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
Women have always played a foundational role in science, technology, engineering, and math—from biologists protecting endangered species to astronomers mapping the universe to the "hidden figures" who solved mathematical equations for space flight.
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
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.
Although no women traveled to the Moon as part of the Apollo program, there were a small number of women involved in the Apollo program, including engineers, mathematicians, and doctors. Hear from three women who worked on Apollo missions to learn about how they got involved in the program, their inspiration, and obstacles they faced.
Learn about Alida Ortiz Sotomayor, the first Puerto Rican woman to obtain a Ph.D. in Marine Sciences from the University of Puerto Rico in Mayagüez in 1976.
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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