Mae Jemison Biography – Discover the inspiring journey of Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman in space. Learn about her net worth, age, education, early life, family, major discoveries, fun facts, and career achievements.
Mae Jemison is an engineer, physician, and former NASA astronaut who made history as the first African-American woman to travel to space aboard the Endeavour shuttle in 1992. Her groundbreaking journey inspired generations, proving that science, determination, and courage can break barriers. Beyond her space mission, she has had a remarkable career in medicine, education, and technology, further contributing to space exploration and STEM advocacy.
Mae Jemison Biography: Personal Overview
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mae Carol Jemison |
| Date of Birth | October 17, 1956 |
| Age (2024) | 67 years old |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | B.S. in Chemical Engineering (Stanford University), M.D. (Cornell University) |
| Family | Parents: Charlie and Dorothy Jemison; Siblings: Ada Jemison Bullock, Charles Jemison |
| Major Discovery | Developed advancements in satellite-based medical technology |
| Career Start | General practitioner before joining NASA in 1987 |
| Career Achievements | First African-American woman in space, NASA astronaut, medical researcher, professor |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $5 million |
| Notable Work | STS-47 Space Mission, The Jemison Group, STEM Advocacy |
Key Takeaways
- Mae Jemison was the first African-American woman in space.
- She has degrees in chemical engineering and medicine.
- Before NASA, she worked as a medical doctor in the U.S. and Africa.
- Jemison’s space mission was aboard Endeavour (STS-47) in 1992.
- She later founded The Jemison Group, focused on technology and medical advancements.
- She is a STEM education advocate, encouraging young people to pursue science careers.
- Her net worth is estimated at $5 million.
- Jemison has received multiple honorary doctorates and awards.
Early Life and Family
Mae Carol Jemison was born on October 17, 1956, in Decatur, Alabama, but she grew up in Chicago, Illinois. She was the youngest of three children in a family that valued education and curiosity. Her father, Charlie Jemison, was a maintenance supervisor, while her mother, Dorothy Jemison, was a teacher.
From a young age, Mae showed an interest in science, space, and engineering. She was inspired by Star Trek and the Apollo moon landings but was frustrated by the lack of female astronauts and African-Americans in space.
Education and Academic Excellence
Mae excelled in academics and graduated from Morgan Park High School in 1973 at just 16 years old. She then attended Stanford University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering while also studying African and African-American studies.
She later attended Cornell University Medical College, where she obtained her Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) in 1981. While at Cornell, she conducted medical research in Cuba, Kenya, and Thailand.
Early Career in Medicine
After earning her M.D., Mae Jemison worked as a general practitioner in Los Angeles before joining the Peace Corps (1983-1985) as a medical officer in West Africa. Her work focused on vaccinations, healthcare infrastructure, and research on illnesses like hepatitis B.
NASA Career and Space Exploration
Joining NASA
Inspired by astronaut Sally Ride, Mae Jemison applied to NASA’s astronaut program in 1985. She was accepted in 1987, becoming the first African-American woman astronaut.
Space Mission (STS-47)
On September 12, 1992, Jemison made history as a mission specialist aboard Endeavour (STS-47). During the mission, she conducted scientific experiments on weightlessness and motion sickness, proving that human biology adapts to space.
Her time in space lasted 7 days, 22 hours, and 30 minutes, solidifying her place in history.
Post-NASA Career and Achievements
After leaving NASA in 1993, Mae Jemison continued making significant contributions:
- Founded The Jemison Group – A technology research company focused on improving healthcare through satellite technology.
- Established the Dorothy Jemison Foundation for Excellence, promoting STEM education for youth.
- Led the 100-Year Starship Project, a NASA-funded initiative aimed at making interstellar travel possible.
- Taught at Dartmouth College and Cornell University as a professor of environmental studies.
- Appeared on Star Trek: The Next Generation in 1993, fulfilling her childhood dream.
Major Discoveries and Contributions
Mae Jemison has contributed significantly to science and technology:
- Space Medicine Research – Her NASA work helped advance our understanding of how space affects human physiology.
- Telemedicine Innovations – Through The Jemison Group, she worked on satellite-based healthcare solutions for remote areas.
- 100-Year Starship Project – Advocating for the possibility of interstellar travel.
Fun Facts About Mae Jemison
- She was inspired by Star Trek’s Uhura, played by Nichelle Nichols.
- She is the first real astronaut to appear on Star Trek.
- She speaks multiple languages, including Russian, Swahili, and Japanese.
- She holds nine honorary doctorates from prestigious universities.
- She was an accomplished dancer and even considered a dance career before choosing science.
Net Worth
Mae Jemison’s net worth is estimated at $5 million, earned through her work as a NASA astronaut, doctor, entrepreneur, and speaker.
Conclusion
Mae Jemison’s life is a powerful example of determination, intelligence, and passion. From being a young girl who dreamed of space to making history as the first African-American woman astronaut, she has used her platform to inspire others and drive technological advancements. Her contributions to science, education, and space exploration continue to impact the world today.
FAQs About Mae Jemison Biography
1. What was Mae Jemison’s most significant achievement?
Mae Jemison’s greatest achievement was becoming the first African-American woman to travel to space aboard Endeavour (STS-47) in 1992.
2. What is Mae Jemison’s educational background?
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Stanford University and a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) from Cornell University.
3. How did Mae Jemison contribute to medicine?
She worked as a medical doctor and served in the Peace Corps, focusing on global health, vaccines, and telemedicine.
4. What is the 100-Year Starship Project?
It is a NASA-funded initiative led by Jemison, aiming to make human interstellar travel possible within the next century.
5. What is Mae Jemison’s current net worth?
Her estimated net worth is $5 million, accumulated from her NASA career, medical work, business ventures, and speaking engagements.
