Legendary astronaut William Anders, known for capturing the iconic “Earthrise” photo during the Apollo 8 mission, tragically passed away on Friday. Anders, 90, was piloting a small T-34 Mentor aircraft when it crashed into the waters near San Juan Islands, Washington.
Disturbing footage captured by bystanders shows the plane plummeting into a lake. The cause of the accident remains under investigation.
Anders’ legacy extends far beyond his piloting skills. The “Earthrise” photo, a breathtaking view of our planet as a blue marble rising above the lunar surface, is considered one of the most influential photographs ever taken. It is credited with sparking the modern environmental movement, offering a stark perspective on Earth’s vulnerability in the vastness of space.
Tributes poured in from the space exploration community and beyond. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson lauded Anders for “offering humanity among the deepest of gifts an astronaut can give.”
Anders reportedly retired from the Air Force Reserves and General Dynamics, moving to Orcas Island in 1993, where he established the Anders Foundation and the Heritage Flight Museum with his family.
William Anders will be remembered as a pioneer of space exploration and an artist who forever changed our view of our home planet.
