Student Article

When Neil Armstrong became the first person to walk on the Moon in 1969, he represented a huge achievement for humanity. But behind this moment were many women whose contributions were essential.

Launching Apollo 11

JoAnn Morgan was the only female engineer in the Launch Control Center during Apollo 11. She handled the technology that tracked the launch, a role few women were allowed to have at the time.

Saving the Moon landing

Margaret Hamilton led the team that wrote the computer software guiding the spacecraft. Her code was so reliable that it helped prevent a crash when the guidance system overloaded during the landing.

Bringing Apollo 13 home

Another key figure was Judith Love Cohen, an engineer who worked on the Apollo 13 mission. When the ship’s service module exploded, her design for the Abort Guidance System helped the astronauts return safely.

Sewing spacesuits by hand

Women also contributed in less recognized but equally vital roles. Seamstresses at ILC Dover, who once made girdles, crafted the Apollo spacesuits by hand. Their precise stitching ensured the suits could withstand the Moon’s harsh conditions.

Well-deserved credit

Although women were not part of the Apollo astronaut crew, their dedication helped shape the success of the missions. Today, more women are reaching for the stars as astronauts, scientists, and engineers.

© Sue Nelson / Our Media