Hidden Figures vs. NASA

Attribute	Hidden Figures	NASA
Year Founded	1961	1958
Location	Langley Research Center, Virginia	Various locations across the United States
Main Focus	Human computers, space race	Space exploration, aeronautics, space technology
Significant Figures	Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson	Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, Sally Ride
Impact	Contributed to the success of early space missions, highlighted the role of African American women in STEM	Landmark achievements in space exploration, technological advancements

Background

Hidden Figures is a 2016 biographical drama film that tells the story of three African-American women mathematicians who played crucial roles at NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program. NASA, on the other hand, is the United States government agency responsible for the nation's civilian space program and for aeronautics and aerospace research.

Diversity

One of the key attributes of Hidden Figures is its focus on diversity. The film highlights the struggles faced by African-American women in a predominantly white and male environment at NASA. It sheds light on the discrimination and challenges these women had to overcome to make significant contributions to the space program. In contrast, NASA has made efforts in recent years to promote diversity and inclusion within its workforce. The agency has implemented programs and initiatives to attract and retain a diverse talent pool, including women and minorities.

Historical Accuracy

Hidden Figures is based on a true story and strives to accurately portray the experiences of the three women—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—at NASA. The film depicts the challenges they faced and the groundbreaking work they did to help launch astronaut John Glenn into orbit. NASA, as a government agency, has a long history of documenting its achievements and milestones. The agency maintains archives of historical records, photographs, and artifacts that provide a detailed account of its missions and accomplishments.

Innovation

Both Hidden Figures and NASA showcase innovation in different ways. The film highlights the mathematical genius of the three women who were instrumental in calculating trajectories and launch windows for NASA's missions. Their contributions were crucial to the success of the space program. NASA, on the other hand, is known for its groundbreaking technological advancements in space exploration. The agency has developed cutting-edge spacecraft, rovers, and telescopes that have expanded our understanding of the universe.

Collaboration

Collaboration is another attribute shared by Hidden Figures and NASA. The film portrays the teamwork and camaraderie among the women mathematicians as they worked together to solve complex problems and support each other in a challenging environment. Similarly, NASA emphasizes collaboration among its employees, contractors, and international partners to achieve its mission goals. The agency's success in space exploration is a result of the collective efforts of a diverse and talented workforce.

Impact

Hidden Figures has had a significant impact on popular culture and has brought attention to the contributions of African-American women in science and technology. The film has inspired a new generation of young people, especially girls and minorities, to pursue careers in STEM fields. NASA, on the other hand, has had a profound impact on human history through its achievements in space exploration. The agency's missions have expanded our knowledge of the universe and have paved the way for future exploration of other planets and celestial bodies.