Katherine Johnson was the NASA mathematician who made the critical calculations that enabled John Glenn to orbit the Earth in 1962. She was a "human computer" at Langley Research Center, helping to ensure the success of early NASA missions. Katherine Johnson's Contributions: Project Mercury: Johnson was instrumental in calculating the trajectory and launch window for John Glenn's mission, the first American to orbit Earth. Apollo 11: She also played a key role in calculating the trajectory for the Apollo 11 mission, which landed the first humans on the Moon. Orbital Mechanics: Her expertise in orbital mechanics was crucial for ensuring the safety and success of these and other early NASA missions. Break Barriers: As a Black woman in a field dominated by men, Katherine Johnson broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of women in STEM. Hidden Figures: Her story is highlighted in the movie "Hidden Figures," which celebrates the contributions of African American women mathematicians at NASA. #blaqhistory