I think you are inferring a meaning that wasn't implied. To admit something is simply making a statement that you believe is real or valid or could be conceding

I think you are inferring a meaning that wasn't implied. To admit something is simply making a statement that you believe is real or valid or could be conceding to someone else's point. None of those things require that you lied before nor does it imply an insult. I suspect if you are inferring that it might say more about your personality than it does the "astronauts". Because there's simply not enough information in the article to know anything about their personality. And as you readily admit it's likely no one ever asked them before so they never lied before or gave any dishonest information.