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.