FAQ About Women in the History of Medicine

The term "Hidden Figures" refers to a group of African American women mathematicians and engineers who made significant contributions to the early days of the U.S. space program, particularly at NASA (the National Aeronautics and Space Administration). Their work was vital in the fields of mathematics, engineering, and space science, including space medicine. While they are best known for their roles in the broader space program, their contributions indirectly impacted space medicine through their work in the larger aerospace community. Some notable "Hidden Figures" include:

• Katherine Johnson: Katherine Johnson was a mathematician and physicist known for her precise calculations related to orbital mechanics and trajectories. Her work was instrumental in the success of several early space missions, including the first human spaceflight by an American, Alan Shepard. Her calculations helped ensure the safety of astronauts during their missions.
• Dorothy Vaughan: Dorothy Vaughan was a mathematician and computer programmer who worked as the supervisor of the West Area Computers, a group of African American women mathematicians at NASA. Her leadership and expertise in programming were crucial in the early days of electronic computing.
• Mary Jackson: Mary Jackson was an engineer and mathematician who worked at NASA. She started as a human computer and later became NASA's first female African American engineer. Her work involved studying the aerodynamics and thermal characteristics of aircraft and spacecraft.
• Dr. Christine Darden: Although not featured in the book and film "Hidden Figures," Dr. Christine Darden was another African American mathematician and engineer at NASA. Her research focused on supersonic flight and sonic boom prediction, areas that have implications for astronaut safety and space vehicle design.