Neil Armstrong became the first person to walk on the Moon. This event was televised and watched by millions worldwide. Farnsworth's wife recounted that after seeing the moon landing, Philo said, 'Pem, this has made it all worthwhile,' indicating a change of heart about the value of television after seeing its potential for global connection.

Philo Farnsworth appeared on the CBS quiz show I've Got A Secret, during which he was a mystery guest and the panel had to guess that he invented electronic television. For stumping the panel, he received $80 and a carton of Winston cigarettes.