DURHAM, N.C. -- Duke Lemur Center has two new additions to its lemur family.

• Judith and Mae were born May 14
• The lemurs were named after famous astronauts
• They're considered critically endangered and crucial to the survival of their species

Red ruffed lemurs Judith and Mae were born May 14 to parents Pandora and Comet.

The lemurs are usually given names that revolve around astronomy, but the newborns' names are in commemoration of famous astronauts, Judith Resnik and Mae Jemison.

Red ruffed lemurs are considered critically endangered because they're threatened by human encroachment and hunting.

Judith and Mae, and another lemur, Buzz, are crucial for the survival of their species.