Numerous urban myths have sprung up around the first moonwalk, including Armstrong’s alleged words, “Good luck, Mr Gorsky”, referring to a neighbour he’d had as a child.
However, the line appears in no recordings or transcripts of his broadcasts from the moon.
Armstrong did speak by telephone to Nixon, who congratulated the astronauts on their history making effort.
“Hello, Neil and Buzz. I’m talking to you by telephone from the Oval Room at the White House. And this certainly has to be the most historic telephone call ever made from the White House. I just can’t tell you how proud we all are of what you have done. For every American, this has to be the proudest day of our lives. And for people all over the world, I am sure that they too join with Americans in recognizing what an immense feat this is. Because of what you have done, the heavens have become a part of man’s world. And as you talk to us from the Sea of Tranquility, it inspires us to redouble our efforts to bring peace and tranquility to Earth. For one priceless moment in the whole history of man, all the people on this Earth are truly one: one in their pride in what you have done, and one in our prayers that you will return safely to Earth,” Nixon said.
“Thank you, Mr President. It’s a great honour and privilege for us to be here, representing not only the United States, but men of peace of all nations, and with interest and a curiosity, and men with a vision for the future,” Armstrong responded.