Born: 1923 (National Park, New Jersey)
Biography:
Eleanor Vadala (born September 8, 1923) is an American chemist, materials engineer, and balloonist. She made significant contributions to the field of aviation materials research and played a crucial role in the development of synthetic materials for use in aircraft. Vadala’s pioneering work not only influenced the aviation industry but also paved the way for women in STEM fields.
Eleanor Vadala was born on September 8, 1923, in National Park, New Jersey. She attended schools in Atlantic City and Cardiff in New Jersey, as well as Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. From an early age, Vadala showed a passion for science and technology. After graduating from high school, she took a job at Kellett Aircraft Company, where she gained firsthand experience in making aircraft parts. This experience sparked her interest in aviation and materials engineering.
After World War II, Vadala decided to pursue higher education and enrolled at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. In 1947, she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in nutrition and a minor in chemistry. Armed with her newfound knowledge, Vadala began her career at the Franklin Institute, where she worked as a lecturer on science and technology. Despite her love for the work, Vadala realized that it did not pay well. However, she continued to volunteer at the Franklin Institute for another ten years while she pursued other opportunities.
In 1957, Vadala joined the Moon Watch Team at the Franklin Institute and helped record the orbit of Russia’s Sputnik satellite. Her expertise and dedication caught the attention of her peers, and she quickly became involved in various scientific organizations. Vadala’s passion for astronomy led her to build her own 6-inch telescope and join the Rittenhouse Astronomy Society. She eventually served as Treasurer, Secretary, and President of the organization, playing a vital role in reviving its activities.
Vadala’s career took a significant turn when she joined the Naval Air Development department, where she focused on aviation materials research. She held positions at the Naval Air Material Center at the Philadelphia Naval Yard and the Naval Air Development Center in Warminster, Pennsylvania. During her time in these positions, Vadala conducted extensive studies on synthetic laminated materials for use in aircraft construction.
Her expertise in materials testing and laboratory experiments led to her appointment as the director of research and development at the Naval Air Development Center. In this role, Vadala played a crucial role in developing and testing lightweight synthetic materials for aircraft components. Her work contributed to the advancement of aviation technology and improved the safety and performance of aircraft.
Apart from her groundbreaking work in aviation materials research, Vadala also made a significant impact in the field of hot air ballooning. She became the third woman in the United States to be FAA-certified as a balloon pilot. As a member of the Balloon Club of America, Vadala participated in 66 balloon flights, including 47 flights in gas balloons and 19 flights in hot air balloons. She also represented the United States in 13 international balloon flights hosted by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) between 1959 and 1963.
Eleanor Vadala’s contributions to the field of aviation materials research and her achievements as a balloonist earned her recognition and respect within the scientific and aviation communities. On July 28, 2019, she was inducted into the Balloon Federation of America Hall of Fame at the National Balloon Museum in Indianola, Iowa. Vadala’s passion for science, her determination to break gender barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields, and her groundbreaking work have left a lasting impact on women in STEM and aviation.
Awards:
– Inducted into the Balloon Federation of America Hall of Fame (2019)