Women in Astronomy

Mini Series

Whilst science is not my strong point, I want to share the stories of some women who have worked in astronomy. I hope that this inspires some girls and women to aim for the stars. Pun intended.

Beth Brown – 4th February 1969 – 5th October 2008.

Beth Brown was a brilliant astronomer who worked hard to help women and minorities follow their dreams of becoming astrophysicists. She was the assistant director for science communications and higher education at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.

When she was a child, Beth loved “Star Trek,” astronomy, and science fiction. She was the top student in her high school and graduated with the highest honors from Howard University with a degree in astrophysics. Beth made history by becoming the first African-American woman to study astronomy at the University of Michigan, where she earned her Ph.D. in 1998. She inspired many people with her passion for space and science.

Feminism isn’t about hating men

Feminism isn’t about men at all.

Forget what you might have seen in movies – feminism isn’t some exclusive club for women who hate men. It’s a global movement fighting for something way bigger: equality and choice for women and girls everywhere.  This means making sure they have access to the basics, like education, healthcare, safety, and the power to make their own decisions about their lives.

Millions of girls worldwide are shut out of school, simply because they’re girls. Education is the key to unlocking their potential. When girls are educated, they can make informed decisions, have a say in their communities, and decide what they want out of life.

Feminism also fights for equal rights, like getting paid the same as men for doing the same work. It’s crazy to think this is still an issue, but around the world, women face limitations on what they can own, how much they can earn, and even if they can vote.

Healthcare access for women and girls is a major problem in many places. This includes things like care during pregnancy, birth control, and mental health services. Without these basics, women can’t reach their full potential, and it holds back entire communities. Not to mention, it leads to women losing their lives.

Safety is another huge piece of the puzzle. Violence against women and girls is a global issue, from domestic abuse to sexual assault. Feminism is working to create a world where women feel safe at home, on the streets, and everywhere in between.

Feminism isn’t about dictating what choices women make. It’s about giving them the freedom to choose. Whether it’s pursuing a career, becoming a stay-at-home mom, choosing their own clothes, or having control over their own bodies, women deserve the right to make their own choices without judgment or limitations.

Feminism is still important today because despite progress, the fight for equality isn’t over. The gender gap persists in many areas, and new challenges arise. From online harassment to restrictive laws on reproductive rights, women and girls still face limitations on their opportunities and safety.

Feminism is a movement that continues to evolve, addressing these ongoing issues and advocating for a world where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive and make their own choices.

Photo ID needed to vote in the UK General Election

The deadline to apply for free voter ID to vote in the Parliamentary general election on Thursday 4 July is 5pm on Wednesday 26 June.

Apply for a postal vote in the UK General Election

Register for a postal vote in the UK General Election. Deadline to register is 19th June. Best get a hurry on!
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