Question
Here is the question : NASA WORKERS WHO MADE MATHEMATICAL CALCULATIONS WERE CALLED WHAT?
Option
Here is the option for the question :
- Bookkeepers
- Prospectors
- Spelunkers
- Computers
The Answer:
And, the answer for the the question is :
Explanation:
From the 1940s through the 1960s, NASA relied on human ‘computers’ to conduct computations with consistent accuracy. The determination of the positions and trajectories of spacecraft was the primary responsibility of NASA’s computers, which were staffed mostly by women and frequently by people of African American descent. NASA missions such as the 1969 moon landing couldn’t have succeeded without the assistance of human computers. The women who worked as computers for NASA who were portrayed in the film “Hidden Figures” in 2016 are named Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson.
The Unsung Heroes of NASA: The Human “Computers”
In the early days of space exploration, long before the advent of powerful electronic computers, there existed a group of brilliant individuals who played a crucial role in the success of NASA’s missions. These unsung heroes were known as “computers.” However, unlike the machines we associate with the term today, these were exceptional mathematicians and scientists who performed complex calculations by hand. Their dedication, precision, and intellect were instrumental in propelling humanity into the cosmos.
During the mid-20th century, when NASA was still in its infancy, the field of electronic computing was still in its nascent stages. The bulky, room-sized computers that we now take for granted were yet to be developed. In this era, human computers were tasked with performing intricate mathematical calculations necessary for space exploration, satellite launches, and trajectory calculations. Their work was essential for ensuring the success and safety of astronauts and spacecraft.
The term “computer” was used to describe these individuals because they effectively functioned as human calculators. They possessed an exceptional aptitude for mathematics, possessing the skills to solve complex equations, perform intricate calculations, and analyze vast amounts of data. Without the luxury of electronic computers, these remarkable minds had to rely solely on their intellect and expertise to tackle the complex mathematical challenges presented by space exploration.
NASA’s human computers were predominantly women, as the field of mathematics and science was, at the time, largely male-dominated. These brilliant women used their skills not only to perform calculations but also to analyze data, develop algorithms, and make critical contributions to the field of aerospace engineering. They played a vital role in the success of early space missions, such as the Mercury and Apollo programs.
The work of the human computers required painstaking attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to accuracy. They meticulously checked and rechecked their calculations, knowing that even the smallest error could have catastrophic consequences in the vastness of space. Their dedication and precision were the bedrock upon which the success of NASA’s missions was built.
The contributions of the human computers extended beyond their mathematical prowess. They faced significant challenges, including gender and racial discrimination, as the field was dominated by white males. Despite these barriers, these exceptional individuals persevered, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of women and minorities in STEM fields.
As technology advanced, electronic computers gradually replaced the human computers. The development of more powerful and compact computing machines revolutionized the field of aerospace engineering and made complex calculations significantly more efficient. The tr