Biography
About Mae Jemison
Mae Jemison is an American physician and former NASA astronaut, and she holds the distinction of being the first black woman in space. Born in Decatur, Alabama, United States, she grew up in Chicago and pursued a career in medicine before joining the astronaut corps. Her flight aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992 made her a trailblazer for women and people of color in STEM fields. Mae's achievements extend beyond spaceflight; she has been a strong advocate for science education and has founded a technology company. She also appeared in a Star Trek episode, reflecting her influence on popular culture. Her groundbreaking journey continues to inspire many. She is American and Black.
- BirthplaceDecatur, Alabama, United States
- EthnicityBlack
Frequently asked
What did Mae Jemison do before becoming an astronaut?
Mae Jemison was a physician before joining NASA, working in medicine and public health, which included time as a Peace Corps medical officer.
How did Mae Jemison's spaceflight impact her public role?
Her 1992 flight made her famous as the first Black woman in space, leading to her advocacy for science education and appearances in popular culture, such as on Star Trek.
Did you know
- Mae Jemison was the first Black woman to travel in space, flying on the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992.
- She is a physician and also founded a company that develops technology for everyday life.
- She appeared as an actress on an episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation.
Help improve this profile
Spot something wrong or missing? Fix a detail, add a link, or share a fact. Every submission is reviewed before it goes live.
Are you Mae Jemison?

