Valentina Tereshkova

Date of Birth: March 6, 1937

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Biography

Valentina Vladimirovna Tereshkova is a retired Soviet cosmonaut and engineer, best known for being the first woman to fly in space. Born in the village of Maslennikovo in Russia, she started her career as a textile worker and became an amateur parachutist, which eventually led her to be selected as a cosmonaut. On June 16, 1963, she orbited the Earth 48 times aboard Vostok 6, spending almost three days in space. Tereshkova’s mission was a significant milestone in the history of space exploration and a major achievement for the Soviet space program. After her spaceflight, she became an influential figure in Soviet politics and international diplomacy. Tereshkova has received numerous awards and honors, including the Hero of the Soviet Union, the nation’s highest honor.

5 Interesting Facts about Valentina Tereshkova

1. Valentina Tereshkova was the first and youngest woman to fly in space at the age of 26.

2. She orbited the Earth 48 times during her mission on Vostok 6.

3. Tereshkova’s call sign during her mission was “Chaika,” which means “seagull” in Russian.

4. She later pursued a career in politics and served as a member of the State Duma in Russia.

5. There is a crater on the far side of the Moon named after Tereshkova in recognition of her contributions to space exploration.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Valentina Tereshkova

1. “Once you’ve been in space, you appreciate how small and fragile the Earth is.”

2. “I saw the horizon as a curved line. It was the most profound experience of my life.”

3. “Anyone who has spent any time in space will love it for the rest of their lives. I achieved my childhood dream of the sky.”

4. “If women can be railroad workers in Russia, why can’t they fly in space?”

5. “I’ve never dreamt of being a cosmonaut. I wanted to be a crane operator.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Valentina Tereshkova’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, largely attributed to her work as a cosmonaut and her subsequent political career.

Children

Valentina Tereshkova has one daughter named Elena Andrianovna Nikolaeva-Tereshkova, born in 1964. Elena followed in her parents’ scientific footsteps and became a doctor.