The first man on the moon is no more.
Legendary astronaut Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the moon, has died at age 82.
If you ask someone who isn’t really into science or spaceflight to name an astronaut, they’ll name Neil Armstrong. The mission he commanded, Apollo 11, is still cited today as perhaps the ultimate pinnacle of human achievement. Most of us grew up in an America still reeling with the idea that Armstrong’s mission meant anything was possible for us, even as that became less and less true. His famous line “That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind” was a motto for millions, not only in America but around the world. The plaque Apollo left on the moon read “We came in peace for all mankind.” One cannot ask for or imagine a better legacy to leave behind.
In comments, what are your own memories or associations with the Neil Armstrong legend?
Photo—File photo from NASA
I always felt bad for Michael Collins, the guy who didn’t get to leave the capsule.
Though I’m past one hundred thousand miles, I’m feeling very still
And I think my spaceship knows which way to go
Tell my wife I love her very much, she knows
Ground control to major Tom, your circuits dead, there’s something wrong
Can you hear me, major Tom?
Can you hear me, major Tom?
Can you hear me, major Tom?
Tranquillity Base – The Eagle Is Coming Home.
What more can one say. Legends live on!