Maria Mitchell, Astronomer (1818-1889) - was born in Nantucket, Massachusetts and grew up during a time in United States history when women were commonly thought of as inferior beings. In the 1800's, the children, property and earnings of woman belonged by law to their husbands... and women certainly didn't have the right to vote. However, Maria Mitchell's sense of independence and self-belief helped her break through these incredible social, legal and professional barriers to forge new paths for future generations of scientists and women. Maria Mitchell's "Can Do!" attitude, spirit and belief in her abilities inspired her to open her own school when she was 17 years old. A year later she became the first Librarian of Nantucket's Antheneum Library, a position she enjoyed because she could read and continue her independent studies in astronomy. In 1847, while helping her father take star measurements for the United States Coast Guard, Maria Mitchell discovered a comet positioned five degrees above the North Star. This become known as "Mitchell's Comet" and brought her international recognition. Eventually Maria became the first female professor of astronomy in the United States when she was granted a teaching position at Vasaar College in Poughkeepsie, New York in 1865. Throughout history individuals have faced many different types of overwhelming challenges. Some are physical challenges, some are social challenges, some are legal challenges... and many are challenges we place on ourselves by thinking we simply "can't" do, rather than finding a way we can. Maria Mitchell obviously had a true "Can Do!" attitude and approach to life - which helped her become the first female astronomer and professor of astronomy in the United States.
View Maria Mitchell's constellation on The North Star web site.
To learn more about Maria Mitchell, visit these web sites:
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