Katherine Johnson
West Virginia University
Mathematics
Year of Ph.D. or highest degree: 1937
orbital mechanics, aerospace engineering
Orbital Dynamics, Astrodynamics, Numerical Methods in Physics, Calculus, Linear Algebra, Spacecraft Dynamics and Control, Advanced Laboratory Techniques
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katherine_Johnson
K12 , UGLD
Scientist Biography
Biographical information
Katherine Johnson was an American mathematician whose calculations of orbital mechanics were critical to the success of the first U.S. manned spaceflights. During her 35-year career at NASA and its predecessor, she earned a reputation for mastering complex manual calculations and helped pioneer the use of computers to perform tasks.
Relevant Concepts
Trajectory Analysis, Spacecraft NavigationResearch Areas:
orbital mechanics, aerospace engineeringKey Contributions
Developed new mathematical techniques for use in space travel.
Calculated the trajectories for Project Mercury and the Apollo 11 flight to the Moon.