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Mae Jemison

B.Oct 17, 1956-Present

Astronaut

Mae Jemison Hand-Picked Quotes

Mae Jemison is a remarkable figure in American history, known for her groundbreaking achievements in science and space exploration. She became the first African American woman to travel in space when she went aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992. Jemison's journey to the stars was fueled by her passion for science and her determination to pursue her dreams, no matter the obstacles.

Before her historic space flight, Jemison had already made significant strides in her career. She is a talented engineer and a physician, showcasing her versatile skills and interests. Jemison's work as a general practitioner and her time with the Peace Corps in West Africa demonstrate her dedication to improving human health and well-being.

Jemison's contributions to science and space exploration have inspired countless young people, especially girls and minorities, to consider careers in STEM fields. She believes strongly in the importance of education and has been involved in various projects aimed at encouraging students to pursue their interests in science and technology.

After leaving NASA, Jemison didn't slow down. She continued to lead and participate in initiatives focused on technology, healthcare, and sustainability. Her leadership in the 100 Year Starship project shows her commitment to advancing human space exploration for future generations. Jemison's life and work remind us that with courage and persistence, we can achieve our highest aspirations.

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In the words of Mae Jemison:

In space, you need to exercise your heart since it's not pumping blood around at the same rate.

I wanted to be a professional dancer for a period of time, and I did a lot of dancing and choreography and got paid for it.

People like space. But they sometimes have been left out. People are much more open to that if you invite them in.

You have the right to be involved. You have something important to contribute, and you have to take the risk to contribute it.

The fact we don't have a lunar base has nothing to do with the technology. It has to do with public commitment and societal support.

The thing that I have done throughout my life is to do the best job that I can and to be me.

I like to think of ideas as potential energy. They're really wonderful, but nothing will happen until we risk putting them into action.

Some people say they feel very small when they think about space. I felt more expansive, very connected to the universe.

As an astronaut, you have a very defined set of tasks to do. Those tasks may require you to work 60, 70 or 80 hours a week.

My parents were comfortable with me exploring areas that they were not proficient in. Some parents just aren't comfortable with that.

Never be limited by other people's limited imaginations.

I had great mentors in my parents who always sought to understand the world around them. And they would push me to really think things through.

Science provides an understanding of a universal experience. Arts provide a universal understanding of a personal experience.

My perspective is the Earth will be here. It just may not be habitable to our life form. We get confused. We think we're the center of everything.

There are individuals who can support you, but frequently, you have to risk putting yourself out there - and sometimes you just have to push.

The level of confidence women are able to build in women-only groups is important.

In fourth grade, I was interested in all areas of science. I particularly loved learning about how the earth was created.

I was thinking as a little girl growing up that I would be there. When I look at whether we can go to Mars, it's definitely something we can do.

Science provides an understanding of a universal experience, and arts provides a universal understanding of a personal experience.

To survive as a species on this planet, we're going to have to see ourselves as Earthlings.

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