Legendary Apollo 13 astronaut Jim Lovell passed away at age 97. NASA lauded his role in safely returning the crippled spacecraft to Earth in 1970, turning a potential catastrophe into a triumph. Millions watched the dramatic rescue on television. Lovell, who also participated in the Apollo 8 mission, was the first astronaut to orbit the moon twice, though he never landed. His family remembered his optimism and inspiring spirit. Lovell's career started with a homemade rocket and progressed through the Navy to NASA, showcasing his lifelong passion for space exploration.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.