Margaret Mayall facts for kids

Margaret Walton Mayall (born January 27, 1902 – died December 6, 1995) was an important American astronomer. She spent many years studying the stars and their movements. From 1949 to 1973, she was the director of the American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO). This group helps people learn about and observe stars that change in brightness.

Early Life and Education

Margaret Lyle Walton was born on January 27, 1902, in Iron Hill, Maryland. She was interested in learning from a young age.

She went to college at the University of Delaware and then Swarthmore College. Later, she earned a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Astronomy from Radcliffe College at Harvard University in 1928.

Working with Stars

Margaret Mayall started her career at the Harvard College Observatory in 1924. She worked there as a research assistant and astronomer for many years, until 1954.

During World War II, from 1943 to 1946, she also worked at the Heat Research Laboratory at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This shows her skills were valuable in different scientific fields.

Personal Life

While working in Nantucket, Margaret met Robert Newton Mayall. He was also interested in astronomy and was a member of the American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO). They got married in 1927.

Awards and Recognition

In 1958, Margaret Mayall received a special honor called the Annie J. Cannon Award in Astronomy. This award is given to women who have made important contributions to astronomy.

Later Years

Margaret Mayall passed away on December 6, 1995, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She was 93 years old. Her work helped many people understand more about the changing stars.

See also

In Spanish: Margaret Mayall para niños