Margaret Weitekamp, a curator of space history at the National Air and Space Museum, talks about Sally Ride's role as the first American woman in space, and how her leadership changed the perception of women in science.
Science & Innovation
Innovation is about more than inventing something new; it is about transforming and iterating on existing products, processes, or ideas.
Collection Objects
Learn the stories of these women or explore more collections related to women in science.
Conversation Kit
Let's Talk! Bessie Coleman: Community Innovator Conversation Kit
Bessie Coleman: Community Innovator Teaching and Discussion Guide
Grades 6–8. Time: Variable (1–2 class periods). Aligned with C3 standards.
In this conversation guide, students will learn about pilot Bessie Coleman, an innovator who sought to create change for her community. In exploring her story as the first woman of African American and Native American descent to earn a pilots license, students will examine the question: How do we bring change to our community?
Videos
Dr. Manuela Dal Forno is a research scientist with the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History. Ever since she was a young child, she would investigate the stuff growing on trees in her native Brazil. She now has dedicated her career to studying this "stuff": lichens. By examining lichens that she discovers in the field and ones housed in the U.S. National Herbarium, Manuela is discovering new species and unraveling the complex relationships among lichens' symbionts: fungus, algae, and other microorganisms.
Ellen Ochoa was the first Latina astronaut in space and first Latina, only the second woman, to serve as the Director of the Johnson Space Center, responsible for all astronaut activities for NASA. Find out how this daring and tenacious Latina went beyond the barrier and set new heights for young girls to reach for the stars.
Meet Shaesta Waiz. She's a young, female pilot who's making a solo trip around the world. Find out what inspires her and what advice she has for middle school students.
Roxy Laybourne was a pioneer in forensic ornithology whose work greatly improved the safety of flight. Carla Dove, program director of the National Museum of Natural History's Feather Identification Lab, shares the story of Laybourne.
Smithsonian American Women
Remarkable objects and stories of strength, ingenuity, and vision from the National Collection.
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