![]() The pioneering mathematician was part of NASA’s “Computer Pool,” a group of mathematicians whose data powered the agency’s first successful space missions. Her work went largely unrecognized until the release of “Hidden Figures.” Johnson’s work made early space missions possible Katherine Johnson was an asset to our space program, and I am honored to work for a mission that expands her legacy even further.” “Fifty-nine years ago today, astronaut John Glenn became the first American to orbit Earth after personally asking for Katherine Johnson to verify his Mercury missions’ orbital trajectory calculations. “As a Black woman, Katherine Johnson shattered race and gender barriers to live out her dreams and become a pivotal part of this country’s young space program,” he said in a statement. ![]() That the spacecraft bears the name of Johnson, who also inspired the 2016 film “Hidden Figures,” is an “honor,” said Adi Boulos, the lead NASA flight director for the mission. Katherine Johnson will be at the International Space Station until May, when it will make its fiery journey back to Earth, disposing of several thousands of trash along the way, according to a news release. It also brings advanced computing to the space station and upgrades to clean air and water systems for the crew there. The spacecraft will support experiments that are exploring treatments to restore vision to those with retinal degenerative diseases, why astronauts experience muscle weakening in microgravity and how astronauts sleep in space, among others. ![]() Katherine Johnson, famed NASA mathematician and inspiration for the film 'Hidden Figures,' is dead at 101
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