Well Crap - RIP Sally Ride

First woman astronaut. From NASA:

NASA Offers Condolences on the Passing of Pioneering Astronaut Sally Ride
In a space agency filled with trailblazers, Sally K. Ride was a pioneer of a different sort. The soft-spoken California physicist broke the gender barrier 29 years ago when she rode to orbit aboard space shuttle Challenger to become America�s first woman in space.

"Sally Ride broke barriers with grace and professionalism � and literally changed the face of America�s space program," said NASA Administrator Charles Bolden. "The nation has lost one of its finest leaders, teachers and explorers. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sally's family and the many she inspired. She will be missed, but her star will always shine brightly."

�Sally was a personal and professional role model to me and thousands of women around the world,� said NASA Deputy Administrator Lori Garver. �Her spirit and determination will continue to be an inspiration for women everywhere.�

Ride�s contribution to America�s space program continued right up until her death at age 61 this week. After two trips to orbit aboard the shuttle, she went on an award-winning academic career at the University of California, San Diego, where her expertise and wisdom were widely sought on matters related to space. She holds the distinction of being the only person to serve as a member of both investigation boards following NASA�s two space shuttle accidents. She also served as a member of the Review of U.S. Human Spaceflight Plans Committee, also known as the Augustine Committee, in 2009, which informed many of the decisions about NASA�s current human spaceflight programs.

A true pioneer. She was also the founder of Sally Ride Science. From their About page:

Sally Ride Science� is an innovative science education company dedicated to supporting girls� and boys� interests in science, math and technology. We believe that when children are encouraged to pursue their interests they are inspired to think about their futures, and are better prepared to pursue a wide range of exciting opportunities in high school, college and beyond.

Dr. Sally Ride, best known as America�s first woman in space, founded Sally Ride Science in 2001 to create quality programs and products that educate, entertain, engage and inspire.

A key part of our corporate mission is to make a difference in girls' lives, and in society's perceptions of their roles in technical fields. Our school programs, classroom materials, and teacher trainings bring science to life to show kids that science is creative, collaborative, fascinating, and fun.

She will be missed - 61 is way to young!