In honor of the first female astronomer, the observatory in Nantucket was named the Maria Mitchell Observatory. Additionally, the Maria Mitchell Association, also in Nantucket; a World War II ship, the SS Maria Mitchell; and a crater on the moon (Mitchells Crater) were named after her.

What was named after Maria Mitchell?

On October 1, 1847, at age 29, Maria Mitchell discovered the comet that would be named Miss Mitchells Comet, using a two-inch telescope.

Was Maria Mitchell the first woman astronomer?

05, Archives & Special Coll., Vassar College Lib. She was the first woman in the United States to become a professional astronomer, and a dauntless champion of science education for women. Maria Mitchell, whose bicentenary is celebrated this August, was a scientific revolutionary.

What is Maria Mitchells full name?

Maria Mitchell (/məˈraɪə/; August 1, 1818 – June 28, 1889) was an American astronomer, librarian, naturalist, and educator. In 1847, she discovered a comet named 1847 VI (modern designation C/1847 T1) that was later known as “Miss Mitchells Comet” in her honor.

How many sisters did Maria Mitchell have?

She had nine brothers and sisters. Her parents, William Mitchell and Lydia Coleman Mitchell, were Quakers.

Why did Maria have an observatory named after her?

In ill health, she retired from teaching at Vassar in 1888, and died on June 28, 1889. She is buried with family members at Prospect Hill Cemetery in Nantucket. In honor of the first female astronomer, the observatory in Nantucket was named the Maria Mitchell Observatory.