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Michael Collins, Apollo 11 astronaut, has died (npr.org)

1252 points by edwinbalani · 1977 days ago · 180 comments on HN

Article summary

Michael Collins, the Apollo 11 astronaut, has passed away. Collins was the pilot of the command module and played a crucial role in the mission. The comments discuss his legacy and the significance of the Apollo 11 mission. The conversation also touches on the current state of space exploration and the role of NASA and private companies like SpaceX.

Main themes

  • Apollo 11 legacy
  • SpaceX and innovation
  • NASA and government projects
  • Manned vs robotic missions
  • Space exploration costs and priorities
  • Historic achievements in space research

What commenters say

  • SpaceX's failures are a natural part of the innovation process and should not be criticized too harshly.
  • Government projects should be given more freedom to fail and experiment, just like private companies.
  • Robotic missions can be more cost-effective and efficient than manned missions for scientific research.
  • Manned missions can provide unique scientific opportunities and discoveries that robotic missions cannot.
  • The Apollo 11 mission was a historic achievement that paved the way for future space exploration.
  • Private companies like SpaceX are driving innovation in space technology and exploration.
  • The cost of manned missions is prohibitively expensive and could be better spent on other priorities.
  • The combination of human and robotic exploration can provide the most comprehensive and effective scientific research.