“If that’s there, I believe that technology will probably step up to their part of it.”

- August 5, 1930 – August 25, 2012
- American
- Astronaut, Aerospace Engineer, First Person to Walk on the Moon
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Quote
“If that’s there, I believe that technology will probably step up to their part of it.”
Explanation
In this quote, Neil Armstrong expresses confidence in the responsiveness and capability of technology, especially when paired with vision or opportunity. The phrase “if that’s there” likely refers to a condition — such as a challenge, a goal, or a necessity — that demands a solution or innovation. Armstrong’s belief that “technology will probably step up” reflects a deep trust in human ingenuity and the adaptive power of scientific advancement when driven by clear purpose.
This view is grounded in Armstrong’s own experience. The Apollo program was a response to a bold national objective, and it succeeded not because the technology already existed, but because ambition and direction inspired the creation of new tools, systems, and capabilities. His quote suggests that technological progress is often a response to human will — that when the right motivations are present, science and engineering rise to meet the challenge.
In today’s rapidly evolving world, Armstrong’s words continue to resonate. Whether facing climate change, energy transformation, or space exploration, the message is clear: if the vision and commitment are in place, technology can be harnessed to fulfill the task. His quote is ultimately a call for leadership and clarity of purpose — because when the “why” is present, the “how” often follows.
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