The Most Famous NASA Scientist, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the scientist you think is the most famous!
Updated on Apr 27, 2024 07:11
In the arena of space exploration, the minds behind the missions often remain as mysterious as the cosmos itself. Identifying the most recognized NASA scientists helps illuminate the human elements behind extraordinary space achievements. Ranking these scientists not only highlights their contributions but also educates the public on the pivotal roles they play.
By participating in the voting process for the top NASA scientists, users contribute to a collective acknowledgment of scientific endeavors and achievements. Each vote casts a spotlight on individual careers, inspiring both current and future generations to appreciate and maybe pursue the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Who Is the Most Famous NASA Scientist?
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131votes
Unknown authorUnknown author · Public domainHe is considered one of the most famous NASA scientists because he became the first person to walk on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.Neil Armstrong in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Boy Scout
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Aeronautical Engineer
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous pioneer
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous Scout
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous person from Cincinnati
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous pilot
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220votes
NASA · Public domainAlthough he was not a NASA scientist, his work on black holes, relativity, and the universe had a significant impact on NASA's research in these fields.Stephen Hawking in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous disabled athlete
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous cosmologist
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous PhDs
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous Atheist
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous Brit
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous astronomer of all time
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321votes
NASA · Public domainKatherine Johnson
Katherine JohnsonShe was a mathematician who worked for NASA and was one of the key individuals responsible for calculating the trajectory of the Apollo 11 mission.Katherine Johnson was a renowned mathematician and physicist who made significant contributions to the field of space exploration. She was known for her exceptional mathematical abilities and played a crucial role in calculating trajectories for numerous space missions, including the Apollo program. Johnson's work at NASA helped propel the United States into space and she was recognized as one of the most important figures in the success of early space missions.- Field: Mathematics and Physics
- Contributions: Space exploration, trajectory calculations
- Agency: NASA
- Notable Projects: Apollo program
- Achievements: Presidential Medal of Freedom, NASA Langley Research Center's Computational Research Facility named in her honor
Katherine Johnson in other rankings- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous black female scientist
- Position 9 of 10 in Most beautiful scientist
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous African-American scientist
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410votes
NASA · Public domainHe was the second person to walk on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission and has since become an advocate for space exploration and research.Buzz Aldrin in other rankings- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous Air Force pilot
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous Freemason
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59votes
NASA/JPL · Public domainHe was a scientist and author who worked with NASA on numerous projects, including the Viking missions to Mars and the Voyager missions to the outer solar system.Carl Sagan in other rankings- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous astrophysicist
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous cosmologist
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous astronomer of all time
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612votesShe was the first American woman in space and later worked for NASA as a physicist and astronaut trainer.Sally Ride in other rankings
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous female aviator
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710votesHe was a scientist and astronomer who helped discover the first known interstellar object, 'Oumuamua.
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810votes
NASA · Public domainHe was an astronaut who flew on the Apollo 8 and Apollo 13 missions and later served as NASA's deputy director. -
98votesShe was the first Hispanic woman to go to space and later became the director of NASA's Johnson Space Center.Ellen Ochoa in other rankings
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous black female scientist
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109votes
NASA · Public domainHe was a physicist and inventor who is considered the father of modern rocketry and helped pave the way for NASA's space exploration programs.Robert Goddard in other rankings- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous Aeronautical Engineer
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Ranking factors for famous scientist
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Contributions to scientific discoveryThe scientist's contributions to advancing scientific knowledge and understanding, especially within the field of space exploration and aeronautics.
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Impact on space missionsThe scientist's involvement in significant space missions and their contribution to the success and advancement of NASA's goals and objectives.
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Publications and researchThe scientist's publication record, including the number and quality of scientific papers, journals, and books they have authored or co-authored. This indicates their expertise and influence within the scientific community.
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Awards and honorsRecognition received by the scientist, such as prestigious awards, medals, or membership in renowned scientific societies, which highlight their stature and impact in their field.
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Public recognition and media presenceThe scientist's visibility and recognition in the public eye, including appearances in media, interviews, popular books, documentaries, and public speaking engagements. This indicates their ability to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts to the broader public.
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Leadership and institutional influenceLeadership roles held within NASA or other scientific institutions, as well as their influence on shaping policies, strategies, and direction within the organization.
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Longevity and sustained impactThe scientist's overall career trajectory and lasting impact on the scientific community and NASA's mission, including ongoing contributions to research and mentoring future generations of scientists.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most famous NASA scientist. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Scientist is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1583 views
- 138 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Scientist once every 24 hours. The rank of each Scientist is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most famous nasa scientist
When it comes to the field of space exploration, NASA scientists are some of the most influential figures in history. From the early days of the Apollo missions to the current advancements in space technology, these individuals have dedicated their lives to pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and exploration.
But who is the most famous NASA scientist of all time? That's a question that has sparked much debate and discussion among space enthusiasts and casual observers alike. Some might say it's Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon. Others might argue for Carl Sagan, the renowned astronomer and science communicator who played a key role in the Voyager missions.
However, when it comes down to it, there's one name that stands out above the rest: Dr. Stephen Hawking. While Hawking may not have worked directly for NASA, his groundbreaking work in theoretical physics and cosmology has had a profound impact on our understanding of the universe and the role of space exploration in our lives.
From his groundbreaking theories on black holes and the origins of the universe to his popular science books and countless public appearances, Hawking has become one of the most recognizable figures in science and a true icon of space exploration. Whether you're a diehard space enthusiast or simply curious about the mysteries of the cosmos, there's no denying the impact that Dr. Stephen Hawking has had on our understanding of the universe and our place within it.
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