But her most famous contribution to NASA came in 1962, during John Glenns spaceflight.
NASA computers had been programmed with calculations, but Glenn didnt trust the machines.
He asked the engineers to have Johnson double-check the equations.
Eddy Chen/Walt Disney Television via Getty Images
If she says theyre good, then Im ready to go, Johnson recalled Glenn saying.
She did, and he was.
Her children were there, and her grandchildren.
I really felt a responsibility when her children met me.
They were like, We couldnt think of a better actress to play our mom.
I was like, No pressure!
She said multiple times, I dont know why youre making a movie about me.
I just did my work, he says.
Hidden Figureswas nominated for three Oscars, including Best Picture.
Thank you QUEEN#KatherineJohnsonfor sharing your intelligence, poise, grace and beauty with the world!
Because of your hard work little girls EVERYWHERE can dream as big as the MOON!!!
Henson wrote on Instagram after news of Johnsons death.
Your legacy will live on FORVER AND EVER!!!
You ran so we could fly!!!
I will forever be honored to have been apart of bringing your story to life.
You/your story was hidden and thank GOD you are#hiddennomore?God bless your beautiful family.
I am so honored to have sat and broke bread with you all.
