Former astronaut dies in tragic Washington plane crash near friend's home, NTSB report reveals
- Former astronaut William Anders tragically died in a plane crash near his friend's home in Washington.
- The National Transportation Safety Board has released its preliminary report on the fatal incident.
- The NTSB report sheds light on the circumstances surrounding the crash.
In a tragic incident on June 7, 90-year-old William Anders, renowned for his iconic “Earthrise” photo capturing Earth from space in 1968, lost his life in a plane crash near Orcas Island. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Anders had informed a friend of his plan to conduct a flyby near her house, a routine he often carried out without aerobatic maneuvers. Witnesses reported seeing his vintage airplane flying over the water before it suddenly went into a steep dive, with the right wingtip ultimately striking the water. The NTSB's preliminary report revealed that Anders' friend and another individual filming the plane were the sole witnesses to the tragic crash. The friend initially thought the left wing dropping was part of Anders' routine, but it soon became evident that the plane was in distress. Despite Anders' significant contributions to space exploration, including the historic “Earthrise” photograph and his work on the Apollo 8 mission, the aviation community mourns the loss of a skilled pilot and respected figure. Anders' legacy extends beyond his achievements in space exploration, as his “Earthrise” image profoundly impacted how humanity perceives the planet. As a retired major general, Anders was known for his dedication to the space program and ensuring the success of critical missions. The aviation community expresses deep sorrow over the loss of Anders, recognizing his remarkable career and the lasting influence of his groundbreaking photography. The tragic plane crash serves as a reminder of the risks associated with aviation, even for experienced pilots like Anders. The NTSB continues its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, aiming to determine the factors that led to the fatal incident. As the aviation world reflects on the loss of William Anders, his contributions to space exploration and his passion for flying remain a significant part of his enduring legacy.