Mae Jemison is known for what achievement?

• A. First Black woman to travel in space (astronaut, 1992)
• B. First Black woman to win a Nobel Prize
• C. First Black woman elected to the U.S. Senate
• D. First Black woman mayor of a major city

Answer: (D)

Mae Jemison became the first Black woman to travel in space when she flew as a NASA astronaut in 1992 on the Space Shuttle Endeavour (STS-47). This accomplishment is significant because it broke racial and gender barriers in space exploration, showing that Black women could reach the highest levels of science and exploration. Jemison is also a physician and educator who later founded a technology-focused company and has worked to promote science and global health, adding to her impact as a pioneer in STEM. The other options—winning a Nobel Prize, being elected to the U.S. Senate, or serving as mayor of a major city—are not part of her known achievements.