November 28

Born in 1640, Willem de Vlamingh was a seasoned Flemish mariner employed by the Dutch East India Company. In 1696 he commanded an expedition in search of the missing ship Ridderschap van Holland and instead charted large portions of Western Australia's coast. He named Rottnest Island after observed rodents and recorded detailed maps of the coastline from the Swan River to Shark Bay. His surveys greatly expanded European knowledge of the region and paved the way for future exploration and settlement. De Vlamingh's meticulous journals and charts remained reference points for navigators long after his death in 1698.

John Lloyd Stephens explored Central America and rediscovered many ancient Maya sites in the 19th century. His detailed accounts and illustrations in 'Incidents of Travel in Central America' captivated the public. He worked with artist Frederick Catherwood to document ruins at Copán, Palenque, and other sites. Their publications inspired further archaeological investigations and popular interest in Mesoamerican cultures. Stephens's blend of scholarly research and adventurous travel set a new standard for archaeological exploration.

Barbara Morgan began her career as a middle and high school teacher in Idaho. In 1985, she was chosen as the backup for Christa McAuliffe in NASA's Teacher in Space Project. After the Challenger disaster, Morgan joined NASA's astronaut corps in 1998 as a mission specialist. She served aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-118 in 2007, conducting experiments and robotics operations. Morgan has logged over 300 hours in space and has lectured widely on STEM education. She has received numerous awards for her contributions to science education and space exploration. Her journey from classroom teacher to astronaut makes her an inspiring figure for educators and students.