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Tokhtar Aubakirov, the first cosmonaut from Kazakhstan and a national hero, has addressed persistent myths surrounding space travel, sharing personal anecdotes that challenge widely held beliefs.

Debunking the Azan Myth

One of the most enduring stories Aubakirov tackles is the claim that American astronaut Neil Armstrong heard the Azan (Islamic call to prayer) from space. Aubakirov stated that this narrative is unfounded, explaining that he personally discussed the matter with Armstrong himself.

According to Aubakirov, Armstrong clarified that the story originated from a misreported journalistic account. "A journalist wrote it that way, and then everyone just kept repeating it. That's how it became a legend," Aubakirov recounted, quoting the American astronaut.

Armstrong further elaborated that while a colleague had converted to Islam, no unusual sounds or the Azan were ever perceived from the Moon. "Yes, one of my colleagues converted to Islam. But we didn't hear anything, no one's voice, from the Moon," Armstrong reportedly told Aubakirov.

A Personal Encounter with the Unknown

Beyond debunking myths, Aubakirov also shared his own encounter with a phenomenon he cannot fully explain, hinting at the possibility of non-human civilizations.

He described an incident that occurred around dawn while he was outdoors. He observed a bright, star-like point in the sky that began to move and approach directly overhead. Despite the winter season, the object was intensely luminous.

"You wouldn't believe it if you told someone; it sounds like a fairy tale," Aubakirov said. He recalled waking up four young men who were nearby. Three of them witnessed the event as the object, described like a "flying saucer," approached them before vanishing instantly.

Adding a layer of mystery, Aubakirov noted that the three men who witnessed this event with him passed away at a young age shortly thereafter. "This event still makes me think. I haven't found a definitive answer. The three men who were with me then also passed away early later. This itself is an unexplained situation," he stated.

About Tokhtar Aubakirov

Tokhtar Ongarbayuly Aubakirov is celebrated as Kazakhstan's first cosmonaut. He journeyed into space on October 2, 1991, aboard the Soyuz TM-13 spacecraft, conducting scientific research for approximately eight days. He holds the distinction of being the last cosmonaut of the Soviet Union and the first from independent Kazakhstan.

A decorated military test pilot, Aubakirov mastered over 50 types of military aircraft, earning the title Hero of the Soviet Union for his exceptional bravery in aviation. In independent Kazakhstan, he was honored with the title "Halyk Kaharmany" (People's Hero).

His contributions extended beyond aviation; Aubakirov also served in government, as a deputy in the Supreme Council and later the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, focusing on defense and security matters.