Margaret Hamilton ’58, whose code helped reach the moon, dies at 90

Earlham College celebrates the remarkable life and legacy of Margaret Hamilton ’58, the pioneering computer scientist and systems engineer whose work helped make the Apollo moon landings possible. Hamilton died Sept. 30 at age 90.  

Hamilton’s connection to Earlham was celebrated throughout her remarkable life. In 2009, the College presented her with its Outstanding Alumni Award (pictured below) in recognition of her groundbreaking contributions to computing and space exploration. In May 2025, Earlham awarded Hamilton an honorary Doctor of Science degree (honoris causa) recognizing her as a “path-breaker in the male-dominated realm of scientific application.”

“Earlham has a longstanding tradition of academic excellence, and Margaret Hamilton’s fundamental contributions exemplify that proud legacy,” said President Paul Sniegowski in the College’s announcement about the honorary degree. “She has consistently embodied the curiosity and tenacity of an Earlhamite.”

Hamilton graduated from Earlham in 1958 with a degree in mathematics and a minor in philosophy. She went on to become a trailblazer in computing, joining the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Instrumentation Laboratory and ultimately leading the team responsible for developing the in-flight software for NASA’s Apollo missions. 

Her software played a critical role in the Apollo missions, including Apollo 11’s historic landing on the moon. Hamilton pioneered approaches to software reliability and coined the term “software engineering,” helping establish and legitimize a field that would become fundamental to modern technology. 

Hamilton later founded two companies, including Hamilton Technologies, Inc., and continued her pioneering work in software development. Her many honors included NASA’s Exceptional Space Act Award and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. She also was featured in LEGO’s Women of NASA set. 

Hamilton’s death has been reported by numerous national and international outlets. The New York Times obituary offers a detailed account of her life and career, while MIT News’ remembrance of Hamilton explores her pioneering work at MIT and her lasting influence on software engineering. 
 

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About Earlham College 

Earlham College and Earlham School of Religion foster a collaborative learning community that inspires and motivates students with opportunities and experiences so they can become catalysts for good in a changing world. Located in Richmond, Indiana, Earlham is one of U.S. News & World Report’s Top 100 national liberal arts colleges and offers one of the top 20 classroom experiences in the nation, according to the Princeton Review.