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Dr. Thomas credits her creative mind to her parents, who provided "an inquiry-based hands-on learning environment, in the home and community" of their historic, all-Black Cherry Hill community in Baltimore.

Year:1980​

Who: Valerie Thomas EdD

Where: NASA​

What: Valerie L. Thomas, a trailblazing scientist, mathematician, physicist, and inventor, made history with her groundbreaking work at NASA and her invention of the illusion transmitter, which was patented in 1980. This innovative device projects three-dimensional images that appear to exist in real space, a significant leap from traditional flat-screen displays. Her invention, which uses concave mirrors to create optical illusions with three-dimensional attributes, has implications for various fields, including NASA’s space exploration imagery and advanced visual communication systems.

Born on February 1, 1943, in Baltimore, Maryland, Thomas was inspired by her parents to value education and inquiry-based learning. Despite the challenges of attending a high school that did not emphasize advanced science and mathematics for girls, Thomas pursued her passion for technology. She graduated from Morgan State University with a degree in physics, one of only two women in her class to do so, and began her illustrious career at NASA as a data analyst in 1964.

Thomas played a vital role in numerous NASA projects. She led the Landsat project, which enabled satellite-based transmission of Earth images, revolutionizing environmental monitoring and agricultural forecasting. Her expertise also contributed to the Space Physics Analysis Network, a precursor to today’s internet, and significant research on Halley’s Comet and the ozone layer.

Her invention of the illusion transmitter was inspired by a 1976 scientific demonstration using concave mirrors. Thomas envisioned its potential for enhancing video data representation and commercial applications. Unlike traditional holographic techniques, her method utilized parabolic mirrors to produce cost-effective and simpler three-dimensional imagery.

A recipient of numerous awards, including NASA’s GSFC Award of Merit, and a role model for aspiring STEM professionals, Valerie Thomas’s contributions continue to inspire and influence innovations in science and technology. Today, she remains active in education and STEM advocacy, mentoring the next generation of innovators.

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