Valentina Tereshkova launched into space aboard the Vostok 6 spacecraft on June 16, 1963, becoming the first woman in human history to fly in space. As a member of the Soviet space program, Tereshkova's mission was a significant milestone in space exploration and women's participation in scientific endeavors. She spent nearly three days in orbit, completing 48 orbits around Earth, and used her time to conduct an array of experiments focused on the effects of spaceflight on the female body.

Prior to her flight, Tereshkova was a textile factory worker and an amateur parachutist, which made her a suitable candidate for the space program. The Soviet Union had prioritized showcasing their advancements in space technology during the Cold War, and sending a woman into space helped to bolster their achievements in this area. During her flight, she communicated with ground control, providing data and insights about her physical and psychological condition while in orbit.

Tereshkova's return was met with global media attention. Her mission was celebrated not just as a scientific achievement but also as a significant movement towards gender equality in fields predominantly occupied by men. Her success in Vostok 6 paved the way for future women in space, inspiring generations and changing perceptions about women’s roles in science and technology.