#blackscientists

Valerie L. Thomas is a physicist and inventor, best known for her creation of the illusion transmitter, for which she holds the patent, while working for NASA in the 1970s-80s.

This technology uses two concave mirrors to create 3D optical illusion images, which has been adapted for use in surgery imaging as well as the television and film industry.

During her 30-year career at NASA Valerie Thomas oversaw multiple innovative projects, including the creation of the Landsat program, the longest-running enterprise to obtain satellite imagery of Earth.

Her expertise and creative thinking have advanced our understanding of the universe and influenced the construction of imaging technology that remains impactful to this day.

Dr. Minnie Joycelyn Elders is an army veteran, pediatric endocrinologist, and public health administrator who was appointed the first African American Surgeon General of the United States by Bill Clinton in 1993.

Her outspoken views on female reproductive rights and science-based sex education in high schools made her a controversial public figure, prompting massive backlash from conservative parties of the time.

After her resignation as Surgeon General in 1994, Elders returned to her former position as professor of pediatric endocrinology at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences where she is currently a professor emeritus and remains active in public health education.

You can learn more about Dr. Elders in her 1996 autobiography, Joycelyn Elders, M.D.: From Sharecropper’s Daughter to Surgeon General of the United States of America.

Hey all! It’s February which means it’s time for our annual #BlackHistoryMonth⁠ ⁠scientist highlights!

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Check back routinely to learn more about the wonderful contributions made by black scientists!

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To start us off, meet Dr. Joan Murrell Owens, a scientist, educator, and marine biology enthusiast! Pursuing her passion for the ocean, Dr. Murrell investigated different coral species, specifically deep-sea button coral. Working at the Smithsonian, Joan identified a new family of corals, the Rhombopsammia genus, and discovered three new button coral species.