Katherine Johnson, born as Creola Katherine Coleman on August 26, 1918, was a remarkable mathematician and one of the first African American women to work at NASA. Her contributions to the field of space exploration were instrumental in the success of numerous space missions. Sadly, Katherine Johnson passed away on February 24, 2020, at the age of 101 in Newport News, Virginia.
Born in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, Katherine Johnson grew up in a time when racial and gender discrimination were prevalent. Despite facing numerous obstacles, she displayed an exceptional talent for mathematics from a young age. Johnson’s mother, Joylette, was a teacher, and her father, Joshua Coleman, worked as a farmer and janitor. Their support and encouragement played a crucial role in shaping her future.
Johnson’s academic brilliance led her to pursue higher education at West Virginia State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree. Her mathematical skills did not go unnoticed, and in 1953, Johnson joined the West Area Computing unit at NASA’s predecessor, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA). Here, she worked as a “human computer,” performing complex calculations manually, as electronic computers were not yet widely available.
As her career progressed, Katherine Johnson’s exceptional abilities became evident, and she was chosen to work on the trajectory analysis for the first human spaceflight by an American, Alan Shepard. She played a crucial role in calculating the launch window and trajectory for the historic Mercury-Redstone 3 mission, which successfully carried Shepard into space in 1961.
Johnson’s contributions didn’t stop there. She also provided critical calculations for the Apollo program, helping to ensure the safe return of astronauts from their lunar missions. Her calculations were relied upon for precision navigation, including the Apollo 11 mission that landed the first humans on the moon in 1969.
Despite facing racial and gender discrimination throughout her career, Katherine Johnson’s remarkable intellect and determination paved the way for future generations of women and minorities in the field of science and technology. Her groundbreaking work and profound impact on space exploration earned her numerous accolades and recognition, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which she received in 2015 from President Barack Obama.
Katherine Johnson’s passing on February 24, 2020, marked the end of an era. Her legacy as a trailblazing mathematician and a symbol of perseverance and resilience will continue to inspire generations to come.
Who Did Katherine Johnson Die?
Katherine Johnson, born Creola Katherine Coleman on August 26, 1918, in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, passed away on February 24, 2020, at the age of 101 in Newport News, Virginia. Katherine Johnson was also known as Katherine Goble. She attended West Virginia State University, where she obtained her Bachelor’s degree.
What Was The IQ Of Katherine Johnson?
Katherine Johnson, a remarkable mathematician and trailblazer at NASA, is estimated to have had an IQ of 162. Her exceptional intelligence allowed her to make groundbreaking contributions to the field of space exploration. As one of the first African American women to work at NASA, Johnson’s work was instrumental in the success of several crucial missions, including the Apollo 11 moon landing. Her calculations and computations were relied upon by NASA to ensure the safety and accuracy of these missions. Johnson’s IQ score of 162 places her among the ranks of highly gifted individuals, reflecting her exceptional intellectual abilities and problem-solving skills.
Who Was The First Black Woman In NASA?
The first black woman to work at NASA was Mary Jackson. She was a mathematician and aerospace engineer who made significant contributions to the field. In 1951, Jackson joined the West Computers at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later became NASA. Her role involved performing complex calculations and analyzing data to support various aeronautical research projects.
Jackson’s intelligence and expertise led to her promotion as an aerospace engineer in 1958, making her the first black female engineer at NASA. She worked in the Flight Research Division, where she conducted research and helped develop experimental aircraft. Jackson’s work was instrumental in improving flight safety and efficiency.
Throughout her career, Jackson faced various challenges due to racial and gender discrimination. However, she persevered and became an advocate for equal opportunities in the workplace. Jackson’s determination and accomplishments paved the way for future generations of black women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
In recognition of her contributions, Mary Jackson received numerous awards and honors. In 2019, NASA named its Headquarters building in Washington, D.C., after her. Her story was also featured in the book “Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly and the subsequent movie adaptation, bringing her achievements to a wider audience.
To summarize, Mary Jackson was the first black woman to work as an engineer at NASA. Her expertise, dedication, and advocacy for equal opportunities continue to inspire and empower individuals in the STEM community.
What Was Katherine’s Last Name Before Johnson?
Katherine Johnson’s last name before she got married was Coleman. She was born as Katherine Coleman in 1918 in White Sulfur Springs, West Virginia. Her parents were Joylette and Joshua Coleman. Her mother worked as a teacher, while her father was a farmer and a janitor.
Conclusion
Katherine Johnson was an exceptional mathematician and pioneer who defied societal barriers and made significant contributions to NASA’s space program. Born in 1918 in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, she overcame racial and gender discrimination to become one of the first African American women to work at NASA. Her exceptional intelligence, with an estimated IQ of 162, allowed her to excel in her field and play a vital role in calculating the trajectories for numerous space missions, including the historic Apollo 11 moon landing.
Johnson’s work was instrumental in ensuring the success and safety of NASA’s missions. Her calculations were relied upon to determine launch and landing times, as well as critical orbital maneuvers. Her accuracy and attention to detail were unparalleled, earning her the respect and admiration of her colleagues.
Beyond her remarkable mathematical abilities, Johnson’s perseverance and determination serve as an inspiration to generations of aspiring scientists and mathematicians, particularly women and people of color. She broke barriers and paved the way for future generations to pursue careers in STEM fields.
Throughout her career, Johnson received numerous honors and recognition for her contributions. In 2015, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, for her groundbreaking work. Her story was also popularized in the 2016 film “Hidden Figures,” bringing her achievements to a wider audience.
Katherine Johnson’s legacy will continue to inspire and empower individuals to pursue their passions and strive for excellence. Her remarkable intellect, perseverance, and dedication to her work have made an indelible impact on the field of mathematics and space exploration. She will forever be remembered as a trailblazer who shattered barriers and opened doors for others to follow.
