NASA has made an announcement that Thomas Kenneth Mattingly II, who played a crucial role in ensuring the safe return of the Apollo 13 crew after a catastrophic explosion during their lunar mission, has passed away at the age of 87. Mattingly was an Apollo astronaut who was widely recognized for his contributions to the space program.

Mattingly, affectionately known as Ken, played an instrumental part in the success of NASA’s Apollo Program. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson paid tribute, describing Mattingly as “one of our country’s heroes” and underlining the lasting legacy of his bright personality in the annals of history.

According to NASA’s statement, Mattingly passed away on Tuesday (Oct. 31, 2023), though the specific cause of death remains undisclosed.

Born on March 17, 1936, in Chicago, Mattingly’s journey took him from high school in Miami to earning a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Auburn University in 1958, as detailed in his NASA biography.

His career began in the US Navy, and he eventually found himself at the Air Force Aerospace Research Pilot School as a student before being selected as a member of the astronaut class in 1966.

One of Mattingly’s most defining moments at NASA occurred when he was exposed to rubella just before the launch of Apollo 13. Despite the potential risk, he stayed behind and made critical real-time decisions, contributing significantly to the successful return of the wounded spacecraft and its crew, which included NASA astronauts James Lovell, Jack Swigert, and Fred Haise.

The actor Gary Sinise portrayed Mattingly in the film “Apollo 13” and expressed his deep respect for the astronaut, considering it an “honor” to portray his character in a post earlier this year on the 53rd anniversary of the Apollo 13 mission.

Nelson highlighted Mattingly’s exceptional piloting skills and mentioned that he served as the command module pilot for Apollo 16, as well as the spacecraft commander for space shuttle missions STS-4 and STS 51-C. His commitment to innovation and resilience in the face of adversity made him an exemplary figure, embodying the spirit of NASA’s missions and the admiration of the nation.

Mattingly’s contributions extended beyond space exploration, leading to advancements in our broader understanding of science. Nelson quoted Mattingly’s experience in orbit, where he once said, “I had this very palpable fear that if I saw too much, I couldn’t remember. It was just so impressive.” Mattingly’s perspective on the boundless possibilities of the universe resonated with his role as a leader in exploratory missions, and he will be remembered for his courage in the face of the unknown for the betterment of our nation’s future.