Virtual Author Talk with Valerie Neal on her book: On A Mission: A History of US Women Astronauts

Virtual Author Talk Series: On A Mission: The history of US Women Astronauts with Smithsonian Curator Emerita Valerie Neal

Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 2:00pm

Join us via the Scotch Plains Public Library on Thursday, April 2 at 2:00pm for an exhilarating journey through the history of US women astronauts with Valerie Neal, emerita curator from the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum and expert on human spaceflight. This discussion is part of the Virtual Author Talk Series, and will be an online event.

Valerie Neal interviewed many of the US women astronauts to bring their experiences to life. She offers a culturally insightful history of their achievements, the challenges they've faced, and their distinctive stories.

Her book On A Mission: The Smithsonian History of US Women Astronauts includes 50 black-and-white photographs to complement the historical account and is an inspiring tribute to unsung women's history.

Register now to take part in this inspirational discussion!

About the Author: Valerie Neal is a space historian and Curator Emerita at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington DC.

For more information or to register, go to www.scotchplainslibrary.org, email library@scotchplainslibrary.org or call (908) 322-5007 x 204. The Scotch Plains Public Library is located at 1927 Bartle Avenue.