Born: August 1, 1818, Nantucket, Massachusetts, U.S.
Died: June 28, 1889, Lynn, Mass.
Maria Mitchell was an American astronomer, born in Nantucket, Massachusetts, and privately educated. Her father maintained a small observatory, where she began her studies in astronomy. In October 1847, she discovered a telescopic comet, an accomplishment that brought her international recognition. The following year, she became the first woman elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. She became professor of astronomy at Vassar College in 1865 and held that position until 1888, when she retired.
