Answer:
Those who helped influence and inspire Eileen Collins -to become an astronaut- when she was a young girl were the Mercury astronauts.
Step-by-step explanation:
As the article says - published in 2003 - Eileen Collins became the first woman to become a mission commander at NASA.
Born in Elmira, NY on 11/19/1956, she was chosen for an astronaut training program at NASA when she was just one month in the Air Force. He has a bachelor's degree in mathematics-economics and a master's degree in space systems management.
In her own words -during the interview- she explains that the Mercury mission astronauts inspired her when she was very young, despite knowing that there were no female astronauts.
When she was in high school, many opportunities were offered to women, including being part of the Air Force.
He says that although she is the first female commander at NASA, she hopes not to be the last.
A source of inspiration for all young Americans.