In a poignant announcement, NASA revealed the passing of retired astronaut Mary Cleave on Monday, Nov. 27.
A trailblazer and the first woman to crew a spaceflight after the Challenger explosion in 1986, Cleave's remarkable journey left an indelible mark on space exploration.
Early Years and Education
Born in 1947 in Southampton, New York, Mary Cleave was raised by educators Howard and Barbara Cleave. She embarked on her academic journey at Colorado State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in biological sciences in 1969.
Cleave further honed her expertise, obtaining a Master of Science in microbial ecology and a doctorate in civil and environmental engineering at Utah State University in 1975 and 1979, respectively.
NASA Astronaut Selection
Selected as an astronaut in May 1980, Cleave swiftly ascended in the ranks of NASA. Her inaugural mission, STS-61B, took place on Nov. 26, 1985, aboard the space shuttle Atlantis. The mission showcased her proficiency in deploying communication satellites, conducting spacewalks, and contributing to vital experiments.
Overcoming Tragedy
Mary Cleave's resilience shone through after the Challenger tragedy in 1986. She became the first woman to fly in space after the devastating incident, undertaking mission STS-30 in 1989.
According to FoxNews, the crew, aboard the shuttle Atlantis, achieved a milestone by successfully deploying the Magellan Venus exploration spacecraft, mapping a significant portion of the planet's surface.
Post-Astronaut Career
Following her space endeavors, Cleave transitioned to NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in 1991, focusing on global ocean vegetation monitoring.
In 2000, she assumed the role of deputy associate administrator for advanced planning in the Office of Earth Science at NASA's Headquarters. From 2005 to 2007, Cleave held the prestigious position of associate administrator for NASA's Science Mission Directorate.
Awards and Accolades
Cleave's illustrious career garnered numerous accolades, including two NASA Space Flight medals, two NASA Exceptional Service medals, and an American Astronautical Society Flight Achievement Award. Her impactful contributions were further recognized with a NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal and the title of NASA Engineer of the Year, per CNN.
A Farewell to a Pioneer
In February 2007, Mary Cleave bid farewell to NASA, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking achievements. Her pioneering spirit and dedication continue to inspire generations, marking her as a trailblazer who paved the way for women in space exploration.
Aside from Mary Cleave, another icon in aeronautics is Sally Ride who is regarded to be the first female astronaut from America.
Ride took a ride in space inside Challenger in 1983. At that time, she was only 32. For many Americans, she was the inspiration for young girls who dream of becoming an astronaut someday.
In 2012, Ride died due to pancreatic cancer at the age of 61.
