The official authorized biography of Neil Armstrong, the astronaut who first set foot on the moon 34 years ago, has been signed at Simon & Schuster by senior editor Denise Roy. It will be written by history professor—and author of several books on space—James R. Hansen, who was Armstrong's own choice to tell his story. Armstrong has been a reclusive figure, and the book is expected to offer much new material on his life and thoughts; Hansen will have exclusive access to Armstrong and his papers and is expected to complete the book for publication in 2005. The astronaut will make selective appearances on its behalf. Roy bought the project for North American rights, including first serial and audio, from agent Laurie Fox at Linda Chester; Carlisle & Company is handling foreign. Meanwhile, Clint Eastwood has taken movie rights with a view to starring in, and directing, a film of the life.