Dorothy Vaughan was an African American mathematician, computer programmer and NASA scientist who made great contributions towards the development of space exploration. She is best remembered for her pioneering work in mathematics, computer programming and her distinct leadership in making certain branches of mathematics more popular.
In 1943, Dorothy Vaughan joined the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later became NASA. During her time at NACA and NASA, Vaughan worked as a “computer” and mathematician in the segregated group of four hundred “computers” who were the backbone of America’s early space exploration efforts.
Vaughan’s most impressive work was in programming and using early electronic computers like the IBM 704. Her team programmed the first man-made object to ever enter space, the unmanned satellites of Explorer I and II. Vaughan’s work with computers made her very valuable in the newly formed Space Task Group and led to her becoming NACA’s first African American supervisor in 1958.
In addition to her accomplishments in space exploration, Vaughan also made significant contributions to mathematics. She was the first African American to join the segregated West Area Computing unit at NACA and the first to be promoted to the position of head supervisor. She was the co-author of the first guide on FORTRAN programming language, an influential computer language. She was also responsible for teaching countless individuals the mathematics and programming techniques that would help shape the future of computing.
Dorothy Vaughan's lasting legacy served as an inspiration to countless people and her memory continues to shape the future of computing. She was a trailblazer in mathematics and space exploration, as well as a symbol of hope for African Americans. Today, she is remembered for her incredible work in making mathematics and computer programming more accessible to everyone.
