Who is Sable from Time's Eye and what is their importance?

The only American crew member of the Soyuz, Sable is somewhat coarse and is the closest thing to a passenger on the trip. Though trained on the ship's systems, it is mostly agreed that if she had been Russian and subject to the psychological tests each Russian cosmonaut must pass, she would never have made it onto the Soyuz. Forty years of age, Sable originates from a poor New Orleans family and her strength of character helped her to realize her dreams. While she carries a huge chip on her shoulder, she is resourceful and intelligent.