Sally Ride Day
Sally Ride Day celebrates the life and achievements of Dr. Sally Ride, the first American woman to travel into space.
This day honors her groundbreaking journey aboard the space shuttle Challenger in 1983. It serves as a tribute to her role in breaking gender barriers in the field of space exploration.
Beyond her historic flight, Ride was a physicist, educator, and advocate for science education, especially encouraging young girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The significance of Sally Ride Day extends beyond commemorating a single event; it highlights the ongoing impact of her contributions to science and education.
After her time with NASA, Ride co-founded Sally Ride Science, an organization aimed at promoting STEM literacy among students. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations to explore the wonders of science and space.
How to Celebrate Sally Ride Day
Sally Ride Day offers a chance to honor a trailblazing astronaut and inspire curiosity about space and science. Here are several engaging ways to celebrate this special occasion:
Dive into Sally’s Story
Begin by exploring Sally Ride’s remarkable journey. Visit the National Air and Space Museum’s Sally’s Night page for a comprehensive celebration guide.
This resource offers insights into her life and contributions to space exploration. Additionally, the Sally Ride Science website provides detailed information about her historic spaceflight and ongoing legacy.
Engage in Hands-On Activities
Participate in interactive experiences to connect with Sally Ride’s work. The EarthKAM program, initiated by Ride, allows students to photograph Earth from space, fostering a deeper understanding of our planet.
For younger audiences, the Teachers Pay Teachers platform offers a variety of Sally Ride-themed crafts and educational materials.
Attend or Host an Event
Join events that celebrate Sally Ride’s legacy. The Museum of Flight hosts “Sally’s Day,” featuring activities like space-themed fashion shows and film screenings.
Alternatively, consider organizing a local event or virtual gathering to discuss her impact and inspire others.
Support STEM Education
Encourage interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
Explore resources from Sally Ride Science to find programs and materials that promote STEM education, especially among young girls.
Supporting these initiatives helps continue Ride’s mission of making science accessible and exciting for all.
Share Her Legacy
Spread awareness of Sally Ride’s achievements through social media or community discussions. Share stories, quotes, or educational content to highlight her contributions to space exploration and education.
Engaging others in conversations about her legacy can inspire future generations to pursue their passions in science and beyond.
History of Sally Ride Day
Sally Ride Day began in 2003 to honor the first American woman to fly into space. The celebration happens each year on her birthday, May 26.
Although no single group officially created it, many people and science groups helped make it a regular event. The day grew in popularity after her historic spaceflight in 1983 and even more after her passing in 2012.
Communities, schools, and science centers across the country mark the day in different ways. Some host space-themed events, while others hold classroom activities.
The goal stays the same: celebrate Sally Ride’s achievements and get more young people, especially girls, excited about science.
Sally Ride didn’t just ride a shuttle into orbit—she also worked hard to open doors for others. She co-founded Sally Ride Science to help kids learn more about space, Earth, and science careers. Her group still shares fun lessons and books that make science feel friendly and exciting.
Sally Ride Day isn’t just about remembering the past. It’s also about sparking new dreams. When kids learn her story, they start to see science as something they can do too. That simple idea is what keeps her spirit flying high each year.
See what else is happening…
There’s always more going on every month at Days Of The Year. Here are our favorites this month!
Also on ...
View all holidays
National Paper Airplane Day
Grab a piece of paper, fold it up, and let fly. Challenge your friends and family to a contest, and see who can make the fastest or farthest-flying plane.
World Dracula Day
Host a Gothic party, or watch any of the great adaptations of Bram Stoker’s absolutely iconic piece of Gothic literature, the eponymous Dracula.
National Blueberry Cheesecake Day
Try making your own blueberry cheesecake, or visit a bakery or restaurant to enjoy this cheesy, sweet, tangy graham cracker-crusted treat.
We think you may also like...
Yuri’s Night
The first person to orbit the Earth, this trailblazer showed us the potential of humanity's spirit and our drive to explore the unknown.
National Pinup Day
Capturing timeless allure through classic visual aesthetics, embodying the essence of glamorous eras in an artful celebration of femininity.
National Woman Astronomers Day
Unveiling cosmic mysteries, fearless minds navigate celestial realms, revealing the profound contributions of women in astronomy.
National Women Inventors Month
Trailblazing women defy conventions, shaping innovations that redefine possibilities, steering the course of progress with brilliance.
