William Anders, celebrated for his historic Apollo 8 mission, tragically lost his life in a plane crash in Puget Sound, Washington, on Friday, Mail Online reported.

William Anders, a pioneering astronaut who once orbited the moon, was piloting a vintage Air Force Beech T-34A Mentor when it tragically crashed into the waters of Puget Sound. A spectacular fireball marked the incident near Orcas Island just before 11:45 am, as the aircraft hit the water.

The crash not only claimed Anders' life but also stunned the local community in San Juan County, where he resided. Witnesses reported seeing the plane flying at a high altitude before it took a sudden dive and crashed, creating a huge splash followed by flames.

Local Hero and Astronaut's Tragic End

Anders, aged 90, was well-known in the community for his space achievements and as a skilled pilot. His death has brought a deep sense of loss to those who knew him and admired his contributions to space exploration.

The U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Northwest, alongside other emergency agencies, swiftly responded to the crash site. Rescuers commenced search and rescue operations immediately, though they shifted to recovery efforts when they found the aircraft submerged.

A Storied Career in Space Exploration

Anders' role in the Apollo 8 mission 1968 was a defining moment in NASA's lunar exploration history. This mission was notably the first to orbit the moon, setting the stage for the subsequent moon landings. His photographic work during the mission, especially the iconic 'Earthrise' photo, underscored the mission's profound global impact.

The photo, capturing Earth's vibrant beauty against the moon's barren landscape, highlighted our planet's fragility and interconnectedness. Anders often reflected on this moment as a significant, transformative experience, emphasizing the delicate appearance of the Earth hanging in space.

Legacy of Apollo 8 Remembered

The Apollo 8 mission was a technical achievement and a cultural moment. Anders and his crewmates captured the world's imagination by broadcasting live from lunar orbit, including a poignant reading from the Book of Genesis on Christmas Eve.

These broadcasts brought the crew's experiences directly into the homes of millions, linking the daring of human spaceflight with profound reflections on humanity's place in the universe. Frank Borman, the mission commander, recalled the challenge of finding the right words for such a historic broadcast, aiming to convey a universal message.

Investigations Underway Amid Mourning

Following the crash, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched investigations to determine the cause. Investigators are examining the aircraft, which is an older model still cherished by aviation enthusiasts.

Meanwhile, Anders' family has expressed their profound grief. Greg Anders highlighted his father's passion for flying and his legacy as a pilot, saying, "The family is devastated." He was a great pilot, and we will miss him terribly."

Reflections on a Historic Life

William Anders' journey from astronaut to elder statesman of the space community encapsulates a remarkable life. His observations during Apollo 8 provided a philosophical lens through which to view Earth, shifting public perceptions about environmental responsibility and our place in the cosmos.

His fellow astronaut, Jim Lovell, playfully noted the whimsical side of their mission during their return to Earth, proclaiming, "Please be informed there is a Santa Claus," a statement that added a light-hearted touch to their groundbreaking journey.

In his later years, Anders remained a vocal advocate for space exploration and environmental issues, inspired by his unique perspective of Earth. His contributions to space exploration have left an indelible mark on history, remembered by all who cherish the vision of a better future for humanity.

The world has lost a pioneer of the final frontier and a man who viewed our planet as a precious, delicate orb deserving of our stewardship. His legacy, encapsulated by the Earthrise image and his dedication to flight, continues to inspire.