"The stars don't look bigger, but they do look brighter." These words were said by Sally Ride, the first ever American woman in space. Sally Kristen Ride was born on May 26, 1951 in Encino, California.  Sally Ride was a highly athletic and curious child . She was a nationally ranked junior tennis player who loved science and often used a telescope and chemistry set that her parents, Joyce and Dale Ride gave her. She had a loving home and a very supportive family. This picture shows young Sally riding a bike.

Sally graduated Westlake High School in Los Angeles in June of 1968. Her high school life was defined by a balance of elite tennis training and a passion for science . She attended  high school on a tennis scholarship and ranked in the top 20 nationally in junior tennis. In 1973, Sally graduated Standford University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Physics and a Bachelor of Arts in English. This picture shows Sally graduating with her parents by her side.

On January 16, 1978, Sally joined NASA, which might have been one of the hardest challenges in her life. She competed against more than 8000 participants and was chosen for her scientific background. On August of 1979, she completed her one- year training and evaluation period, becoming officially eligible for mission assignments. On April 03, 1982, Sally was announced as a Mission Specialist for the STS-7 mission. Sally married an astronaut named Steve Hawley on July 26, 1982. This picture shows Sally in an astronaut suit.

Sally made history as the first ever American woman in space on June 18, 1983, serving as a Mission Specialist in the Space Shuttle Challenger.  On  October 5th, 1984, she went on her second STS-7 mission, spending more than 197 hours in space! This picture shows Sally in a rocket ship.