Breaking Barriers to the Moon and Back:
How Margaret Hamilton's Software Sent
Men to the Moon
As an Inspiration
NASA logo. NASA. No date.
Margaret Hamilton’s work is foundational to software engineering and coding. She proved software’s significance during the Apollo Missions, and modern computers would not function as they do without her innovation.
In 2003, NASA awarded Hamilton its Exceptional Space Act Award for her work during Project Apollo. The honor included $37,200, NASA’s highest financial award ever given.
On November 22, 2016, Barack Obama awarded Hamilton the Presidential Medal of Freedom for contributing to Apollo 11’s success.
Illustration of Margaret Hamitlon from Good Night
Stories for Rebel Girls. Listen Notes. No date.
President Barack Obama presents the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Margaret H. Hamilton during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House. The White House Obama Archives. Nov 22, 2016.
Margaret and the Moon Book Cover. Marisa Triola. April 11, 2020..
Hamilton’s legacy serves as an inspiration for the next generation of female innovators. Children can encounter her story through recent releases such as Legos “Women of NASA” set (2017), Margaret and the Moon (2017), and Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls (2016).
Margaret Hamilton Lego figure. Lego. No Date.