Ryan and Her MINI Go to Space

When Ryan’s MINI Adventure was born, imaginations soared at all of the possible journeys a little girl’s favorite toy may enjoy. There were events to attend, people to meet, places to visit and frontiers to explore. Dreams provide inspiration and encouragement, and there was no greater dream than to one day have Ryan’s MINI make the ultimate journey, a journey beyond Earth itself.

Ryan’s MINI in the Japanese Experiment Module – rear window, International Space Station

Ryan in the Japanese Experiment Module – rear window, International Space Station

NASA Astronaut Leland Melvin has devoted his career to educating children on space exploration, encouraging them to embrace science, engineering and math. Astronaut Melvin visited Ryan’s MINI Adventure at the request of Ryan’s cousin and was so touched by Ryan’s story that he made an unbelievable offer to take Ryan’s MINI and spirit to Space aboard STS-129.

Every child deserves to be given an opportunity to be whatever they dream of being. They are today’s joys and tomorrow’s future. Ryan’s family finds great comfort, pride and love knowing that for one moment in time, Ryan reached an unbelievable height and proved that “Little Girls Can Do Big Things!!” Thank you Astronaut Melvin!!!