What Armstrong age means and why clarity matters
This article provides an evergreen profile focused on Armstrong age, emphasizing verified context rather than momentary headlines. The name Armstrong can refer to several notable figures, most famously Neil Armstrong, the first human to walk on the Moon. Here we clarify identity, distinguish individuals where relevant, and outline key biographical milestones with reliable sourcing. The aim is long-term usefulness for readers wanting an answer-first explanation that remains accurate over time.
Key figures commonly associated with Armstrong
When searching Armstrong age, the most prominent public figure is Neil Alden Armstrong (1930–2012), NASA astronaut and mission commander of Apollo 11. Less frequently, queries may refer to other individuals with the surname in public records, entertainment, or sports. This overview centers on Neil Armstrong where direct verification is available, while acknowledging other Armstongs may exist. Age is always calculated from date of birth against the reference date, and timelines are presented with sourced years.
Neil Armstrong: core biographical data
Birth date and early milestones
Neil Armstrong was born August 5, 1930, in Wapakoneta, Ohio, United States. He earned a bachelor of science degree in aeronautical engineering from Purdue University in 1955 after serving in the U.S. Navy as a naval aviator. Early career milestones include completing flight training, being selected as an astronaut in 1962, and commanding Gemini 8 in 1966, a critical test of docking techniques.
Apollo 11 Moon landing and verification
On July 20, 1969, Armstrong became the first human to step onto the lunar surface during Apollo 11, famously stating, "That's one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind." The mission returned to Earth on July 24, 1969. These dates and details are documented by NASA and verified through mission transcripts, telemetry, and official records.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Neil Alden Armstrong | Official NASA biography |
| Date of birth | August 5, 1930 | Public vital records |
| Date of death | August 25, 2012 | NASA obituary |
| Age at Apollo 11 landing (July 20, 1369) | 38 years old | Mission timeline |
| Age at death | 82 years old | Obituary records |
Age calculations at notable mission points
Understanding Armstrong age at key events helps frame his professional timeline. Calculations use verified birth and event dates. Below are selected mission points with his age at the time, sourced from NASA timelines and official records.
- Gemini 8 launch (March 16, 1966): 35 years old, demonstrating early command experience.
- Apollo 11 launch (July 16, 1969): 38 years old, at mission start.
- First Moon step (July 20, 1969): 38 years old, historic EVA milestone.
- Splashdown and recovery (July 24, 1969): 38 years old, mission success.
- Post-NASA career and academic roles: Continued public service into later decades.
Distinguishing similar names and public records
Because Armstrong is a relatively common surname, queries about Armstrong age can refer to multiple people. Examples include individuals in music, sports, or local public records. When discussing the astronaut, specifying Neil Armstrong or adding mission context (e.g., Apollo 11) reduces ambiguity. For other individuals, primary source documents such as census data or official registries provide age and status, though those records fall outside the scope of this evergreen overview.
Common questions about Armstrong age
- How old was Neil Armstrong on the Moon? He was 38 years old on July 20, 1969.
- When was Armstrong born and when did he die? Born August 5, 1930; died August 25, 2012.
- What was his age at major mission milestones? Gemini 8 launch at 35; Apollo 11 launch and Moon walk at 38.
- Are there other notable Armstongs? Yes, though Neil Armstrong (astronaut) is the most globally recognized.
- Why does precise age matter? Accurate age data supports correct historical framing and context for achievements.
Context for historical and cultural references
Armstrong age is often discussed in educational, commemorative, and research settings. Precise ages at events support timelines used in teaching, documentaries, and scholarly work. The cultural weight of the Moon landing means that Neil Armstrong’s age at the time remains a frequently referenced detail, reinforcing the importance of accuracy.
Why reliable sourcing matters for age data
Age is a factual attribute tied to dates of birth and death; small errors propagate through references. By anchoring this profile in verified biographies, NASA records, and reputable obituaries, this article maintains durability. Readers can cite these sources with confidence for long-term use.
Conclusion and lasting usefulness
Armstrong age is most clearly understood in the context of Neil Alden Armstrong: born August 5, 1930, and deceased August 25, 2012. His age at pivotal moments—38 during the Apollo 11 Moon landing—is a well-documented historical fact. This evergreen profile prioritizes clarity, verification, and longevity, ensuring that explanations remain accurate and actionable for years to come.