That Time the Astros Coincidentally Honored Apollo 11

Time for the tinfoil hats—or party hats—whichever your preference. Only July 22, Space City’s hometown baseball team, the Houston Astros, hosted NASA Night and Minute Maid Park. One might even say that the stats had an interesting Apollo 11 bent to them … which shouldn’t be all too surprising, as Neil Armstrong’s son, Rick, threw the ceremonial first pitch of the game. It was a strike, of course.

What we do know for sure is how the Astros honored Apollo and NASA … on purpose. Johnson Space Center Director Mark Geyer, along with Deputy Director Vanessa Wyche, attended to show their support. Geyer spoke extensively to the media—even making an auditory appearance on Astros Radio to talk about this historic anniversary event, connecting it with Johnson’s next giant leap. NASA exhibits at the stadium included the Driven to Explore mobile exhibit, photo opportunity spacesuit, Moon to Mars goodies for the kids and the Space Exploration Vehicle. On the big screen, the Astros flashed celebratory Apollo messaging for the fans.

Did their appearance spark a streak of elevens for the Astros? We may never know. Images courtesy of Isidro Reyna.

Enjoy more images from that cosmically connected anniversary celebration, below.