On a MissionBy: Valerie Neal The definitive history of all 61 American women astronauts that's perfect for fans of The Six eager for more Sally Ride became a household name as the first American woman in space, but scores of equally impressive women have also left their mark in space. On a Mission: The Smithsonian History of US Women Astronauts spans 45 years and 61 astronauts to share the epic journeys of women who made space for themselves in a male dominated