Counting the Stars

Before John Glenn's historic orbit and the moon landing, a group of remarkable female mathematicians known as "human computers" meticulously calculated the necessary trajectories for spacecraft launches. Among them was Katherine Johnson, who, despite the challenges of Jim Crow laws, made significant contributions at NACA (later NASA). In 1962, her expertise was vital for John Glenn's mission, leading him to famously request her to verify the calculations essential for his flight. Katherine's accomplishments were later recognized when she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama, inspiring the Oscar-nominated film Hidden Figures.