NASA has been home to countless remarkable women who have shaped the course of space exploration and inspired generations. Among them are Peggy Whitson, Ellen Ochoa, Mae Jemison, Sally Ride, and Katherine Johnson—each a trailblazer in her own right.

Peggy Whitson

A record-setting astronaut, Peggy Whitson has spent more time in space than any other American astronaut, with a total of 665 days. Known as the “Space Ninja,” Whitson served as NASA’s first female chief astronaut and was the first woman to command the International Space Station (ISS) twice.

Ellen Ochoa

A record-setting astronaut, Peggy Whitson has spent more time in space than any other American astronaut, with a total of 665 days. Known as the “Space Ninja,” Whitson served as NASA’s first female chief astronaut and was the first woman to command the International Space Station (ISS) twice.

Mae Jemison

In 1992, Mae Jemison became the first Black woman to travel to space, aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour. A physician and engineer, Jemison continues to advocate for STEM education, inspiring young people to reach for the stars.

Sally Ride

As the first American woman in space, Sally Ride broke barriers with her historic flight in 1983 aboard Challenger. A physicist and educator, she co-founded an organization to promote STEM education for girls.

Katherine Johnson

A pioneering mathematician, Katherine Johnson’s calculations were critical to the success of NASA’s early missions, including John Glenn’s orbit of Earth and the Apollo 11 moon landing.