Jim Lovell, a celebrated astronaut renowned for his leadership during the harrowing Apollo 13 mission, has died in Lake Forest, Illinois. He was 97 years old.

Born March 25, 1928, in Cleveland, Ohio, Lovell’s distinguished career encompassed naval aviation and engineering before he became an instrumental figure in America’s space program. Following studies at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and graduation from the United States Naval Academy in 1952, he embarked on a journey that would cement his place in history.

Prior to commanding Apollo 13, Lovell participated in two Gemini missions – Gemini 7 and Gemini 12 – further solidifying his expertise as an astronaut. He achieved another milestone during the Apollo 8 mission, serving as Command Module Pilot and becoming among the first humans to orbit the Moon aboard a Saturn V rocket. This landmark achievement demonstrated the feasibility of a lunar landing.

The Apollo 13 mission in April 1970 is what Lovell will be most remembered for. An oxygen tank explosion crippled the spacecraft en route to the moon, forcing an emergency return to Earth. His composure and decisive actions alongside crew members Fred Haise and Jack Swigert were credited with bringing them safely home, turning a potential catastrophe into a testament of ingenuity and resilience.

The harrowing events surrounding Apollo 13 were chronicled in Lovell’s 1994 memoir, “Lost Moon: The Perilous Voyage of Apollo 13,” co-authored with Jeffrey Kluger. This account served as the inspiration for Ron Howard’s acclaimed film “Apollo 13,” starring Tom Hanks in the role of Lovell.

NASA Administrator Sean Duffy lauded Lovell’s contributions and character, stating that his courage “inspired millions.” He highlighted how Lovell’s work paved the way for current Artemis missions aimed at returning humans to the Moon. Lovell received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Congressional Space Medal of Honor and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His legacy will endure as a symbol of exploration, perseverance, and the spirit of discovery that defines NASA’s endeavors.