The American National Aeronautics and Space Administration NASA is set to name its headquarters in Washington DC after its first black female engineer, MARY JACKSON.

NASA administrator, JIM BRIDENSTINE said JACKSON had helped to break down barriers for African Americans and women in engineering and technology.

The move comes at a time of introspection across the United States about historical injustices suffered by African Americans.

Her daughter, CAROLYN LEWIS, said the family was honoured that NASA was continuing to celebrate MARY JACKSON's legacy.