Engineer and Data Analyst: Thomas began her career at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in 1964, where she worked as an engineer and data analyst. She processed and analyzed data from various spacecraft, including the Nimbus satellite, which provided meteorological information.
Project Engineer for Hubble's Faint Object Camera (FOC): Thomas's most notable contribution came when she was selected as the project engineer for the Faint Object Camera (FOC) on the Hubble Space Telescope. The FOC was a cutting-edge instrument designed to capture images of faint and distant objects in space, significantly expanding our understanding of the universe.
Innovations in FOC Design: Under Thomas's leadership, the FOC incorporated innovative features that improved its performance. She was instrumental in developing a special lens made of beryllium, which allowed the camera to capture sharper images. She also contributed to the design of the camera's filters, which allowed it to capture specific wavelengths of light.
Successful FOC Integration: Thomas ensured the successful integration of the FOC with the Hubble Space Telescope, overcoming technical challenges and delays. Her dedication and expertise were crucial in ensuring that the FOC was ready for launch.
Launch of Hubble and FOC Observations: The Hubble Space Telescope was launched in 1990, and the FOC began transmitting images. The images provided unprecedented views of the cosmos, revealing galaxies, stars, and other celestial objects with incredible clarity. The observations made with the FOC revolutionized our understanding of the universe and helped astronomers make groundbreaking discoveries.
NASA Medals and Honors: Thomas's exceptional achievements were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal and the NASA Group Achievement Award. She was also inducted into the Women in Technology International Hall of Fame in 1996.
Advocate for Women in STEM: Throughout her career, Thomas was an advocate for women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. She encouraged young women to pursue careers in STEM and served as a role model for aspiring engineers and scientists.
Valerie Thomas's contributions to NASA's space missions, particularly her work on the Hubble Space Telescope's Faint Object Camera, showcased her exceptional engineering skills and leadership. Her dedication to pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery and her commitment to diversity in the STEM field continue to inspire future generations.