Katherine Johnson

The story, in brief.

Creola Katherine Johnson was an American mathematician and human computer whose calculations of orbital mechanics as a NASA employee were critical to the success of the first and subsequent U.S. crewed spaceflights. During her 33-year career at NASA and its predecessor, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, she earned a reputation for mastering complex manual calculations and helped pioneer the use of computers to perform tasks previously requiring humans. The space agency noted her "historical role as one of the first African-American women to work as a NASA scientist".

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A life in milestones.

Selected records from Wikidata. Ages are approximate; “c.” marks uncertain dates. This is a starting point for exploration, not a complete life history.

1. 1918
   Life

   Born in White Sulphur Springs

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2. 1933~ age 15
   Education

   West Virginia State University

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3. 1953~ age 35
   Work

   National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics

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4. 1958~ age 40
   Work

   National Aeronautics and Space Administration

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5. 2015~ age 97
   Recognition

   Presidential Medal of Freedom

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6. 2015~ age 97
   Recognition

   NCWIT Pioneer in Tech Award

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7. 2016~ age 98
   Recognition

   BBC 100 Women

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8. 2016~ age 98
   Recognition

   Arthur B.C. Walker II Award

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9. 2017~ age 99
   Recognition

   honorary degree from Spelman College

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10. 2019~ age 101
    Recognition

    Congressional Gold Medal

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11. 2020~ age 102
    Recognition

    Hubbard Medal

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12. 2020~ age 102
    Life

    Death

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