Apollo 13 savior and astronaut Ken Mattingly passes away
Apollo astronaut Ken Mattingly, renowned for his instrumental role in rescuing the Apollo 13 crew during their ill-fated lunar mission, has passed away at 87, as confirmed by NASA His heroic efforts ensured the safe return of the crew, etching his name in the annals of space exploration history
Apollo astronaut Thomas Kenneth Mattingly II, who played a crucial role in safely bringing back the crew of Apollo 13 after their lunar mission was jeopardized by an explosion, passed away at the age of 87, as announced by NASA.
"Mattingly's pivotal contribution to the triumph of our Apollo Program, coupled with his remarkable character, guarantees his enduring remembrance in the annals of history," stated NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, who honored Mattingly as "one of our nation's esteemed heroes."
According to a statement, Mattingly passed away on Tuesday without any information regarding the cause of death.
Mattingly, born on March 17, 1936, in Chicago, completed his high school education in Miami and obtained a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Auburn University in 1958, as stated in his NASA biography.
Mattingly began his career in the US Navy before transitioning to the Air Force Aerospace Research Pilot School. In 1966, NASA selected him to join the astronaut class. During his time at NASA, one notable feat was his crucial decision-making during the Apollo 13 mission after being exposed to rubella prior to launch. Mattingly stayed behind and successfully guided the wounded spacecraft and its crew, including astronauts James Lovell, Jack Swigert, and Fred Haise, back to Earth.
At the Mission Control of the Manned Spacecraft Center in Houston, Astronaut Thomas Mattingly II commemorates the triumphant recovery of the Apollo 13 spacecraft and crew by indulging in a box of cigars.
Space Frontiers/Archive Photos/Getty Images
Actor Gary Sinise portrayed Mattingly in the movie "Apollo 13."
Sinise expressed his gratitude at portraying Mattingly in a post on X to commemorate the 53rd anniversary of the Apollo 13 mission. Nelson acknowledged Mattingly's exceptional piloting abilities, highlighting his roles as a command module pilot for Apollo 16 and spacecraft commander for STS-4 and STS 51-C space shuttle missions. Nelson also praised Mattingly's dedication to innovation and perseverance in the face of challenges, making him an ideal embodiment of our mission and deserving of our nation's admiration.
Mattinglys contributions "allowed for advancements in our learning beyond that of space," Nelson said.
In February 1972, the Apollo 16 astronauts, namely John W Young, Charles M Duke, and Thomas K Mattingly II, are seen taking a break from their training exercise as part of their preparation for the Lunar Landing mission. The image is credited to UPI/Bettmann/Getty Images.
Nelson reflected on his orbit experience, expressing his fear of overwhelming awe that made it difficult to retain everything he saw. He regarded the boundless expanse of the universe as an infinite source of potential. "TK, a pioneer in exploratory missions, will be remembered as a courageous leader who fearlessly ventured into the unknown for the betterment of our nation's future."
