Brits are being urged to share their memories of the Apollo 11 moon landings, as part of a project to mark the 50th anniversary of the historic event.
The crowd-sourced history project by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and the UK Space Agency aims to unearth fascinating first-hand memories of one of the seminal moments in the 20th century.
As well as their memories, Brits are encouraged to share stories about how this moment in history, and space exploration in general, has inspired them or led to a career in the sector.
Entries could include a grainy photograph of a family huddled around the TV; a scrapbook of newspaper cuttings; or a personal account of how the Moon landing has shaped a work of art or led to a lifelong passion for science fiction.
A selection of the submissions will be curated and shared with the public on 20 July 2019, marking 50 years since Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed on the Moon.
"As a young child I was, like millions of people around the world, fascinated watching the Apollo 11 Moon landing," said Sue Horne, Head of Space Exploration at the UK Space Agency.
"I remember our headmistress, who disapproved of television, insisted that the school television was on at lunchtime so we could watch the latest news on this historic event.
"The Moon landing was an inspiration to me and it’s exciting to think that young people today will be part of the next chapter of lunar exploration, with the UK playing an important role.
"I am looking forward to sharing in people’s memories of this iconic moment in space exploration and hearing how those small steps are still having a huge impact 50 years on."
British astronaut Tim Peake, who spent six months on the International Space Station in 2016, added that the 1969 Apollo 11 Moon landing was "not just a pivotal moment in space exploration, but a defining moment for humanity".
"Whether you were too young to witness the first footsteps on the Moon, or old enough to see it for yourself, the Moon landing has inspired so many people over the past fifty years," he said.
"I hope that this campaign from the Arts & Humanities Research Council and UK Space Agency will not only help people to reflect on the historic and cultural significance of this anniversary, but also inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and astronauts."
People will be able to submit their memories and personal stories via moonlandingmemories.com and are being encouraged to share them via social media using the hashtag #moonmemories.
Memories and stories can be uploaded over the next month, with the submission deadline falling on Tuesday 18th June.
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