Overview

Jane Briggs Hart (October 21, 1921 – June 5, 2015) was an American aviator known for a varied life in flight, sailing and public service. She was the widow of Senator Philip A. Hart and was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. Hart combined technical skill with high-profile public involvement, becoming a recognizable figure in mid‑20th century efforts to broaden opportunities for women in aviation and space-related fields.

Aviation and the Mercury 13

During the 1960s Hart took part in a privately organized program of physical and psychological screenings for women pilots that later became known as the Mercury 13. These tests used procedures similar to those developed by NASA for early astronaut selection. Although the women who passed those examinations were not selected to fly in NASA missions, their participation highlighted questions about gender and access in the nascent space program and inspired later generations of women aviators and astronauts.

Sailing and public pursuits

Outside aviation, Hart was an avid sailor. She competed in the renowned Port Huron to Mackinac Boat Race on numerous occasions, serving as part of an all‑women crew at least fifteen times. Her interests spanned both competitive sailing and public engagement, and she remained visible in regional maritime and civic circles throughout her life.

Notable activities

  • Pursued advanced piloting and aviation activities that brought her recognition within civilian flying communities.
  • Participated in the Mercury 13 screenings that drew public attention to women’s potential roles in spaceflight.
  • Joined an all‑women crew repeatedly in the Port Huron to Mackinac race, supporting women’s presence in competitive sailing.

Later life and legacy

Hart died on June 5, 2015 in West Hartford, Connecticut from Alzheimer's disease, at the age of 93. Her life is remembered for bridging practical skill and public advocacy: as a pilot, an early participant in women’s astronaut testing, and as a leader among women sailors. Her story is often cited in discussions about the early battles over equal opportunity in aerospace and sport, and it remains a reference point in historical accounts of women in aviation and space exploration.