African Americans in Astronomy and Astrophysics

The purpose of this lesson is for students to explore the history of astronomy in the United States and the African-American scientists that are associated with this discipline.  This lesson introduces students to African Americans involved in astronomy and astrophysics from the 1700s when astronomy was used as a practical tool to the twentieth century space race.  In the first part, students will learn about Benjamin Banneker – the eighteenth century African American astronomer.  They will use his 1793 almanac and read a letter Banneker wrote to Thomas Jefferson regarding racial equality.  In the second part, students will learn about George Carruthers, a contemporary African American astrophysicist whose inventions contributed to the study of space.  Optionally, students will choose to study other African American astronomers and astrophysicists from the twentieth century.