performed by Christina Koch and Jessica Meir in 2019.

Did You Know?

Before Sally Ride went to space, a reporter asked her if spaceflight would affect her ability to have children. She replied by asking if anyone had ever asked a male astronaut that question.