William Anders, Apollo 8 Astronaut Who Captured Iconic Earthrise Photo, Dies at 90

A Visionary's Legacy

William Anders, the former Apollo 8 astronaut whose iconic Earthrise photograph became a defining moment in human history, passed away at 90 years old. Anders's mission in 1968 was a groundbreaking achievement, as it marked the first time humans had orbited the moon and witnessed Earth from a distant vantage point.

The Earthrise Photo: A Symbol of Unity and Fragility

Taken by Anders aboard Apollo 8, the Earthrise photo depicts our planet as a fragile and beautiful blue marble emerging from behind the lunar surface. This image profoundly impacted public opinion, raising awareness about the interconnectedness of all life and the vulnerability of our home planet. It became a powerful symbol of the potential for space exploration to promote global unity and environmental consciousness.