At 94 years old, space exploration icon Buzz Aldrin has initiated divorce proceedings against his wife of 23 years, Dr Anca Faur, in a surprising turn of events that has saddened fans of the legendary astronaut.
The divorce petition was officially filed in Brevard County, Florida, revealing that the couple's separation began on July 15th - a date carrying profound significance as it marks the eve of the Apollo 11 mission anniversary that made Aldrin a household name.
The End of a Long-Standing Union
Dr Anca Faur, 67, had served as the executive vice president of Buzz Aldrin Ventures before their relationship blossomed into romance. The couple tied the knot in 2001 during an intimate ceremony held on Aldrin's yacht, surrounded by close friends and family.
"The marriage between the parties is irretrievably broken," states the legal documentation obtained from Florida court records, painting a stark picture of the relationship's dissolution.
A Life of Celestial Celebrity and Personal Challenges
Aldrin's journey has been marked by extraordinary achievements and personal struggles alike. Following his historic moonwalk alongside Neil Armstrong in 1969, the astronaut faced significant challenges adapting to life back on Earth.
In his candid 2009 memoir, "Magnificent Desolation," Aldrin revealed his battle with depression and alcoholism during the 1970s, ultimately achieving sobriety in 1978. His marital history includes previous unions with Joan Archer, Beverly Van Zile, and Lois Driggs Cannon.
Recent Health Concerns and Public Appearances
The divorce filing emerges during a challenging period for the space veteran, who was recently hospitalised in Italy following a conference. Despite health setbacks, Aldrin continues to maintain a remarkable public presence, recently celebrating his 94th birthday with characteristic enthusiasm.
"I just turned 94 and feel great!" he declared on social media, demonstrating the resilience that has defined his post-NASA career.
A Legacy Beyond Marital Status
While personal matters unfold, Aldrin's contributions to space exploration remain unparalleled. As one of only four surviving moonwalkers and the last surviving Apollo 11 command module crew member, his legacy continues to inspire generations of space enthusiasts worldwide.
The divorce proceedings mark another chapter in the complex life of a man who literally reached for the stars, now navigating the earthly challenges of relationship dissolution in his mid-nineties.
