Importance Score: 72 / 100 🔴
NASA Removes Graphic Novel Series Featuring First Woman Astronaut
In a move that has sparked discussion, NASA has reportedly removed its graphic novel series, “First Woman,” from its primary website. This series, launched in 2021, centered on Commander Callie Rodriguez, a fictional astronaut who achieves the historic milestone of becoming the first woman to walk on the moon, alongside a diverse crew. The removal of this content aligns with the Trump Administration’s broader actions focused on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) initiatives, raising questions about the future of representation in space exploration narratives.
Vanishing Act: “First Woman” Graphic Novels Disappear
It has been observed that not just one, but two graphic novels from the “First Woman” series have been abruptly taken down from the space agency’s official digital platforms.
About the “First Woman” Series
The series included “First Woman: NASA’s Promise for Humanity,” released in 2021, and “First Woman: Expanding Our Universe,” published in 2023. Both installments revolved around Commander Callie Rodriguez and her pioneering ventures as the first woman to set foot on the lunar surface. The latter novel highlighted a team of astronauts with varied racial backgrounds undertaking an exciting mission to the moon. Previously accessible without charge on NASA’s official government website, these graphic novels were authored by Brad Gann and Steven List, with illustrations by Brent Donoho and Kaitlin Reid.
Series Aimed to Inspire “Artemis Generation”
NASA designed the “First Woman” series to cultivate interest in space exploration among young people, identified as the “Artemis Generation.” This initiative was linked to the agency’s Artemis program, which aims to land the first woman and the first person of color on the moon.
NASA Administrator’s Past Endorsement
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson emphasized the importance of inclusivity in 2023 regarding the series, which has now been withdrawn. “Diversity is central to NASA’s missions and fuels our ongoing efforts to push the boundaries of what we can achieve,” Nelson stated. “‘First Woman’ embodies the extensive history of numerous women who have broken barriers and continue to guide NASA towards new frontiers. A significant part of NASA’s mission is to inspire future explorers, ensuring that every member of the Artemis Generation feels represented in our endeavors. Callie’s narrative serves as a reminder of our commitment to achieving unprecedented milestones – landing the first woman on the moon and inspiring the global community.”
Broader Changes within NASA
This removal is part of a larger trend. Reports indicate NASA has been systematically removing language specifically referencing the landing of the first person of color and the first woman on the moon from its Artemis program materials. In accordance with directives from the Trump administration, the agency has also eliminated mentions of DEIA, environmental justice concerns, women in leadership roles, and Indigenous peoples from its publicly accessible web content. These actions followed NASA’s decision to dissolve its Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity.
Accessing the Removed Content
Despite its removal from NASA’s official platforms, Commander Callie’s story is not entirely lost. The graphic novels remain accessible through the Internet Archive, a digital library. Issues can still be accessed via the Wayback Machine here.