Major William A. Anders, renowned for capturing the iconic Earthrise photograph during the Apollo 8 mission in 1968, has lost his life in a plane crash northwest of Seattle.
Major Anders, a key figure in the historic Apollo 8 “Genesis Flight” that orbited the moon on Christmas Eve 1968, was piloting a small plane solo when it plunged into the waters near Roche Harbor, Wa. The crash occurred around 11:40 a.m. on Friday morning.
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His son, Greg, confirmed the devastating news of his father’s passing.
The Beechcraft T-34 Mentor, flown by Major Anders, is currently under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board. Search crews recovered a body from the crash site on Friday evening, as reported by a U.S. Coast Guard spokeswoman.
Major Anders, alongside Col. Frank Borman and Capt. James A. Lovell Jr., made history as part of the first group of astronauts to journey beyond Earth’s orbit. Their mission, which included capturing photographs and footage of the lunar surface, paved the way for the monumental Apollo 11 mission, where humans first set foot on the moon.
Beyond its scientific significance, the Apollo 8 mission served as a beacon of hope for a nation grappling with the Vietnam War, civil unrest, and social upheaval. During their historic orbit around the moon, Major Anders and his fellow astronauts captured breathtaking images of Earth rising over the lunar horizon, including the iconic “Earthrise” photograph.
This mesmerizing image, shot in color by Major Anders, resonated deeply with people around the world, becoming a symbol of environmental awareness and human achievement. It graced postage stamps, inspired Earth Day celebrations, and earned a place among the most influential photographs of all time.
Key Points
- Major William A. Anders, famous for the Earthrise photograph during Apollo 8, died in a plane crash near Seattle at the age of 90.
- He was piloting a small plane alone when it crashed into the water near Roche Harbor, Wa., around 11:40 a.m. on Friday.
- The crash is under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board.
- Major Anders, along with Col. Frank Borman and Capt. James A. Lovell Jr., made history as part of the first group of astronauts to orbit the moon during the Apollo 8 mission in 1968.
- Their mission was a significant moment of hope for a nation grappling with social unrest and war.
- Major Anders’ iconic Earthrise photograph, captured in color, became a symbol of environmental awareness and human achievement.
- The photograph was widely reproduced and recognized as one of the most influential images of all time.
- Major Anders’ legacy as both an astronaut and a photographer will continue to inspire future generations.
