Dr. James Hansen, author of the Neil Armstrong's autobiographical work "First Man" has been at Auburn University since 1986, and was History Department chair from 1992 to 1996. He has written nine books and authored 24 articles on science and technology. As an avid golfer, he is on the committee that selects the Top 100 Golf Clubs in the United States.

Due to Hansen's writing ability and his technical background, Astronaut Neil Armstrong authorized Hansen to write his autobiography, although it took him two and a half years to convince Armstrong. The selling point for Armstrong, as a pilot and engineer, was Hansen's technical knowledge and the fact that he would include how developing technology was the reason the space program would be successful. Armstrong also appreciated the book including his personal, family and community life, his education at Perdue, and his many experiences—including being a test pilot and a fighter pilot in the Korean Conflict.

Hansen's work renews memories for one generation and recounts for the current generation Armstrong’s Apollo 11 flight to the moon, his stepping on the moon on July 20, 1969, and one of history’s most famous quotes: “One giant leap for mankind, one small step for man." Neil Armstrong’s story is truthful and accurate in Hansen ’s book, “First Man,” which was published in October 2005.

Hansen (right) pictured with Club President Debbie Shaw (center) and program host Dick Phelan (left)