http://www.indiaafricaconnect.in/index.php?param=news/4866/panorama/115

Heartwarming – I wonder if Neil knew how many people he profoundly affected across the globe? Second to last line is my favorite.

I feel bad that young people today haven't experienced the worldwide excitement that the space program used to elicit. A tremendous amount of America's technical infrastructure was based on voter support for capital expenditures related to science and technology.

I do see a lot of enthusiasm for the Mars Curiosity efforts.

Even George W Bush was a fan of going to Mars, and he's not exactly the most scientific-minded orator of our generation.

Both Obama and Romney are in favor of additional investment in space programs going forward, plus there's considerable private sector investment, from SpaceX to Virgin Space Flights.

Jonathan, thanks for sharing this great story!

I concur that the ending is the best:

During my 2001 visit to Likoni and the school, the class VII kids, now all adults with families invited me to an informal chai and mamuri, tea and mamri, at a pupil's home, who was now a teacher at his old Likoni Primary School. As we sat in his small front yard, the Class VII of 1969, now young men and women, arrived. They recalled the days of the broadcast at the school, an event they would not forget, etched in their minds and hearts.

The girls, now mothers, said they felt especially important, to be included in an event of such Global importance. It enhanced their self image so very greatly, as no other girl pupils even in Mombasa island high schools had had such front row seats. “Mwalimu, teacher, we really, really, heard it all.’ They declared.

Three had young sons; yes, they were called Armstrong.

To inspire people he's never met -- that is the definition of success.

Never occurred to me until now, but growing up I knew a bunch of kids named "Armstrong" (first name). Now I get it! #slowontheuptake

Quantifying the "Future Value of Good Will" that programs like this generate is important - NASA is clearly cottoning on to the PR value of their missions, of which this is certainly a part.

And frankly that could give NASA a true mission going forward -- it's not just about what's happening on space, it's also about what's happening here on earth.

As an aside, Armstrong is a much better name than Gnorts, Mr Alien...

Why NASA is worth every penny: