Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, has died, reported ABC World News. She was 61. 

She was also an inspiration. ABC World News noted that Dottie Metcalfe-Lindenburger, a women who flew on one of the last shuttle flights, was inspired by Ride's trailblazing example.

"I grew up during the shuttle age so I was really excited in the second grade when we started flying the shuttle and I remember watching that in our class," said Metcalfe-Lindenburger. "Somehow I realized that women could become astronauts."

Dr. Rides trajectory into outer space began in 1977, when as a Phd sudent, she answerd a NASA want ad searching for astronauts. 

After her ascent Dr. Ride founded Sally Ride Science in San Deigo, where she pursued "her long-time passion of motivating girls and young women to pursue careers in science, math and technology," NPR reported. 

Earlier today, USA Today posted a statement from Sally Ride Science:

"Sally Ride died peacefully July 23, 2012 after a courageous 17-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Sally lived her life to the fullest, with boundless energy, curiosity, intelligence, passion, commitment, and love. Her integrity was absolute; her spirit was immeasurable; her approach to life was fearless."

Here's the video from Dr. Ride's 1983 launch.

Ride, Sally Ride: