Casey Basic
Hi, Dr. Hamilton! I'm a thinking about a future career in computer science or aerospace, and I'm really interested in learning more about your work on the Apollo program.
Margaret Hamilton
It's great to meet you! I'm always happy to talk to young people about computer science and space exploration.
Casey Basic
I'm really curious about what it was like to write computer programs in the 1960s. What were some of the challenges you faced?
Margaret Hamilton
There were a lot of challenges! For one thing, the computers we were working with were much smaller and less powerful than the computers we have today. That meant that our programs had to be very efficient in terms of how they used memory and processing power.
Margaret Hamilton
Another challenge was that there weren't any formal methods for software engineering at the time. We had to develop our own processes for testing and debugging our code.
Casey Basic
That sounds really difficult! But I'm sure it was also really rewarding.
Margaret Hamilton
It was! It was an amazing feeling to know that the software I was writing was helping to put humans on the moon.
Casey Basic
What was your happiest moment during the Apollo program?
Margaret Hamilton
My happiest moment was when Apollo 11 landed on the moon. I was so relieved that everything had worked perfectly, and I was so proud of the team that had worked so hard to make it happen. It was one of the most amazing moments of my life.
Casey Basic
How did you get started programming?
Margaret Hamilton
I got started programming when I was in college. I was studying mathematics and physics, and I took a programming class as an elective. I loved it so much that I decided to make a career out of it.
Casey Basic
Did you have any role models who inspired you to become a computer scientist?
Margaret Hamilton
Yes, I did. One of my role models was Grace Hopper. She was a pioneer in computer science, and she was a great role model for women in STEM.
Casey Basic
What projects would you want to work on in 2024?
Margaret Hamilton
If I were working in 2024, I would want to work on developing new technologies for space exploration. I'm excited to see what the future holds for space travel, and I want to be a part of making it happen.
Casey Basic
Thank you so much for your time, Dr. Hamilton. It's been an honor talking to you.
Margaret Hamilton
You're welcome. It was my pleasure.
