Black Excellence: Valerie Thomas - Inventor of Early 3D Technology.
With the advancement of technology, we’ve been able to expand and open up to limitless capabilities. Little did we know, there are many black innovators that have contributed in the advancement of technology that we experience today. One innovator that comes to mind is Valerie L. Thomas, an African-American scientist whom worked for NASA and is an inventor of the illusion transmitter. If you’ve been to the movies lately, you’ve probably enjoyed watching a high action film using 3-D imaging. You can most certainly thank Valerie L. Thomas for that experience. During her time at the aeronautics institute, Valerie worked on several high profiled projects and earned numerous accolades for her contributions.
In 1964, Valerie L. Thomas began her career with NASA as a data analyst. Up until 1970, she developed real-time computer data systems to support satellite operations control centers. She also oversaw the creation of the Landsat program and went on to become an international expert on Landsat data products. What set her apart was her curiosity with illusions.
Valerie was so inspired by a scientific exhibition that she started experimenting with flat and concave mirrors. While the former would have a reflection on a certain object that would seem to be behind the glass, the latter would have a reflection that would actually be in front of the glass, producing a three-dimensional illusion. This is what formed the basis of early 3D technology by which Valerie named it as an illusion transmitter. In 1980 she obtained the patent for this device that NASA continues to use till this day. More specifically, NASA uses her technology to produce rapid and accurate images on missions to the Moon, Mars, and other terrestrial destinations for a safe descent and landing.
Although she retired from NASA in 1995, Valerie’s achievements and her continuous commitment in mentoring young black engineers and scientists have been widely recognized by the community. She is truly a trailblazer and role model for many upcoming students interested in the STEM fields!
We honor and salute you Valerie L. Thomas!
