Poppy Northcutt

Frances "Poppy" Northcutt is an American engineer and attorney who began her career as a computer operator and was later a member of the technical staff of NASA's Apollo program during the Space Race. During the Apollo 8 mission she became the first female engineer to work in NASA's Mission Control. Later in her career, Northcutt became an attorney specializing in women's rights. In the early 1970s, she served on the national board of directors of the National Organization for Women.

American Experience · S31, E3

Chasing the Moon: A Place Beyond the Sky

Tracking the early years of the space race, beginning in 1957, as the U.S. struggles to catch up with the Soviet Union.
American Experience · S31, E4

Chasing the Moon: Earthrise

Exploring four dangerous years in the history of the space race, from 1964-1968, including the Apollo 1 and Apollo 8 missions.
American Experience · S31, E5

Chasing the Moon: Magnificent Desolation

Activist Debo recalls her efforts to publicize injustices against Oklahoma Indians.

Poppy Northcutt

Guest Appearances