RIDE

The name RIDE is an acronym for "Revolutionizing Interplanetary Discoveries and Exploration" and serves as a tribute to NASA scientist Sally Ride. Ride, a physicist and the first American woman to go up into space is one of my greatest role models. I’m an eighth-grade student and because I call math and science my favorite subjects, I’m classified as a “nerd” in school. My interest in math and science has earned me a fair share of judgmental comments but I haven't let it change my passion. My commitment is driven by personalities like Sally Ride, a woman who stayed true to her passion and managed to shape space exploration. She inspires me to let my geek flag fly. Naming the rover after Sally Ride would spread her message to girls everywhere and motivate them to pursue their dreams and make meaningful contributions to the community.