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Katherine Johnson

Overview

The human computer who sent us to the moon.

Missing Image
(Portrait)

What is it?

NASA mathematician whose calculations of orbital mechanics were critical to the success of the first US spaceflights.

History

1918-2020. Astronaut John Glenn refused to launch until she personally verified the computer's numbers.

Key Idea

She calculated the trajectory for Apollo 11. Without her, they might have missed the moon.