Dr. Jill Tarter is the Director of the Center for SETI Research, the program that searches the sky for alien life using radio frequencies. Tarter is one of the most awarded scientists working in the field of astronomy today and notable for her alleged influence in Carl Sagan’s “Contact” novel.

Throughout the course of history, women in astronomy have had a profound effect on space science. Today, women hold some of the most prominent positions in the entire industry. Along with individuals, a number of organizations have been developed to focus on supporting female scientists.