Maria Cunitz, Urania Propitia, “Near the Heavens” (1650)

A new exhibit in the lobby of the History of Science Collections opens today:

Near the Heavens: Women in science reach for the stars

At various times, Oklahoma aviator Jerrie Cobb held world records for the longest flight, the highest altitude, and the fastest speed. Two of these world records were previously held by Russian aviators. No wonder that she became one of the group of women known as the “Mercury 13,” who were trained by NASA to become the first astronauts.

Jerrie Cobb is featured in performances this weekend of “They Promised Her the Moon” (April 12-14; see the OU Fine Arts Events calendar for details). The new exhibit in the History of Science Collections pays tribute to this play by Laurel Ollstein, playwright-in-residence in the University of Oklahoma College of Fine Arts.

The exhibit features works by women scientists throughout the centuries who worked in subject areas related to astronomy and other aerospace sciences. The exhibit was prepared by Amy Rodgers, a student pursuing graduate degrees in both the School of Library and Information Studies and the Department of the History of Science.

No appointment is necessary; the exhibit will be available for viewing through the end of April. The exhibit is open during the regular hours of the History of Science Collections, which is located on the 5th floor of Bizzell Library. For accommodations on the basis of disability, call 325-2741.