MUMBAI: One of the most remarkable sights on television in recent times was the sight of two airplanes hitting the twin Towers in New York three years ago. It should therefore not be a big surprise to learn that a survey conducted by magazine TV Guide in the US indicates that this moment was the most memorable one ever on US television.

The second most memorable moment was Neil Armstrong's famous saying when he landed on the moon in 1969. "One small step for man one giant leap for mankind."

Other moments that made it to the top ten included The Beatles debut in America in 1964 and a speech delivered by civil rights activist Martin Luther King "I Have a Dream." O.J. Simpson made it twice in the top 100 at number 11 and 12. Simpson being chased by the cops a decade ago gave Americans an early taste of the delights of reality TV.

Another figure that made it twice in the list was the late Princess Diana. Her hugely hyped wedding to Prince Charles came in at number 16 while her funeral was at number 23. Another famous moment that made the cut as far as music was concerned was pop star Sinead O'Connor tearing up a photo of the Pope. Needless to say a few days later she was booed off the stage during a concert in Ireland.

Fox American Idol finale last year is down the list at number 80. TV Guide Magazine is a division of Gemstar-TV Guide International. It claims a total circulation of
nine million and readership of 28 million in the US.