Henrietta Swan Leavitt

1868–1921 (age 53)

Astronomer

Biography

Henrietta Swan Leavitt was a pioneering astronomer whose precise observations expanded humanity's understanding of the heavens, particularly through her work on variable stars that aided in measuring cosmic distances. Her meticulous research laid groundwork that would shape the future of astrophysics.

Her brilliance and persistence broke new ground for women in science, and her legacy endures in the countless discoveries made possible by her foundational contributions.