Katherine Johnson, the NASA mathematician featured in Hidden Figures, died Monday at 101 years old. 

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine announced the news on Twitter.

"Our @NASA family is sad to learn the news that Katherine Johnson passed away this morning at 101 years old," he wrote. "She was an American hero and her pioneering legacy will never be forgotten."

"The NASA family will never forget Katherine Johnson's courage and the milestones we could not have reached without her. Her story and her grace continue to inspire the world," Bridenstine added.

According to NASA's statement, Johnson "made huge strides that also opened doors for women and people of color in the universal quest to explore space."

The Presidential Medal of Freedom winner is remembered for her work in helping put people on the moon and for making it possible for astronauts to take the first steps in space.

 "At NASA we will never forget her courage and leadership and the milestones we could not have reached without her," Bridenstine said. "We will continue building on her legacy and work tirelessly to increase opportunities for everyone who has something to contribute toward the ongoing work of raising the bar of human potential." 

Johnson's career was part of the inspiration for the Oscar-nominated 2016 film Hidden Figures where she was played by Taraji P. Henson. 

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