Valerie Thomas was one of only two women to graduate with a degree in physics from Morgan State University in 1964. After graduation, Thomas joined NASA as a data analyst and mathematician. At NASA, she managed the development of the image processing system for Landsat, the first satellite to send multispectral images of the Earth from space. Thomas is best known for inventing the illusion transmitter, which uses concave mirrors to create the appearance of three-dimensional images. This technology was adopted by NASA, and has been used in applications including surgery and video technology. During her career at NASA, she helped to develop computer program designs supporting research on Halley’s Comet, the ozone layer, and satellite technology. A strong advocate for science education, she has worked to expand opportunities in STEM for women and underrepresented students.
