On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong took one step and made history. Millions watched as he inspired a nation, becoming the first man to walk on the moon.

Armstrong died Saturday at the age of 82, as a result of complications from cardiovascular procedures. The death was reported by his family, according to an Aug. 25 NBC News article.

Armstrong’s famous footsteps on the moon served as a catalyst for those interested in the fields of science and technology, said Cathryn Newton, professor of interdisciplinary sciences and dean emerita of the College of Arts and Sciences at Syracuse University.

“I do not think that the significance of Armstrong as an influence on an entire generation of young people not only in this country, but around the world, can be overestimated,” Newton said.

Known for uttering the words, “That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind,” Armstrong commanded Apollo 11, the first spacecraft to land on the moon.

He joined the NASA’s astronaut program in 1962. Previously, he flew combat missions in the Korean War, according to the article.

Armstrong is the second famous NASA astronaut to pass away this summer. Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, died July 23. Newton said these are huge losses among the science and technology communities.

“I just think that at a certain point in life, people begin to define what they want their legacy to be,” Newton said. “I think that Armstrong’s example was really a catalyst for children, for young adults who had abilities in the sciences and technology.”

Families and friends gathered around their televisions that day in 1969 to watch Armstrong make history, creating a memory that would forever be ingrained in their minds.

“For millions of people, there would be a visual memory of being with an entire family or group of friends watching a single man extend one leg and then another onto the surface of the moon,” Newton said.

When Armstrong stepped off the ladder and uttered his now-famous phrase, millions of people watching were inspired, Newton said.

“So for many of us watching this, we were thinking, ‘What is the leap that I can make in my lifetime?’” she said.

Armstrong’s family released a statement on NASA’s website mourning his loss and encouraging others to work toward their dreams.

Said Armstrong’s family: “Honor his example of service, accomplishment and modesty, and the next time you walk outside on a clear night and see the moon smiling down at you, think of Neil Armstrong and give him a wink.”

 

 

Published on August 28, 2012 at 1:30 am

Contact Casey: cffabris@syr.edu | @caseyfabris