But when I wasn't working, I was usually at a window looking down at Earth.
Sally RideRead
The fact that I was going to be the first American woman to go into space carried huge expectations along with it.
Interpretation
Sally Ride's quote highlights the pressure and expectations that come with pioneering achievements.
In this quote, Sally Ride reflects on her historic journey as the first American woman in space, acknowledging the immense pressure that accompanied such a groundbreaking role. This statement encapsulates the dual reality of achieving a significant milestone; while it serves as an inspiration to many, it also comes with the weight of expectations from society and future generations.
In practice
During a keynote speech at a women's leadership conference.
But when I wasn't working, I was usually at a window looking down at Earth.
When the space shuttle's engines cut off, and you're finally in space, in orbit, weightless... I remember unstrapping from my seat, floating over to the window, and that's when I got my first view of Earth. Just a spectacular view, and a chance to see our planet as a planet.
All adventures, especially into new territory, are scary.
I did not come to NASA to make history.
Yes, I did feel a special responsibility to be the first American woman in space.
Even though NASA tries to simulate launch, and we practice in simulators, it's not the same - it's not even close to the same.
The human species took a crucial step forward when its vocal musculature came under operant control in the production of speech sounds. Indeed, it is possible that all the distinctive achievements of the species can be traced to that one genetic change.
It is a capital mistake to theorize before one has data. Insensibly one begins to twist facts to suit theories, instead of theories to suit facts.
Astronauts are not superhuman. They lead ordinary lives and have varied personalities.
It is ... a sign of the times-though our brothers of physics and chemistry may smile to hear me say so-that biology is now a science in which theories can be devised: theories which lead to predictions and predictions which sometimes turn out to be correct. These facts confirm me in a belief I hold most passionately-that biology is the heir of all the sciences.
The scientific observer of Nature is a kind of mystic seeker in the act of prayer.
Geometry existed before the creation. It is co-eternal with the mind of God...Geometry provided God with a model for the Creation.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.