Maria Mitchell: A Trailblazer in Astronomy

Maria Mitchell was a pioneering female astronomer in America, known for discovering a telescopic comet and being the first woman elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. She taught at Vassar College, where she challenged gender norms, and worked for the U.S. government as a computer of Venus. Despite her shyness, she became a public figure and mentor, advocating for women in science until her death.

What was Maria Mitchell's significant achievement as a teenager?

• She was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

• She was hired by the U.S. federal government.

• She became the first female professor at Vassar College.

• She discovered a telescopic comet.

What was the name given to the comet discovered by Maria Mitchell?

• Halley's Comet

• Vassar Comet

• Mitchell's Comet

• C1847T1

What challenge did Maria Mitchell face at Vassar College?

• Inadequate teaching facilities

• Opposition from male colleagues

• Restrictions on female students going outside after dark

• Lack of funding for research

What was Maria Mitchell's role in the U.S. federal government?

• Astronomer Royal

• Director of the U.S. Naval Observatory

• Computer of Venus

• Chief Scientist of NASA

Why was Maria Mitchell's work on the Nautical Almanac important?

• It was used for ocean navigation before GPS.

• It helped predict weather patterns.

• It provided data for space missions.

• It was the first almanac published by a woman.

By the age of 40, what was Maria Mitchell known for?

• Her political activism

• Her celebrity status as a scientist

• Her wealth and influence

• Her artistic achievements

What personal challenge did Maria Mitchell overcome to mentor others?

• Lack of formal education

• Shyness

• Health issues

• Financial difficulties

What was Maria Mitchell's attitude towards recognition and accolades?

• She was obsessed with them.

• She disliked them.

• She was indifferent to them.

• She actively sought them.

What was a key aspect of Maria Mitchell's legacy?

• Her dedication to teaching and mentoring women

• Her contributions to physics

• Her political career

• Her artistic works

Until when did Maria Mitchell continue to teach?

• Until she changed careers

• Until her death

• Until she moved abroad

• Until she retired