Full Breakdown
Drake Maye’s Moon-Landing Skepticism Sparks NASA Reply
By Drooid · · How we work
Event Overview
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye expressed uncertainty about the 1969 Apollo 11 moon landing during a WEEI interview, saying he was “a little bit skeptical.” Maye noted he had taken a college-level conspiracy-theories class at the University of North Carolina. His comments quickly circulated on social media, prompting a public response from NASA.
Historical Context
On July 20, 1969, astronaut Neil Armstrong uttered “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind” as he became the first person on the lunar surface, followed by Buzz Aldrin while Michael Collins remained in lunar orbit. The mission returned to Earth on July 24, 1969 after roughly eight days. NASA records indicate the United States has completed 13 successful moon landings, including seven uncrewed robotic missions, and is developing the Artemis IV mission for the late 2020s.
Official NASA Response
He referenced physical evidence such as the pounds of lunar rock returned to Earth—samples examined by international laboratories—and recent photographs from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter that show rover tracks and astronaut footprints at the Apollo sites.
Other Athletes’ Views
Former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy reiterated his belief that the moon landing was “complete propagandist mentality,” arguing that the lack of subsequent crewed missions is evidence of a hoax. Golf professional Bryson DeChambeau questioned the authenticity of the Apollo 11 footage while still affirming belief that humans reached the moon, expressing trust in contemporary private-space initiatives.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I don’t know about the moon, you know,” — Drake Maye
- “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” — Neil Armstrong
- “I think it was complete propagandist mentality,” — Greg McElroy