Apollo 8 Astronaut William Anders Perishes in Plane Crash

Former astronaut William Anders, renowned for capturing the iconic "Earthrise" photograph during the Apollo 8 mission, has tragically passed away in a plane crash in Washington state at the age of 90.

The aviation community mourns the loss of a legendary figure, as Apollo 8 astronaut William Anders passed away on Friday, June 7, 2024, in a plane crash off the coast of Washington state. Anders, 90, was the pilot of the vintage Air Force T-34 Mentor that plummeted into the waters near the San Juan Islands.

News of Anders' passing has sent shockwaves through the space and aviation communities. As a member of the Apollo 8 crew, Anders made history as one of the first three humans to travel to the Moon. During the mission's lunar orbit on December 24, 1968, Anders captured the iconic "Earthrise" photograph, which depicts our planet as a vibrant blue marble against the backdrop of the barren lunar surface.

On Christmas Eve of the same year, the Apollo 8 crew shared a poignant message with viewers worldwide, reading verses from the first chapter of Genesis and wishing them "Good night, good luck, a Merry Christmas, and God bless all of you – all of you on the good Earth."

Anders' contributions to the field of space exploration were immense. In addition to his role in the Apollo 8 mission, he was also a recipient of numerous awards, including the NASA Distinguished Service Medal and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The lunar crater "Anders Crater" stands as a testament to his legacy in space.

Beyond his spacefaring achievements, Anders served with distinction in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of Major General. He was a highly skilled pilot, logging thousands of flight hours in various aircraft.

The cause of the plane crash that claimed Anders' life is still under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration.

"The family is devastated," Greg Anders, William Anders' son, told The Associated Press. "He was a great pilot, and we will miss him terribly."

The loss of William Anders is a profound loss to the space and aviation communities. His legacy as a pioneer in space exploration and his iconic "Earthrise" photograph will continue to inspire generations to come.