The First Mother in Space: Anna Fisher's Historic STS-51A Mission

Anna Fisher, an iconic figure in the field of space exploration, was part of the six first women in the NASA astronaut program (known together as The Six). She, along with her fellow female colleagues, served as pioneers and paved the way for women to integrate STEM related fields more. Fisher stands among the trailblazers who reshaped the narrative of space exploration.

(Wikipedia Contributors)

Hailing from New York, Fisher embarked on a journey fueled by determination, intelligence, and an unwavering dedication to unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos. Her academic pursuit began at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. She then pursued a Doctorate in Medicine from UCLA, becoming a doctor and opening pathways to her future groundbreaking career.

Her acceptance in the TFNGs (Thirty Five New Guys, a group of thirty five new recruits, the first NASA selection since Group 6 in 1967) marked a significant milestone in the inclusion of women in the United States' space program. She completed rigorous training and preparation for space missions, focusing on various aspects of spaceflight, including extravehicular activities (EVAs) and scientific experimentation in microgravity.

(Wikipedia Contributors)

Fisher's spaceflight debut occurred in November 1984 aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery during the STS-51A mission. This mission gained historical significance as Fisher became the first mother in space. As a mission specialist, Fisher operated the Remote Manipulator System, commonly known as the shuttle's robotic arm, facilitating the deployment of two satellites.

(NASA)

Her contributions to scientific research during missions were notable. Fisher conducted experiments that aimed to understand the effects of space travel on the human body, particularly focusing on changes in bone density and muscle mass due to extended periods of weightlessness.

Following her space missions, Fisher continued her work at NASA in various roles, contributing to the development of the International Space Station (ISS) and participating in research related to human adaptation to space environments.

(Optimism - UCLA)

Fisher retired from NASA in 2017 after a distinguished career that spanned over three decades. Her legacy as a pioneering astronaut and advocate for space exploration continues to inspire aspiring scientists and astronauts, particularly women, to pursue careers in STEM fields and push the boundaries of human space exploration.