Everyone who owned a TV was sat in front of it, those who didn’t own one were sat with those who did.
Like most of the planet the people of Benalla looked on in awe as Neil Armstrong became the first man to set foot on the moon and uttered the now-famous words ‘‘That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind’’.
Fifty years on and the moon landing is still one of the most-watched television events in history.
This remarkable achievement will be celebrated and commemorated by Astronomy Benalla tonight at a special event held at the Benalla Library.
Starting at 6.30pm attendees can take a look back and reflect on the original footage of this amazing space mission.
The night will include a display of fascinating memorabilia and will tell the story of Australia’s crucial link in this amazing feat.
There will also be presentations, activities and, afterward, a night sky tour.
Prior to 1969 sending three astronauts into space, landing two smoothly on the moon and then returning all safely to Earth, was a dream many believed impossible.
As a result, the success of that one event left an indelible and lasting impression in almost every culture around the world.
It was man’s coming of age, and literally the ‘‘sky was now the limit’’ for humankind’s future endeavours.
Organisers hope the enormity of this achievement can be communicated to generations born since then, and encourage attendees to bring family and friends to be a part of these significant commemorations.
●For more information, phone Astronomy Benalla on 0407532674, or the Benalla Library on 57622069.
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