Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the first American woman in space, Dr. Sally K. Ride, and honoring her contributions to the space program and to science education.

Madam Speaker, this year we celebrate many important anniversaries in our Nation's civil space and aeronautics programs. Earlier this year, I introduced H. Con. Res 287, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of the United States Explorer I satellite, the world's first scientific spacecraft, and which marked the birth of the United States space exploration program. Since the successful Explorer I launch, we have built the world's leading civil space and aeronautics enterprise. Our human expeditions into space, our robotic science probes exploring the Earth and beyond, and our aeronautical research and development initiatives continue to deliver inspiring results and provide benefits to society.

Today, I am pleased to be an original co-sponsor of three resolutions that mark other key milestones in our civil space and aeronautics activities: H. Res. 1315, Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration; H. Res. 1313, Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the First American Woman in Space; and H. Res. 1312, Commemorating the 25th Anniversary of the Space Foundation.

H. Res. 1315 commemorates the 50th Anniversary of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), which was established on July 29, 1958, through the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958. NASA has achieved countless successes over the 50 years since its creation and H. Res. 1315 recalls many of the agency's accomplishments in human exploration, aeronautics, and space and Earth science. I strongly agree with the sentiment expressed in H. Res. 1315, ``. . . in the last fifty years, NASA has positively impacted almost every facet of our lives.'' NASA's contributions to aviation, to increased understanding of our climate, to the advancement of our knowledge of the universe, and to the development of countless technologies that have made their way into broader societal applications have fundamentally changed our lives.

Madam Speaker, the applied uses of NASA research and developments have enabled weather and environmental monitoring, commercial satellite communications, and major improvements in commercial aviation. H. Res. 1315 marks NASA's successful launches of the first American manned spacecraft in 1961, the first human expedition to the Moon in 1969, and the first Space Shuttle in 1981. NASA's international cooperative ventures have allowed many of the world's nations to join together in advancing technology and knowledge through the peaceful uses of outer space. NASA's first 50 years have yielded truly remarkable discoveries and advances. I want to thank Mr. McCaul of Texas, who along with Mr. Lampson of Texas, introduced H. Res. 1315. H. Res. 1315 is an important opportunity to recognize NASA's half century of achievements and the men and women of NASA that have made them possible, and I am pleased to support it.

As a result of NASA's human exploration program, we also celebrate the 25th anniversary of the first American woman in space, Dr. Sally K. Ride. H. Res. 1313 commemorates that date in June of 1983 when Dr. Ride flew aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger, making history by becoming the first American woman in space. She went on to fly a second mission in 1984. When training for Dr. Ride's third mission ended as a result of the tragic Challenger accident, she continued her contributions to NASA and the Nation as an educator and advisor. H. Res. 1313 honors Dr. Ride's passion and dedication as a tireless advocate for young women and girls to pursue education and careers in science, mathematics, and technology. The opportunities she is creating for our youth, especially girls and young women, to acquire hands-on learning in science will go far in training the next generation of leaders in science and engineering. That is something I care passionately about, and I thank my colleague, Mr. Lampson of Texas for introducing H. Res. 1313.

In addition to the important role of our Federal government in the Nation's space and aeronautics programs, many non-governmental organizations provide outreach, education, and advocacy that enhance our space and aeronautics activities. That is why I strongly support H. Res. 1312, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Space Foundation. The Space Foundation, which is headquartered in Colorado Springs in my home state of Colorado, is a non-profit organization dedicated to using space to benefit humanity and furthering space exploration, development, and education. Since 1983, the Space Foundation has helped to ensure the strength and leadership of our space programs, and I am pleased that we can acknowledge the Space Foundation's endeavors in this regard. I thank my colleague, Mr. Lamborn of Colorado, for introducing this resolution recognizing the Space Foundation for its 25 years of excellence and service.

Madam Speaker, our nation's space and aeronautics programs are critical sources of innovation and inspiration for our Nation. The contributions of NASA, our astronauts, and our space advocacy organizations provide benefits for our society, help strengthen our economy, and help train the next generation of scientists and engineers. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H. Res. 1315 commemorating the 50th anniversary of NASA; H. Res. 1313 celebrating the 25th anniversary of the first American woman in space, Dr. Sally K. Ride; and H. Res. 1312 commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Space Foundation.

Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 1313) celebrating the 25th anniversary of the first American woman in space, Dr. Sally K. Ride, and honoring her contributions to the space program and to science education.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H. Res. 1313, the resolution now under consideration.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, I introduced H. Res. 1313 which celebrates the 25th anniversary of the first American woman in

space, Dr. Sally K. Ride. I was pleased that the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Davis), the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Feeney), and the gentleman from Colorado (Chairman Udall), joined me as original cosponsors and I want to thank them for their support. This is a very special woman who has done something significant for the United States of America and a project which has touched this world.

On June 18, 1983, Dr. Sally Ride made history with her groundbreaking space shuttle flight. However, that has been by no means her only accomplishment. Dr. Ride has had a distinguished career of service to America as a veteran NASA astronaut and as an unwavering advocate for the next generation of women in space, mathematics and engineering.

She first flew as a member of the STS-7 crew, which achieved several firsts for the United States space program, including the first release and capture of a satellite using the orbiter's robotic arm and the first demonstration of a shuttle flying in formation with a free-flying satellite. And she then flew again in 1984.

She has served the space program in other ways as well. In 1987, she wrote the thoughtful report on future directions of the U.S. space program, entitled ``Leadership and America's Future in Space.'' And when tragedy struck the human space flight program, she served with distinction on both the Challenger and Columbia accident investigation boards.

In addition, Dr. Ride has worked tirelessly to encourage young women to pursue careers in science, engineering and mathematics through her science festivals and camps. She also has sought to engage young people through other creative approaches such as the EarthKAM program she established to allow middle school students to participate directly in the excitement of space exploration. That is one of the programs that we have seen dwindle and we hope to have a rekindling of support because it is a magnificent one to encourage students to stay involved and become involved in math and science and engineering courses.

As many of you know, I am passionate about the need to get our kids interested in math and science, and I think the Nation owes Dr. Ride a debt of gratitude for her efforts in that regard.

So to sum up, Dr. Sally Ride has done much to serve our Nation since she rode the shuttle into space 25 years ago. I urge my colleagues to join me in saluting her on this 25th anniversary of her first flight.

I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I recognize the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Davis) and grant her as much time as she may consume.

Mr. Speaker, it has been an honor to work with those who

have believed so very much in helping change young people's lives across this country of ours. Mr. Feeney, Mrs. Davis and Mr. Udall all saw the impact that Dr. Sally Ride had on so many young minds across this Nation to encourage them to study science and math and engineering-related classes. I think this is a wonderful way of saying thank you to another pioneer who has made a difference in so many people's lives.

I thank the gentleman for working with us on the resolution. I ask support for the resolution.

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1313, Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the first American Woman in Space, Dr. Sally K. Ride. This legislation gives us the opportunity to extend our appreciation and gratitude for Dr. Ride's excellence in service to the Nation as an astronaut, educator, and advocate for the next generation of women scientists and engineers. I would like to thank my distinguished colleague from Texas, Congressman Lampson, for introducing this important legislation.

Mr. Speaker, Sally K. Ride of Los Angeles, California, a physicist by training and an accomplished athlete, was selected as a National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA, astronaut candidate in 1978, as part of the eighth class of NASA astronauts and one of only six women in the class. On June 18, 1983, Dr. Ride was lofted into space aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger as part of the STS-7 crew, making her the first American woman in space. As a representative from ``Space City Houston'', I am personally inspired by Dr. Ride's accolades and triumph over the status quo.

The STS-7 crew launched two communications satellites from the shuttle and accomplished many first steps for the United States space program, including the first release and capture of a satellite using the shuttle's robotic arm, the first demonstration of a shuttle's flight in formation with a free-flying satellite, and the first United States-German cooperative material science experiments aboard the shuttle, as well as the conduct of other science experiments.

On October 5, 1984, Dr. Ride courageously made her second spaceflight as a mission specialist on STS 41-G, a mission that demonstrated the ability to refuel satellites in orbit and launched NASA's Earth Radiation Budget Satellite, which spent over 20 years providing valuable scientific data on the Earth's absorption and re-radiation of solar energy. However, training for Dr. Ride's third spaceflight assignment ceased after the tragic loss of the Space Shuttle Challenger and her crew in 1986. Following this, Dr. Ride was called to serve on the Presidential Commission on the Space Shuttle Challenger Accident.

Refusing to let the tragic loss of her crewmen deter her from her passion, Dr. Ride continued to serve the Nation's space program with distinction, authoring the 1987 report, Leadership and America's Future in Space, and serving on the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. As an educator, author of children's books, and advocate for the next generation of women in science, mathematics, and technology, Dr. Ride's work has contributed to the wellbeing of our youth.

Dr. Ride has worked tirelessly and passionately to encourage young women to follow the sciences, mathematics, and technology by promoting science festivals, camps, and other opportunities through which young women can acquire hands-on learning about science.

Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Sally K. Ride. This legislation gives us the opportunity to extend our appreciation and gratitude for Dr. Ride's excellence in service to the Nation as an astronaut, educator, and advocate for the next generation of women scientists and engineers.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 25th anniversary of Dr. Sally K. Ride's historic journey as the first American woman in space.

Dr. Ride also happens to be one of my constituents, and I have had the pleasure of meeting her. Twenty-five years ago, Dr. Ride and the STS-7 crew of the Space Shuttle Challenger were propelled into space. It had been over two decades since Neil Armstrong took one giant leap for mankind. But on June 18, 1983, Sally K. Ride took a large stride for women everywhere by becoming the first American woman in space.

A gifted athlete, Dr. Ride had opted out of a promising tennis career to pursue college degrees in physics and English at Stanford University.

In 1977, Dr. Ride's interest was piqued by a NASA announcement seeking young scientists to serve as mission specialists on shuttle flights. Hers would be the first NASA class ever to accept women.

Out of thousands of applications, NASA selected Dr. Ride to be one of six women out of 35 new astronauts, and the class became known as the ``35 New Guys.''

To be sure, Mr. Speaker, on her historic space mission, Dr. Ride wasn't simply along for the ride. She was the mission's flight engineer, tested a robotic arm which deployed and retrieved satellites, and assisted the commander and pilot during flight.

Six years later, Dr. Ride flew into space again. Her experience and success earned her the respect of our Nation and her colleagues.

In 1986, she was asked to served on the Presidential Commission investigating the tragic Challenger explosion. Dr. Ride left her position at NASA in 1987, but has never stopped inspiring and encouraging the next generation to explore the world of science and space. Her impact on young women has been particularly profound.

She is a professor of physics at the University of California, San Diego and director of the University of California's California Space Institute. And she has also founded her own company, Sally Ride Science, which encourages students and their parents and teachers to learn about and enjoy the field of science. And I know from personal experience that at the science and math fairs, she is the hit. She is the highlight, and all of the young people really line up to talk with her.

Capturing the essence of Dr. Ride's life work, her company's motto is ``All Science, All the Time.''

It is this undying dedication to her field and to informing and inspiring young people that has been so characteristic of Dr. Ride since her barrier-breaking space mission a quarter of a century ago. With women like her leading the way, it is no wonder that the number of females to obtain degrees in science and engineering has increased dramatically in the last 30 years.

Ensuring that women are equitably represented in science and technology fields will mean a new level of global competitiveness for our country. This is something we need as we continue to fall behind as a Nation in math and the sciences.

While Dr. Ride's mission landed safely 25 years ago, the task of achieving gender parity in her field is far from over.

As Dr. Ride's Congresswoman and as the grandmother to a young and curious granddaughter, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

I am pleased to join Mr. Lampson in cosponsoring House Resolution 1313 which honors the life and accomplishments of an amazing woman, astronaut Dr. Sally K. Ride.

Sally Ride was born in Los Angeles, California, on May 26, 1951, and is perhaps best known as the first American woman in space. She was selected for NASA's astronaut program in January 1978, and became a mission specialist on the seventh space shuttle mission, which launched from the Kennedy Space Center, Florida, on June 18, 1983. This was the second flight of the space shuttle Challenger, and the first mission with a five-person crew. During the mission, Dr. Ride operated the shuttle's remote manipulator arm to perform the first deployment and retrieval exercise from the shuttle's cargo bay. These early demonstrations paved the way for routine, yet vitally important, operations necessary to build the International Space Station.

Prior to her service with NASA, Sally Ride received a bachelor of science in physics and a bachelor of arts in English, and went on to receive a master of science and doctorate degree in physics from Stanford University.

What is perhaps less well known about Sally Ride is the work she has done to motivate girls and young women to pursue careers in math and science and technology. She has written five science books for children, and initiated and directed education programs to encourage a fascination with science among middle school students.

Dr. Ride also served the Nation in other capacities, including as a member of the Presidential Commission investigating the Space Shuttle Challenger accident, and later the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. She has been a member of the President's Committee of Advisers on Science and Technology, and the National Research Council's Space Studies Board, as well as served on the Boards of Congressional Office of Technology Assessment.

Indeed, our country does owe a great debt of gratitude to this amazing woman, Dr. Sally Ride.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

I have no further speakers, and again, I am pleased to be an original cosponsor of Mr. Lampson's resolution honoring a great American. I urge its adoption by the House.

I yield back the balance of my time.