Carolyn Shoemaker is known for finding 32 comets, thats more than anyone else.  Although this may seem insignificant at first her discovers are any thing but insignificant.  Besides discovering comets Carolyn has also found more than 600 asteroids, 40 of which were approaching Earth.  When Carolyn began her search for near-Earth asteroids and comets, she admits that it was considered an eccentric pursuit. The importance of this research, including understanding the potential risks of an impact for the future of life on Earth, is not readily understood by the masses.

"Comets are the wild card when we consider the potential for impact on Earth. We cannot predict the coming of long-period comets well in advance, and it is necessary to learn more if we wish to defend our planet. We need to know a great deal more about their structure. Are they solid bodies emitting gas and dust or are they unconsolidated flying snowballs easily broken apart, or are they all shades in between? Are some asteroids really extinct comets in which the action has been shut off? Could comets provide a source of water for space travelers? Did comets bring life to Earth or the nutrients for life?"  All of these are questions that are important for our search for life in the Universe. 

Carolyn gives hope to all those young girls who dream of being astronomers when she says, become as broad as possible in your astronomical interests and become proficient in the tools you will need.  She believes that if you know your subject and are willing to work hard, you will be accepted.  For more information on Carolyn please visit cannon.sfsu.edu/~gmarcy/cswa/history/shoemaker.html 
www.universetoday.com/html/articles/2001-1211a.html