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Top 20 Interesting Facts about Mae C. Jemison

*Originally published by Norah M in April 2022 and Updated by Ronny in January 2024

Mae Carol Jemison an American engineer and former NASA astronaut became the first black woman to travel out of space. Jemison has always reached for the stars, she has written several books and appeared on many television programs including Star Trek. Space travel was her aspiration from an early age, she was inspired by an African American actress Nichelle Nicholas who played a lieutenant in the Star Trek television show. She was the youngest to attend Stanford University at the age of sixteen and earned a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering and African American studies.

Jemison has received diverse honors and awards and honorary degrees. She served on the advisory committee of the American Express Geography competition. Jemison founded the Dorothy Jemison Foundation for Excellence in honor of her mother, here students collaborate to solve global challenges and problems through experienced learning. She now acts as a science ambassador and speaks about the need for democratic access to technology for the future of humanity. Mae Jemison was born in Decatur Alabama, she is the youngest child of Charlie Jemison and Dorothy Jemison.

1. Mae Jemison had a dream to be an astronaut

We all have dreams and we all want to achieve our dreams sometimes we do not get to achieve our dreams but we make it to our goals. Jemison had a dream to be an astronaut and she did all it took to achieve her dream and goal. Mae is the youngest of three children born in Decatur Alabama her mother was an Elementary school teacher and her father was a maintenance supervisor. After she was born her family moved to Chicago. At a young age, Jemison knew she wanted to study science, whenever she would watch Apollo airings on TV, and was often worried about why there were no female astronauts.

She was inspired by Nichelle Nichols an actress who played Lieutenant Uhura on the Star Trek television show. She graduated from Morgan Park High School at the age of sixteen, she attended Stanford University in Chemical Engineering in California. As the only African American student in her class, Jemison experienced racial discrimination, she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in African and African-American studies. She attended Cornell Medical School with a doctorate in Medicine and did her residency at the Los Angeles County Medical Center. Jemison is fluent in Russian, Japanese, and Swahili, in 1983 she joined the Peace Corps and served as a medical officer in Africa.

2. Jemison opened a private practice as a doctor

Mae Jemison was motivated to make sure that not only did she achieve her dreams but achieved her goals. She opened a private practice as a doctor, and Jemison decided to apply to the astronaut program at NASA, after a space shuttle exploded she applied again in 1987 and was one of the 15 people to join. Mae trained with NASA and worked on projects at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, she received her first mission in 1989 and joined the STS 47 crew as a mission specialist.

Jemison and six other astronauts went into space on the space shuttle Endeavor. Despite all of her achievements and the fact she served as an astronaut, she still confronts institutionalized prejudice similar to what she experienced as a student in Chicago. When she returned from Space Jemison visited an elementary school. During her time at NASA Jemison founded both the Jemison Group and Bio sentient corporation.

3. First African American Woman Astronaut

NASA astronaut Mae Jemison by Unknown Arthur/

The greatest achievement, well we all have those achievements we put close to our hearts and we celebrate every time we remember excelling in school, having a baby, or getting healed from cancer. Jemison became the first African American woman to be admitted into the NASA astronaut training program, the job made her responsible for conducting crew-related scientific experiments on the space shuttle. She and six others traveled to space during her eight days in space she conducted experiments on weightlessness and motion sickness on the crew and herself, frog fertilization in space, and bone loss during spaceflight.

Astronauts often bring small personal mementos, Jemison chose to bring a flag from the organization African Union, an Alpha  Kappa Alpha Sorority banner, and a proclamation from the Chicago public school system and the DuSable Museum of African American History. After visiting space, she visited an elementary school where the principal told her that she wanted to bring a male teacher to teach the children about space since men are knowledgeable. This incident inspired a diversity of women to take part in space education and be part of the astronaut family.

4. She received several distinctions

Award by Giorgio Trovato/

Jemison received several distinctions, including several honorary doctorates, the Essence Science and Technology Award, the Ebony black achievement award, and a Montgomery Fellowship from Dartmouth College. She was named Gamma Sigma Gamma Woman of the Year in 1990.

A public school was named after her to honor her the Mae C. Jemison Academy in Detroit Michigan. Jemison has been a member of several prominent organizations the American Medical Association, the American Chemical Society, and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

She served on the board of directors of the World Sickle Cell Foundation, Jemison served as the advisory committee member of the American Express Geography Competition and an honorary board member of the Center for the Prevention of childhood malnutrition.

5. Science Ambassador

Today Jemison acts as a science ambassador and speaks about the need to democratize access to technology for the future of humanity. She is quoted saying 鈥淚 think it is so vitally important that all people in this world are involved in the process of discovery鈥�. Mae Jemison made sure that science and technology are accessible to all, she has worked hard to empower young women to engage with STEM and pursue careers in these areas.

This includes acting as Bayer Corporation’s U.S. national science literacy ambassador and chairing the U.S. government to address the issues of inequality in science. Her mission as she is quoted saying 鈥淭o change the image of who does science, it’s not only important for folks who want to go into science but for folks who fund science

6. She had a Fear of heights

Sharon McDougle and Mae Jemison by Carcai/

Well, even our icons and role models fear one thing or the other, I know am afraid of death and small insects, and despite being the first African American to go to space Mae Jemison had a fear of heights.

This is one of the most unexpected reasons you would hear from an astronaut or pilot, but we all have to work through our fears to be the world’s greatest achievers. Her astronaut training helped her overcome her fears, she used her drive and passion to push through and she learned to stay balanced and get over her fear.

Overcoming her fear and pushing through her challenges made her brave and led her to become the first black woman in space. Jemison followed the footsteps of Soviet cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova the first woman in space.

7. She did not shy off from the Camera

We all have role models we look up to, well during Mae Jemison鈥檚 time she had a few black female astronauts to look up to, but this did not mean she did not have a role model she was inspired by actress Nichelle Nichols who acted as a lieutenant in star trek. Interestingly Jemison loved the television show Star Trek, her favorite character on the show was Lieutenant Uhura the shuttle鈥檚 communication officer. When Actor LeVar Burton Jr. found out that Jemison was a fan of the television show he invited her to appear in an episode and this is how Mae Jemison appeared in Star Trek the Next Generation in the episode Second Chances, she became the first real astronaut to appear on the show.

8. Dorothy Jemison Foundation

Jemison founded the Dorothy Jemison Foundation of Excellence to honor her mother, the non-profit organization focuses on creating science modules and other teaching materials.

The foundation hosts The Earth We Share, it is an international space camp for young students aged 12 to 16 years. It was first launched in 1994, and it targets science literacy to students all over the world.

Today Jemison is leading a 100-year starship project through the United States Defense Advanced Research Project Agency DARPA, the project makes sure human space travel to another star is possible in the next 100 years.

9.Mae Jemison Publication

Publication By Tamara Gak/

Jemison published a memoir entitled Find Where the Wing Goes in 2001, she tells a story of her childhood and her experience at Stanford. In the book, she also shares what her life was like while in the Peace Corps and working for NASA.

Mae also wrote the book series with co-author Dana Meachen Rau named it a true book. The book is an educational book series for children, There are four books in the series and each book comprises true or false questions and challenges that are resolved at the end.

Jemison was inducted into the International Space Hall of Fame, the National Women鈥檚 Hall of Fame, and the National Medical Association Hall of Fame. She is also in the Texas Science Hall of Fame.

10 Mae Jemison Mini Lego

Lego by Daniel K. Cheung/

Well, do you have a LEGO version of yourself, only a few people can brag they have a LEGO version of themselves? In 2017 LEGO released a woman on NASA it related to female astronauts and scientists Margaret Hamilton, Sally Ride, Mae Jemison, and Nancy Grace Roman, the set included three removal rocket stages, a telescope, and a computer.

The LEGO did not only honor the women of NASA but also included a booklet about amazing black women. This was a good way to introduce these astonishing ladies to the younger audience and a perfect way for people to collect their idol merchandise.

11. Holds degrees in chemical engineering and medicine

Mae C. Jemison holds degrees in both chemical engineering and medicine, showcasing her multidisciplinary expertise. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Stanford University, demonstrating her proficiency in the physical sciences and engineering.

Subsequently, she pursued a Doctor of Medicine degree from Cornell University. Jemison’s educational background reflects her commitment to a diverse skill set, combining engineering principles with medical knowledge.

This unique combination of qualifications played a pivotal role in her groundbreaking career as an astronaut, physician, and advocate for the advancement of science and technology.

12. Founded the Jemison Group to advance technology and science

, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Mae C. Jemison founded the Jemison Group, an organization dedicated to advancing technology and science. As a visionary leader, she established this venture to promote innovation, foster scientific research, and encourage technological advancements.

The Jemison Group focuses on projects and initiatives that contribute to the progression of science and technology, aiming to inspire and empower individuals to explore new frontiers in these fields.

Through this initiative, Jemison continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of innovation while emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the pursuit of scientific excellence.

13. Astronaut, physician, engineer, entrepreneur, and public speaker

Mae C. Jemison is a polymath, distinguishing herself as an astronaut, physician, engineer, entrepreneur, and public speaker. As the first African American woman in space, she embarked on a historic journey aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992.

Jemison’s diverse skill set is evident in her educational background, holding degrees in chemical engineering and medicine. Beyond her pioneering space exploration, she has contributed to medical research, worked as a general practitioner, and founded the Jemison Group to advance technology and science.

An accomplished entrepreneur, she remains an influential public speaker, advocating for STEM education and promoting diversity in science and space exploration. Jemison’s multifaceted career exemplifies her dedication to breaking barriers and inspiring future generations across various disciplines.

14. Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1993

, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Mae C. Jemison’s significant contributions to science and space exploration were recognized with the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1993.

Awarded by President Bill Clinton, this honor celebrated Jemison’s groundbreaking achievements as the first African American woman in space and her impactful work in promoting diversity and excellence in STEM fields.

The medal acknowledged her pioneering spirit, commitment to exploration, and dedication to advancing both scientific knowledge and opportunities for underrepresented communities.

Jemison’s reception of the Presidential Medal of Freedom stands as a testament to her enduring legacy as a trailblazer and advocate for progress in the realms of space and science.

15. Inspired by African American actress Nichelle Nichols and astronaut Sally Ride

Mae C. Jemison drew inspiration from trailblazers in different realms鈥擜frican American actress Nichelle Nichols and astronaut Sally Ride. Nichols, renowned for her role as Lt. Uhura in Star Trek, symbolized representation in entertainment.

Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, exemplified breaking gender barriers in STEM. Jemison’s admiration for these pioneers fueled her aspirations.

She later mirrored their achievements by becoming the first African American woman to venture into space, a testament to the transformative impact of representation and the power of role models in shaping diverse, groundbreaking careers in both the arts and sciences.

16. Inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 1993

, , via Wikimedia Commons

Mae C. Jemison’s remarkable achievements led to her induction into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 1993.

This prestigious recognition celebrated her groundbreaking journey as the first African American woman in space and her significant contributions to science and technology.

Jemison’s pioneering spirit, commitment to excellence, and advocacy for diversity in STEM fields solidified her place among the nation’s most influential women. Induction into the Hall of Fame underscored her enduring impact on space exploration and her role as an inspirational figure, breaking barriers for women and minorities in the field of science.

17. Encourages girls and minorities to pursue careers in STEM fields

Mae C. Jemison is a passionate advocate for diversity in STEM, actively encouraging girls and minorities to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Recognizing the transformative power of representation, Jemison emphasizes the importance of breaking gender and racial barriers in traditionally underrepresented fields.

Through her speeches, engagements, and educational initiatives, she inspires the next generation to overcome challenges, fostering inclusivity and empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds to contribute to and excel in STEM disciplines, ensuring a more equitable and innovative future for all.

18. Holds multiple honorary degrees from various institutions

, No restrictions, via Wikimedia Commons

Mae C. Jemison is adorned with multiple honorary degrees from diverse institutions, recognizing her exceptional contributions to science, space exploration, and education.

These degrees underscore her profound impact on various fields and symbolize the admiration and respect she commands across academia. Institutions worldwide have bestowed these honors upon Jemison, acknowledging her pioneering achievements as the first African American woman in space and her unwavering dedication to advancing knowledge and promoting diversity.

These honorary degrees stand as a testament to Jemison’s enduring influence and her role as an inspirational figure shaping the future of STEM and beyond.

19. Served on the board of directors for several organizations

Mae C. Jemison’s leadership extends to multiple organizations where she has served on the board of directors. Leveraging her expertise in medicine, engineering, and space exploration, Jemison plays a pivotal role in guiding strategic decisions and initiatives.

Her commitment to diverse sectors reflects a dedication to advancing fields such as healthcare, technology, and education. Through her board service, Jemison contributes to shaping organizational direction and policies, applying her wealth of experience to foster innovation and excellence.

Her involvement underscores a broader commitment to impact and influence across various industries, reinforcing the significance of her leadership in both the scientific and corporate realms.

20. Demonstrates the intersection of arts and sciences, emphasizing holistic education

Mae C. Jemison is a compelling example of the intersection between arts and sciences, championing holistic education. Beyond her accomplishments as an astronaut and physician, Jemison is an accomplished dancer and advocate for the integration of creativity into scientific pursuits.

She believes in fostering a well-rounded education that combines the analytical thinking of sciences with the creative expression found in the arts. Jemison’s own experiences showcase how a multidisciplinary approach enhances problem-solving and innovation.

By emphasizing the synergy between these disciplines, she encourages a more comprehensive educational model that nurtures both critical thinking and creative exploration.