Katherine Johnson, NASA mathematician, has died at 101 (nytimes.com)

Article summary

Katherine Johnson, a NASA mathematician, has died at 101. She calculated precise trajectories for Apollo 11 and other missions, often double-checking electronic computer calculations. Her work was crucial to the success of these missions. Johnson's contributions were recognized late in her life, including in the movie Hidden Figures.

Main themes

• NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson
• manual calculations and verification
• recognition and appreciation
• Hidden Figures movie accuracy
• underappreciated contributions
• importance of mentors and opportunities

What commenters say

• Katherine Johnson's manual calculations were staggering given the consequences of potential mistakes.
• The quality of her work is impressive regardless of the time period or methods used.
• Digital computers were in their infancy during Johnson's time and often required manual verification.
• The movie Hidden Figures took creative liberties with Johnson's story, but its accuracy is a subject of debate.
• Johnson's recognition came late in her life, highlighting the issue of underappreciated contributions from women and minorities.
• The importance of mentors and opportunities is crucial for individuals to reach their full potential.
• The movie Hidden Figures may have exaggerated the segregation and racism faced by Johnson, but it did bring attention to her achievements.
• The lack of recognition for many contributors to historic projects like Mercury and Apollo is a broader issue that affects many individuals, not just women and minorities.