# Wally Funk: The Oldest Female Pioneer of Space Bids Farewell

Funk, who passed away at the age of 87, made history in space travel.

- **Source:** [NYT > Science](https://brifing.si/source/794f9fbd-c10f-44d6-932d-9039af67922c)
- **Published:** 2026-07-09
- **Topic:** [Career Growth](https://brifing.si/c/growth)
- **Original article:** <https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/09/science/space/wally-funk-dead.html>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/f6d3d7be-3ad4-4464-8747-33d1fba09d34

## A Pioneer's Story

Wally Funk was an aviation pioneer who in the 1960s was unable to fulfill her dream of becoming a NASA astronaut. In an era when women's participation in space programs was limited, she stood out for her talents.

## Record in Space Travel

In 2021, Funk flew to space with Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin, becoming the oldest woman to travel to space at 82. This marked the realization of her long-delayed dream.

## Aviation Career

Funk developed an interest in aviation at a young age and built a career as a flight instructor. She participated in NASA's program for female astronaut candidates but was not selected due to her gender.

## A Woman Who Overcame Barriers

Despite the obstacles women faced in aviation and space, Funk achieved success in her career. By fulfilling her dream of space travel, she became an inspiration for future generations.

## Space Travel with Blue Origin

Funk was part of Blue Origin's first crewed flight, becoming one of the pioneers of space tourism. She demonstrated that space travel is possible not just for the young but for people of all ages.

## The Legacy of a Legend

Wally Funk will be remembered as a legend who paved the way for women in aviation and space. Her life and achievements serve as an example that it is possible to overcome barriers of gender and age.

## Sources covering this story

- [NYT > Science — Wally Funk, Woman Who Set Age Record in Space Travel, Dies at 87](https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/09/science/space/wally-funk-dead.html)
- [Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories — Wally Funk, Oldest Female Pioneer of Space, Passes Away](https://phys.org/news/2026-07-wally-funk-aviation-oldest-woman.html)

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._