Sad news has come from the San Juan Islands where retired Major Gen. William Anders, a pivotal figure from the Apollo 8 mission, tragically lost his life in a plane crash at the age of 90.
William Anders, an esteemed astronaut who was part of the 1968 moon-bound Apollo 8 team, suffered a fatal accident when his vintage Air Force Beech T-34A Mentor crashed near Orcas Queen Island. His son, Greg Anders, confirmed the heartbreaking news, stating, “My hero dad has died.”
The plane, a relic from Anders’ flying days, plunged into the water in a startling incident captured on video. The footage shows the aircraft spiraling down abruptly before hitting the water and bursting into flames, with General Anders reportedly piloting the aircraft at the time.
“The family is devastated,” his son expressed in a statement. “He was a great pilot and we will miss him terribly.” It was also confirmed by the Federal Aviation Association (FAAA) that Anders was the sole pilot aboard.
The U.S. Coast Guard has been mobilized for search and rescue operations following the incident.
General Anders is renowned not only for his contributions to space exploration but also for capturing the breathtaking ‘Earthrise’ image during the Apollo 8 mission. This photograph allowed people around the world to see Earth as a vibrant blue marble floating in space, highlighting the planet’s beauty and vulnerability.
Reflecting on the Apollo 8 mission, Anders once shared, “That certainly was, by far, the most impressive thing. To see this very delicate, colorful orb which to me looked like a Christmas tree ornament coming up over this very stark, ugly lunar landscape really contrasted.” His work was crucial, not only capturing images but ensuring the functionality of the Apollo 8 command and service modules.
During a 1997 interview with NASA, Anders discussed the risks involved with the Apollo 8 mission. He believed the mission was fraught with danger but necessary for greater national reasons. He estimated a one in three chance of not returning to Earth, the same probability of mission success, and an equal chance that it wouldn’t initiate at all, comparing his odds to those faced by Christopher Columbus.
General Anders’ perspectives on space exploration have left an indelible mark on history. His passing is a grave loss to the space community and to all who were inspired by his adventures beyond our world.