Valentina Tereshkova, female cosmonaut

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library

Valentina Tereshkova, female cosmonaut

Valentina Tereshkova (1937- ), in Vostok 6. Tereshkova was the first woman in space. Sent into space by the Soviets largely as a means of having women cosmonauts before the USA, Tereshkova was selected personally for the mission by Soviet leader Kruschev. She was chosen because of her experience in founding a parachuting society at the cotton mill where she worked and, after two years of training, was sent on the 1963 Vostok 6 mission, which briefly passed Vostok 5 in orbit. She later married another cosmonaut, but split with her husband soon after having a child; leading to speculation that they married for propaganda purposes

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6457483

© RIA NOVOSTI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

16 June 1963 16th 1960s 1963 Apparatus Astronaut Cosmonaut First Woman In Space Russia Russian Soviet Soviet Union Space Flight Space Race Training Twenties Uss R Vostok 6 Disoriented Mono Chrome Valentina Tereshkova

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases Valentina Tereshkova, a remarkable woman who etched her name in history as the first female cosmonaut. In 1963, amidst the intense space race between the Soviet Union and the United States, Tereshkova embarked on a groundbreaking mission aboard Vostok 6. Sent into space by the Soviets to beat their American counterparts in having women astronauts, she was personally chosen for this historic endeavor by Soviet leader Kruschev. Tereshkova's selection was not arbitrary; her experience in founding a parachuting society at her cotton mill workplace demonstrated her exceptional skills and courage. After two years of rigorous training, she soared into orbit alongside Vostok 5, briefly crossing paths with another spacecraft. This image captures both her determination and disorientation during this pioneering journey. Beyond her achievements as an astronaut, Tereshkova's personal life also attracted attention. She married another cosmonaut but soon separated from him after giving birth to their child—a circumstance that fueled speculation about their union being driven by propaganda motives rather than genuine affection. As we reflect on this significant moment in history through Science Photo Library's lens, let us celebrate Valentina Tereshkova's indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication to pushing boundaries beyond Earth's atmosphere. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of women around the world to reach for the stars and break barriers in pursuit of their dreams.

MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.