Seven astronauts, all women, were honored for their contributions to the study of space last night by the Explorers Club, a professional society of explorers and researchers.
The black-tie affair was emceed by Hugh M. Downs, an anchor on ABC's 20/20, and included a speech by NASA's chief scientist Dr. Kathie L. Olson.
"I want to recognize the true explorers we are here honor tonight -- the women who are the essential part of our astronaut corps," Olson said. "It's your courage and determination that are inspiring an entire generation of girls."
The honored astronauts included Dr. Mary Cleave, Dr. Bonnie J. Dunbar, Dr. Rhea Seddon, Dr. Kathryn D. Sullivan, Dr. Kathryn C. Thornton and Dr. Tamara E. Jernigan. Dr. Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman in space, was honored but did not attend.
"It's your courage and determination that are inspiring an entire generation of girls."
Olson attended in lieu of NASA Administrator Daniel Goldin, whom Olson said was needed at NASA headquarters to deal with the fallout from the presumed failure of the Mars Polar Lander mission and the launch delay of Space Shuttle Discovery.
More than 150 explorers, students and New York socialites attended the affair, named in honor of newscaster Lowell Thomas. The function was held at the New York Athletic Club opposite Manhattan's Central Park.
The Explorers Club banned women from its ranks until 1984, a policy that Alfred S. McClaren, the club's current president, said lacked any rationale.
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