Katherine Johnson

Definition

Katherine Johnson was an African American mathematician whose calculations were critical to the success of NASA's early space missions, including the first American in space and the Apollo moon landing. Her groundbreaking work exemplifies the significant contributions of Black women in science and technology, particularly within the context of STEM education and advocacy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Katherine Johnson was born on August 26, 1918, in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, and showed exceptional mathematical talent from a young age.
2. She graduated summa cum laude from West Virginia University in 1937, becoming one of the first African American women to earn a degree in mathematics.
3. Johnson's calculations were instrumental in ensuring the success of John Glenn's orbit around Earth in 1962, as she verified the computer-generated trajectories.
4. She worked at NASA for over three decades, overcoming racial and gender barriers while contributing to various projects including the Apollo lunar missions.
5. In 2015, Katherine Johnson was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama for her contributions to mathematics and space exploration.

Review Questions

• How did Katherine Johnson's work impact early NASA missions and what challenges did she face as a Black woman in this field?
  • Katherine Johnson's calculations were pivotal for early NASA missions such as John Glenn's orbital flight. Despite facing significant racial and gender discrimination, she excelled in a male-dominated environment. Her persistence and talent allowed her to break barriers and prove her value to NASA, ultimately leading to successful space missions that relied heavily on her mathematical expertise.
• In what ways does Katherine Johnson's story highlight the broader issues of representation of Black women in STEM fields?
  • Katherine Johnson's story reflects the broader struggles for representation of Black women in STEM by showcasing her exceptional talent amidst systemic barriers. Her journey emphasizes the importance of diversity in scientific fields, as her contributions were often overlooked due to her race and gender. This not only illustrates the challenges faced by women like Johnson but also highlights the need for inclusion and support for underrepresented groups in STEM education and careers.
• Evaluate the significance of Katherine Johnson’s legacy within both STEM education and advocacy for future generations of scientists.
  • Katherine Johnson’s legacy is immensely significant as it inspires future generations to pursue careers in STEM fields regardless of their background. By overcoming obstacles and making substantial contributions to space exploration, she serves as a role model who illustrates that talent can emerge from any community. Her story advocates for educational programs that encourage young girls and minorities to engage with science and mathematics, promoting equity in opportunities within these critical disciplines.

Related terms

NASA: The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, a United States government agency responsible for the nation's civilian space program and for aeronautics and aerospace research.

Hidden Figures: A book and film that tells the story of Katherine Johnson and her colleagues, highlighting their crucial contributions to NASA during the Space Race, while also addressing issues of race and gender in the workplace.

STEM: An acronym that stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, fields that are often emphasized for their importance in economic growth and innovation.