NASA Honors Apollo Astronaut Jim Lovell After Passing at 97

Legendary Space Explorer Remembered

NASA Acting Administrator Sean Duffy paid tribute to astronaut James "Jim" Lovell, who passed away on August 7, 2025, at age 97. Lovell made history as one of NASA's most accomplished astronauts, participating in groundbreaking Gemini and Apollo missions.

Pioneering Space Achievements

Lovell became the first human to journey to the Moon twice without landing. As Command Module Pilot of Apollo 8 in 1968, he joined the first crew to orbit the Moon. His leadership during the near-disastrous Apollo 13 mission in 1970 earned global admiration when he safely returned his crew after an oxygen tank explosion.

Military and NASA Career

Before joining NASA, Lovell served as a naval aviator and test pilot. Selected in NASA's second astronaut group in 1962, he previously flew on Gemini 7 (1965) and commanded Gemini 12 (1966). Lovell received both the Congressional Space Medal of Honor and Presidential Medal of Freedom for his contributions.

Enduring Legacy

Nicknamed "Smilin' Jim" for his sense of humor, Lovell co-authored "Lost Moon," which inspired the film "Apollo 13." NASA Administrator Duffy praised Lovell's "bold resolve and optimism" that continues to inspire future Moon missions under the Artemis program.