NASA Math Mathematician Katherine Johnson Portrayed In Hidden Figures Dies At 101

Katherine Johnson, our real life Hidden Figure was one of the first Black women to work as a NASA scientist has passed away at 101 Monday, February 24, 2020. In the book and movie Hidden Figures Katherine Johnson character was played by Taraji P. Henson.

This Nasa mathematician was all about numbers and if you watched the movie or read the book you would know she was a computer before there were computers.

Nasa administrator Jim Bridenstine said in a statement on twitter

Our @NASA family is sad to learn the news that Katherine Johnson passed away this morning at 101 years old. She was an American hero and her pioneering legacy will never be forgotten.

It was Katherine Johnsons's skills and dedication that assisted in there being capabilities to walk on the Moon which lead to a journey on Mars. She was the "go to" and her calculations were trusted, not just woman that could count but one who could be counted on.

This figure was truly hidden from the history books. If it wasn't for the book or the movie Hidden Figures I wouldn't know her at all.  I'm so grateful for her commitment to excellence and perseverance during such a trying time for women, especially women of color.  Salute to the trailblazer and legend.

Learn more about Katherine Johnsons life and legacy here.

Source: YouTube ABC News