February 12 is a date etched in both space exploration and civil rights history. Twenty-five years ago, the NEAR Shoemaker spacecraft made headlines by landing on the asteroid Eros 433, making it the first spacecraft to successfully touch down on a near-Earth object. The data collected during this mission revealed fascinating aspects of the 4.5 billion-year-old rock, including its cratered surface and lack of magnetic field, feeding our curiosity about our cosmic neighbors.
But wait, there’s more! Not only did NEAR achieve a significant milestone, this day also holds historical weight with the birthday of former President Abraham Lincoln, who helped shape the fabric of American civil rights. Born in 1809, Lincoln’s legacy continues to influence our society today. Speaking of legacies, February 12 also happens to be the birthday of beloved children’s author Judy Blume, who turns 88. Her works have inspired generations—reminding us that storytelling is just as vital as scientific exploration.
This intersection of history, space exploration, and literature shows how February 12 serves as a reminder of our achievements, both on Earth and beyond. With landmark events on this single day, one can’t help but reflect on how intertwined our stories are, from the cosmos to the pages of a book. What stories from history resonate with you the most?
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
