Instructions
Read the information below about the first man on the moon, Neil Armstrong, and then complete the questions and activities that follow!
Main Facts
Neil Armstrong was the first person to walk on the moon on July 20, 1969, during the Apollo 11 mission. The moon landing was a significant achievement for NASA and the United States. Armstrong famously said, "That's one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind," when he took his first step onto the lunar surface.
Fun Facts
- Armstrong's spacesuit weighed about suits 40 pounds!
- The moon's surface is covered in dust and rocky debris called regolith.
- There are footprints on the moon that will last for millions of years since there is no wind or water to wash them away.
- After the moon landing, Armstrong and his crew collected 47.5 pounds of lunar rocks and soil to bring back to Earth.
Important to Know
The moon landing was part of the Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. It showed that humans could explore outer space and sparked interest in science and technology.
Questions
1. What was the name of the mission that took Neil Armstrong to the moon?
2. What did Neil Armstrong say when he first stepped on the moon?
3. Name one fun fact about the moon landing.
4. Why was the moon landing important for the United States?
Activity
5. Draw a picture of what you think the moon looks like, or illustrate Neil Armstrong taking his first steps on the moon!
6. Write a few sentences about what space exploration means to you.