Dorothy Vaughan
Mathematician and NASA Computers leader
Born
Died
2008
18 years ago — 98 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
A mathematician who contributed to the United States' efforts in aeronautics and space exploration. Worked at NASA's Langley Research Center, becoming the first Black supervisor there. Specialized in programming and the use of computers in mathematics, particularly during the space race. Played a significant role in utilizing computer technology for calculations that supported various NASA missions.
Supervised NASA's West Area Computing section
Contributed to the Project Mercury space program
Authored papers on the use of FORTRAN programming
Other People Born on September 20th
Juan Pablo Montoya
Colombian race car driver, 2000 Indy 500 champion
Born
September 20th, 1975 50 years ago
Born in Colombia, a prominent race car driver achieved significant success in open-wheel racing. Competed in the IndyCar Series, winning the 2000 Indianapolis 500. Transitioned to Formula One, driving for Williams and McLaren. Claimed multiple Grand Prix victories during tenure in F1. Returned to NASCAR, where victories included the prestigious Daytona 500 in 2007. Recognized for versatility across different racing disciplines.
Continue ReadingFerenc Szisz
Racing driver; first Grand Prix winner
Born
September 20th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
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Continue ReadingChulalongkorn
Siamese king and modernizer
Born
September 20th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1910 115 years ago — 57 years old
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Continue ReadingCaroline Flint
Politician and Minister of State for Europe
Born
September 20th, 1961 64 years ago
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Continue ReadingClarice Taylor
American actress from The Cosby Show
Born
September 20th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2011 15 years ago — 93 years old
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Continue ReadingSidney Dillon Ripley
American ornithologist and academic
Born
September 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
2001 25 years ago — 88 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of ornithology through extensive research, field studies, and academic leadership. Served as the secretary of the Smithsonian Institution from 1964 to 1984, overseeing the institution's growth and development. Authored numerous publications, focusing on bird conservation and ecological studies. Advocated for environmental issues and contributed to the establishment of several national wildlife refuges.
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