James Lovell, Former NASA Astronaut, Dies at 97

James Lovell, a former NASA astronaut, passed away on Thursday in Lake Forest, Illinois, at the age of 97. The news was announced in a release on Friday.

Lovell commanded the Apollo 13 mission in April 1970, a significant event when the spacecraft encountered an explosion on its way to the moon. Transport Secretary Shawn Duffy, who currently serves as NASA administrator, spoke about Lovell’s legacy in a statement released on Friday.

Duffy expressed condolences, stating, “NASA sends its heartfelt thoughts to the family of Colonel Jim Lovell, whose life and work have influenced millions for decades.” He highlighted Lovell’s remarkable courage and the lessons learned from his experiences, emphasizing how those contributed to the nation’s achievements in space.

The challenges faced by Lovell and his crewmates, depicted by actors Tom Hanks, Bill Paxton, and Kevin Bacon in the film “Apollo 13” from 1995, remain a testament to resilience.

We are saddened by the passing of Jim Lovell, commander of Apollo 13 and veteran of four space flights. Lovell’s life and work have impacted millions. His courage under pressure helped us to build our path to the moon and beyond. This continues today. https://t.co/ajt8qmxszi pic.twitter.com/jblxzgrmsk

– NASA (@nasa) August 8, 2025

Duffy also noted, “As the Command Module pilot for Apollo 8, Jim and his crew lifted the Saturn V rocket, proving that landing on the moon was achievable. His gentle strength under pressure during the Apollo 13 mission showcased the quick thinking and innovation that ensured the crew’s safe return to Earth and will guide future NASA missions.”