Join us as we celebrate Dr. Sally Ride, the first American woman to live and work in space!
Explore a full day of activities celebrating the 42nd anniversary of one exciting episode of Dr. Sally K. Ride’s extraordinary life—STS-7, the historic mission when she became the first American woman in space. As we celebrate her legacy, we also celebrate the women and gender-expansive people who came before her and follow in her footsteps.
Event Schedule
Be Someone Live Mural Painting
Location | Main Plaza
Time | All Day
Since September 2012, the “Be Someone” message painted on the Union Pacific bridge over I-45 South has served as a powerful symbol of hope and motivation for Houstonians and visitors alike. Today, the artist behind the message is creating a mural for Space Center Houston, honoring the city’s space legacy and the words of astronaut Sally K. Ride: “Science knows no country, because knowledge belongs to humanity.” Together, Space Center Houston, Ride’s legacy, and the artist remind us all to reach for the stars and to “Be Someone.”
Documentary Screening: SALLY (National Geographic)
Location | Mission Briefing Center
Time | 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
Sally Ride became the first American woman to blast off into space, but beneath her unflappable composure, she carried a secret. Revealing the romance and sacrifices of their 27 years together, Sally’s life partner, Tam O’Shaughnessy, tells the full story of this complicated and iconic astronaut for the first time. From National Geographic Documentary Films, SALLY is directed by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Cristina Costantini. Run Time 103 mins.
Dr. Sally K. Ride Limited Collection
Location | Main Plaza
Time | All Day
Join us in our Main Plaza for some interactive activities about the legacy and impact of Dr. Sally Ride!
About Sally Ride
Dr. Sally Ride lived her life with extraordinary energy, passion, curiosity and joy. All astronauts lead exciting lives, but some are larger than life even before they reach for the stars. Whether in the classroom or on the tennis court, in the lab or on the launch pad—it was clear from the start that Dr. Ride would reach great heights.
This June, in celebration of this anniversary, we invite everyone, everywhere to join us. Celebrate and share what about space and science brings you energy, passion, curiosity, and joy. Whatever your passion, whoever you are, tell us how you #ShineLikeSally on social media and use our celebration guide to explore space and science with your family and friends.
About Sally Ride, narrated by her partner Dr. Tam O’Shaughnessy
This project received Federal support from the Smithsonian American Women’s History Initiative Pool, administered by the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum.
