A conversation with Capt. James Lovell 50 years after Apollo 13 | USA TODAY

[@robbhahn8897]

No matter how many times Capt Lovell tells the story of Apollo 13, he always seems to enjoy telling it and never seems to lose his enthusiasm and almost childlike wonder at the events of his life. May he go on telling the tale for many years to come.

[@bobbiema6671]

Yes. He's just always so proud. In a humble child-like way. Its so refreshing.

[@jix177]

Yes I almost know the story and background by heart, yet it's still fascinating to hear him tell it again!

[@philindeblanc]

You dont have much of a choice when you are dealing with science fiction.

[@kuntibolox]

@@philindeblanc I love you people and your denial, no matter how down I am whenever I see comments like yours it always, without fail, makes me smile! God bless you for your bone headed, utter pig headed stubborness to accept evidence and facts .God bless you in your blissful ignorance, life must be beautiful in your truth vacuum. :-)

[@philindeblanc]

@@kuntibolox ​ @Kajalou Sorry I hit such a nerve. There is a psychological term for this in the DSM-5 manual for your reaction, its partly associated to the Dunning Kruger syndrome, but more rooted reaction that stems from anger when someone has threatened a BELIEF. Things we know for facts, and someone contradicts it, the normal reaction is hardly EVER such anger and display of hate and displeasure. Your reaction is a classic case in this example. When we know something as fact from say experience, first hand knowledge, or even understand the subject as you know the components to it first hand, humans tend to want to help others also understand and learn. This is across the board. When you have it based on indoctrination, or belief, specially religion, as we have seen over and over in history, the person rages in attacking. So your reaction, helps a lot of psychologists see how you think you have a superior belief or on something, yet you have ZERO understanding of it. I am sorry if I threatened the validity of your religion. "Your love" of such is the sarcasm of coping mechanism. I wish you good health, and maybe some counseling can do some good.

[@budsfan1970]

The more I listen to Captain Jim Lovell, the more I am impressed by him. What an absolutely AMAZING and humble human being he is! At 92 years old, he is sharp, very articulate, and full of life. I would love to sit down for a few beers with this incredible hero!

[@allgrainbrewer10]

Mickey Bodog IKR. Biden can’t even tie his shoes!

[@dermie52]

Until recently you could. His son's restaurant in Lake Forest featured a large "Steeds of Apollo" mural in the main bar and CAPT Lovell could be found there from time to time.

[@jomac2046]

@@allgrainbrewer10 At least Biden would know who Lovell is, Trump knowing would be a real toss up.

[@colinp2238]

They don't make them like that anymore, people these days are too complacent and rely too much on technology and not initiative.

[@allgrainbrewer10]

JoMac Wanna bet? Biden can’t tell his wife from her sister, and still thinks he’s running for the senate! 🤣🤣🤣

[@bobbiema6671]

This man has always been one of my heroes and by far my favorite astronaut from any mission. For so many reasons. So very underrated. To be so very close to your incredible dream, and loose it, yet stay so humble and kind is a lesson I learned from him. I've used that lesson repeatedly my whole life. He did so much in space during Gemini7 and 12, and twice with Apollo. In fact, I believe Apollo 8 was the riskiest mission of all. He'd never say it, but there was only one other Apollo astronaut who was capable of bringing these guys home, that being Neil Armstrong. That's why Mr. Lovell was his backup. To think he could've manipulated his way into a mission back but loved his wife more than his dream, well there is another reason to add to the long list of why he is my hero. Godspeed Captain Jim Lovell.

[@SuperScottCrawford]

Exactly, exactly, exactly! Thank you! You took the thoughts right out of my brain. ALL the lunar astronauts are brave and heroic, but something about Lovell has always made him my favorite. Anyway, you nailed it. My dad was on the recovery ship for Apollo 8.

[@olentangy74]

Thank you for stating exactly what so many of us think. Jim Lovell is a national treasure.

[@beachcomber2008]

Exactly my thoughts about him.

[@simonparker57]

Lovell and John Young were the only two Gemini commanders who later flew under the command of someone else on Apollo. This suggests he was a team player above all. Remember Cernan and McDivitt both turned down flights as LMP because they wanted their own missions.

[@kopfauftischhau216]

Couldnt agree more, but i would like to add Young to the list of people who would have been cabable to fly 13

[@georgspence4999]

Sharp as a tack even at his age. He's probably forgotten more knowledge than most people know. I was 11 at the time when this happened and I can still remember then tension while we were glued to the TV. I also remember the collective sigh of relief when they got back. God Speed Jim Lovell.

[@WestCoastMole]

Yep only a scant few of the original Apollo Astronauts made it to see the 50th Anniversary of their flights.

[@nancyhobson9710]

Yes, a palpable sense of holding your breath. Dad was watching and he said an audible prayer right then

[@williamrowlett740]

Wow! You hit it . Lovell still looks great. What an amazing story.

[@dukecraig2402]

I was 5 at the time and I can remember everyone holding their breath until they were back. My family was particularly glued to the TV during all of the Apollo missions, my uncle worked for Boeing at the Cape, he was there through Mercury, Gemini, Apollo, the Shuttle missions and into the ISS. We just lost him 3 years ago and family of mine in Florida sent me his jewelry box that contains cuff links and tie clasps from Apollo, Shuttle and various satellite missions he was involved in including Magellan. He was 100% rock star to me when I was a kid throughout the 70's and I guess pretty much all my life, I'll keep that jewelry box until the day I die, you'll never see anything from it on Ebay, no matter how bad the economy gets crashed over this coronavirus BS.

[@jessemedina4482]

Brought the whole world together like nothing else before or since. Russia even offered to help in any way possible.. Something about people getting trapped in a hopeless situation that erases all of our differences.

[@johnwatson3948]

What an incredible and luminous personality - you can see why he was a mission commander.

[@GuxTheArtist]

right, it was a great mission. But they never left outer earth orbit -just for a fact

[@TomcatE303]

@@GuxTheArtist Well, they circled the moon and came back.

[@unclerojelio6320]

The movie “Apollo 13” was made 25 years after the Apollo 13 mission. It’s been 25 years since the movie. Now do you feel old?

[@Farbar1955]

The movie was released 25 years later but your point is well made. I was 14 when it happened and in the 50 years since my viewpoint and feelings on the mission have matured significantly. I feel it ranks with Apollo 11 in so many ways as one of the greatest achievements by NASA.

[@darthmong7196]

Wow.... yes I feel ancient now.

[@DJhutcherson]

Roger Banks great observation!

[@DJhutcherson]

And yes it does make me feel old. I was 11 and I can remember going to the theater and watching the movie like it was yesterday, but it was 25 years ago...Time seems to go by a lot faster the older you get. 😕

[@jlshoem]

@@DJhutcherson Your not old, DJ. I was 20 when this happened. LOL

[@jamespowell6744]

Jim Lovell is my favorite Astronaut. Every time I’ve heard one of his interviews, I become glued to my tv or computer. Everything about him is awesome. Thank you for your incredible service Mr. Lovell

[@timmass4635]

He’s all class! What an honorable man!

[@bobbiema6671]

I do the exact same thing. I freeze and it seems like my ears grow like Pinnochios nose so I hear every word. It was this way since Apollo 8 for me. He's just the ideal package for an Apollo astronaut: nerves of steel, in -the - moment mind, curious spirit, humble and kind heart, and a spiritual soul. We can't do much better can we. You know, nothing ever has matched the excitement of those Apollo days. Nothing, it just was the best of who we can be on display for a bit over a decade. Even with the deaths of Gus Grissom, Ed White, and Roger Chaffee it showed we BELIEVED in something enough to keep trying and correct the mistakes even though it hurt so bad (still does actually, as do the others).

[@alteredbeast7145]

@@bobbiema6671 well said!

[@siwalder1618]

Mine too, Apollo 8.....

[@philindeblanc]

You had me at "favorite astronaut" to confirm you are an idiot.

[@stenic2]

It's good to see Captain Lovell still very sharp at 92! , he is my favourite astronaut

[@ari4681]

He has to see his maker and explain his lies to him.

[@bobbiema6671]

You'd think he was 62 the way he remembers every detail. I'll take some of that Space Air, then, please!

[@JRobbySh]

I have a hard time with my income tax.

[@HeadsUpTV]

This man's brain holds memories that 99% of humans can only just imagine.

[@JAVIXcr]

its hard to forget something like Apollo13

[@joekamka8571]

Do you have a fever? Are you alright?

[@kaymuldoon3575]

The main thing is that he does not have dementia. My dad has it, and it’s just awful. Wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy.

[@Gabriel-br4qe]

@@joekamka8571 you're a doctor or something man lol

[@joekamka8571]

@@Gabriel-br4qe only a DOCTOR or SOMETHING can ask another person if they're sick. 😫 😆

[@monteguetwist1190]

Jim Lovell was my hero as a kid and at 60. he still is!

[@MarvelousLXVII]

montegue twist he’s over 90 lol.

[@MarvelousLXVII]

Never mind you must be 60 whoops. Almost there myself.

[@bobbiema6671]

@@MarvelousLXVII CO2 poisoning? (a lousy Apollo 13 joke, sorry....) 😲😲😲😲😂

[@_a.z]

Ditto!

[@malcolmcanning548]

I'm 66 now ,this Walt Disney studios

[@MattAShine]

There are some people in this world that when you see them in an interview you just get the sensation that they’re a good person. This man is one of them. He looks like the kind of guy you could just sit down with and talk to for hours.

[@jezzter4293]

I contacted this man via email years ago & got a wonderful reply. it's a prized email, he made me smile so much. I was a little kid in the Apollo era. Amazing

[@markkoerner6308]

I had the privilege of meeting Commander Lovell at his son's restaurant in Lake Forest, IL, a number of years ago. He was and always will be a personal hero of mine, and it was wonderful listening to him recall the historic events, more than 50 years ago. He is truly an American hero and one of our nation's great leaders and thinkers. I loved his story about his wife giving him a thumbs down from the back of the room when a reporter asked him if he wanted another mission. Says a lot about him as a husband and father. A few years after I met him, I was sitting in Reagan National Airport waiting for a flight home to Chicago. Because of bad weather, every flight was delayed. At one point, I noticed an older gentleman and what looked like his daughter running towards the gate with their carry on luggage in tow - both were in a big hurry. As they got to the gate agent, their shoulders slumped as they were given the news their flight was in a lengthy delay. I looked up, and it was Jim Lovell. The irony of the circumstances gave me a chuckle. Here was one of the most famous and talented pilots in our nation's history, who flew rocket ships to the moon, being told to sit down with the rest of us schmucks, and wait it out.

[@thermalflame8829]

Scott Manley made a video on the oxygen tanks for anyone wondering.

[@beachcomber2008]

And it's good.

[@bobbiema6671]

Thanks, I'll check it out.

[@alteredbeast7145]

Hes annoying and I blew him up on EVE

[@beachcomber2008]

@@alteredbeast7145 Must we wait until alterations are complete?

[@agschwend]

I saw it, wonderful video!

[@robwebber1217]

A true hero, didn't blame anyone and no regrets, a genuine guy who deserves his place in history. I salute you sir!

[@philindeblanc]

MORON

[@cormacbcb]

@@philindeblanc why is he a moron

[@joekamka8571]

"they did not check wether that would function or not" - Lovell From this video, are you watching the same video?

[@mattmorales1636]

Why anyone would vote down this video is beyond me. This flight shows what true leadership looks like both on the ground and in flight. God bless you Capt Lovell and your crew and the crew in mission control.

[@HobbiesRfun]

The 17 thumbs down are from flat earth retards, who think anything having to do with astronomy, and science is fake, and evil. Give it time, and they'll be trolling the comment section of this video, claiming everything that's a proven fact is a lie from NASA, and their goofy BS flat Earth theories are truth.

[@christianege4989]

@@HobbiesRfun And/or from the not-so-big idiots who believe the moon flights were a hoax made in Hollywood.

[@bobbiema6671]

@@christianege4989 I feel a tomato fight coming on... 🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅 😂

[@klausuhlig7141]

@@HobbiesRfun the scary thing is there is so many,

[@bobbiema6671]

@@klausuhlig7141 I think it seems there are more than there are because they are so vocal and tenacious. There are way more of us , but most just take it for granted I think. Or are kinda apathetic. Gene Cernan even said "Truth needs no defense. Nobody can ever take away those footsteps I made on the moon away from me." For me, nobody can take away my memories and reality and feelings about these missions and people either. I'm perplexed by them too but lots of things perplex me.

[@javierlopezgarcia5384]

The first time I heard about Apollo and saw the movie was when I decided to study science and Engineering. Thank you Mr Lovell and all the crew at NASA for letting us dream again with rising up to the moon and beyond.

[@bobbiema6671]

How cool!! Good for you.

[@onlyweknow2]

that's what going to the moon was for...guys like you!

[@97marqedman]

Capt. Lovell is absolutely an amazing person and one of my favorite people. His career is unmatched, in my eyes, and to top it all off he is just the nicest guy ever. It always seems like he’s smiling and happy in every picture - and I’ve seen so many documentaries where other astronauts have said that Jim was always the jovial, joking, happy-go-lucky one on the crew. His stories about meeting Tom Hanks before the filming of Apollo 13 are just hilarious.

[@tessplays6066]

I’m nine years old and I have been inspired by Jim Lovell and his adventures in to space and amazed how brave he is and a phenomenal person he is he is my hero!

[@wino4340]

Capt. Lovell is a true role model, not some some of these sports figures that are often referred to as such.

[@bobbiema6671]

You know how to pick a hero! He's mine too since forever. You follow his lessons and you will do almost anything and you will be happy with your life. Good for you. Keep believing. 🌚🌎🌕

[@mdmjeremiah]

You are very articulate for a nine year old.

[@GayorgVonTrapp]

Utterly riveting. An outstanding mind and persona. Couldn’t put my phone down listening to this.

[@simonparker57]

Brilliant to see Lovell looking so good. He's told that story so many times, yet still he recounts it with patience, humour and humility, and still finds something new to tell us every time. Magnificent.

[@davidladd8821]

I had the ultimate privilege of meeting James Lovell and I can say he is everything all of the comments here suggest. He owned a restaurant in Lake Forest, IL and on the night my wife and I dined there 20 years ago he was there greeting guests. I've always been a NASA history buff and was admiring the small collection of Apollo 8 and 13 memorabilia on display. He approached me and honestly made me feel as though I was the only person in the world that mattered. So kind and caring with an authentic charisma. He acted like an everyman, just a genuine regular guy.

[@alexhatfield2987]

Jim Lovell was my favourite astronaut as a kid. Warm, personable, and a twinkle in his eye. I was spellbound as I sat in front of the TV in Richmond, London at Xmas '68, as Apollo 8 circled the moon and I listened to his voice. In 1970 I remember the newspaper headlines and my aunts tearful reaction as the drama of Apollo 13 unfolded. All these years later, Jim Lovell still comes across as the same good-natured guy. What a life!

[@peanutsmcgonnagle2458]

James Lovell: A beautiful, very personable, appreciative and humble man. I really enjoyed that interview.

[@aarusty51]

When those people wrote all that fake news saying none of this was real it made my blood boil. The Apollo program was one of the greatest things in history .

[@chubbyroyston3880]

Why does your blood boil I believe it was a faked thats my belief you believe it happened I don't have any animosity towards you

[@bobbiema6671]

Let them not believe. I feel sad that they'll never feel any tiny bit of what we do. Don't let them take one nanosecond of joy from you. Let Buzz Aldrin continue to take care of them . 💪

[@theinfiniteblackvoid234]

@@bobbiema6671 ----The people who should "take care of them" is every single NASA Fan and Space Flight enthusiast in the Western World. That is who should "take care" of them", not leave it all up to one man (Buzz) who is elderly. Considering your excellent tribute to Mr. Lovell at the top of this page, that is a very weak and meek comment you made here, and the space program was not made into reality by weak and meek people, starting with President John F. Kennedy, who as a US Navy Captain saved his whole crew in 1943 when their PT Boat was cut in two by a Japanese warship in the middle of the night in the South Pacific.

[@lijohnyoutube101]

chubby royston Do you not know any of the 1000’s of people that have worked in aerospace industry? I just don’t understand... do you people live in caves??

[@bobbiema6671]

@@theinfiniteblackvoid234 but that's what we are doing here, each one of us , honoring all the astronauts and JFK and mission control - EVERYONE. My comment wasn't putting it on Buzz Aldrin. Just that it seems to me he pretty much made them look the aggressors and foolish, way better than any of us could, we won't change them and they love to stir us up. I mean, look how you turned on ME. You can take my comment as weak, but an aggressive reply doesn't prove you are strong. Pilots and astronauts don't take their helmets and break their crafts windows when they get mad just to proove they are tough. Buzz Aldrin, even at his age, did protect himself, space exploration, and the integrity of the missions when he had enough. Why you are taking your frustration out on me I don't know. Might doesn't make right. But go on if it makes you feel better. Your post to me just made me very sad and congratulations, because this troll can now say "Mission Accomplished". What you did to me is just as bad as what they do to Mr. Aldrin, NASA, and here to us on YT. Why are you becoming them? That was my original point, to just let them be the trolls, and also I was trying to add a little humor to an alternative worldview. Instead here I am doing this with you. What I said about a troll to someone upset about it, trying to help a bit, has nothing to do with what I said about Captain Lovell. It was illogical to link the two and attempting to make me look hypocritical was rather mean. It says more about you than me. I hope you were just having a bad moment with that post , we all have them.

[@427max]

I’ve never flown a plane but I can seriously believe he’s 10000% the best pilot to have ever lived

[@ChrisBoar]

One of the highlights of my life was meeting and having dinner with Jim Lovell at Spacefest 2016. Surreal.

[@bobbiema6671]

How wonderful. ☺ Congratulations on that Experience. I bet you remember every detail.

[@jeffsullivan2044]

Okay, you got me.....I'm envious! Lol

[@Paisly17]

I was 10 at the time and I remember this all happening through my dads interest, we watched it both together. He sat me down and explained what was happening to these men in real time. I’m now 60 and my father has sadly passed away but this brings back special memories of my dad.

[@62beachbum]

Jim Lovell is an American hero. This was one of NASA's finest hours.

[@robertmoir-vj1kq]

thank you for posting this you are a real survivor Jim Lovell I too prayed for you and your companions on Apollo 13

[@Williamhyperion4]

I'm 68 of age , but i love to listen to the astronauts telling their stories so often i can.

[@carlherbermann2053]

Got to chat with him on a commercial flight. Was talking for 5 minutes before recognizing him. I asked “Is your name Jim?” . He acknowledged and seemed a little disappointed knowing our casual conversation would turn into a question and answer session, which it did. Still gracious. A real hero.

[@restaurantattheendofthegalaxy]

Jim Lovell has always been my favorite Astronaut. He was heroic in his ability to bring Apollo XIII and his crew home safely.

[@timmass4635]

Jim Lovell and Wally Schirra, all the Navy guys actually...

[@ari4681]

He was at home drinking a beer and watching the drama on tv.

[@kenbrownfield6584]

Don't forget the NASA ground crew that solved numerous problems to bring them back.

[@nebtheweb8885]

@@ari4681 Sounds more like something you would do. He will outlive you and your conspiratard ass.

[@tddsctt]

Calmly said "Houston we have a problem" and started to work towards a solution. He didn't rush out to Costco to hoard toilet paper. 😀 so what we need for our time.

[@bobbiema6671]

So funny, but so true.😂😒

[@orangebetsy]

hahaha...he might've been heard to say "Houston, we got a problem" from the bathroom though

[@jasonmitchell9622]

Well said🙏👍👊

[@klausuhlig7141]

I was around 20yrs, and well said about the toilet paper, many times I thought about people like astronauts like Appolo 13 sitting in there own shit and piss, I also like his saying we'r going to mars because its there, I sure the hell wouldnt volunteer,

[@CrazyCraigfromcraigyland]

@@klausuhlig7141 I would in a heart beat

[@rustyshackleford8923]

Every time I watch whatever documentary about Apollo 13, I am always brought to tears when I hear how the crew kept their wherewithal together, especially when it's James Lovell. They inspire me to be a better man, regardless of what I'm dealing with personally. Godspeed to the crew of Apollo 13.

[@michaelhayden725]

The launch was 5 days before my 21st birthday. I have some real memories of these days. But such professional men (both in the capsule and on the ground). Having listened to Lovell I have to say, what an incredible man - at the time of Apollo 13 he was the most experienced US astronaught - it was his 4th flight and he had been to the moon previously. Thanks Jim.

[@peanutbutterisfu]

It’s amazing they survived. It’s great that Mr. Lovell is still alive and seems to be doing pretty good. Not many people in their 90’s can even speak as well as he did in this video let alone remember everything. Man it would be awesome to be able to sit down with him for an afternoon and talk about some of the things he’s done I would absolutely LOVE that!

[@jshepard152]

Jim Lovell is one of only three men to have flown to the Moon twice. John Young, and Gene Cernan are the other two. Lovell is also one of the first three to have gone to the moon, on Apollo 8.

[@coreyzimmerman9782]

And THE only astronaut who survived 14 days on orbit with Frank Borman!

[@ari4681]

Jim Lovell was a paid clown. If man landed on the moon in 1969 the moon would full of hotels and casinos by 2020.

[@jeffreyhill8040]

@@ari4681 Somebody with skills needs to shut this Ari Ramo down permanently. No more flat earth bullshit. We now have he chance to get back to serious people and serious ideas and problem solving.

[@nebtheweb8885]

@@ari4681 I really hope your comment was a sarcastic joke intended to portray the opinion of an idiot instead of an opinion of an actual idiot.

[@bobbiema6671]

It always amazed me that Gene Cernan got SOOOO close to the Moon's surface piloting the LM. But couldn't land, boy I just think it took so much discipline to not accidentally crash it while looking more out the window at the moon than at your instruments. At that point, he had no idea he'd be back.

[@timjohnson5519]

Truly inspirational. Jim Lovell is such a great, humble American with the can-do attitude that we need much more of today. Glad he is still with us at 92 years old offering his unique perspective on this historical event.

[@donmoore7785]

Very interesting to hear Lovell's take on the Armstrong-Aldrin issue, as well as this mission. I never had heard the details of the failure modes. A very well spoken man and a gentleman. Who the heck would down vote this, a flat earther?

[@beachcomber2008]

Probably.

[@ari4681]

Jim Lowell is better to bring alot of ice whith him when he goes to hell for telling all this bullshit. ( lies )

[@bobbiema6671]

Buzz Aldrin? 😵😨😱😰 (Just kidding). 😳 (( not really)) 😈

[@nebtheweb8885]

@@ari4681 I really hope your comment was a sarcastic joke intended to portray the opinion of an idiot instead of an opinion of an actual idiot. Got any evidence that he is lying? I'll wait......CRICKETS... CRICKETs... CRICKEts... CRICKets... CRICkets... CRIckets... CRickets... Crickets... crickets...

[@bobbiema6671]

@Tony Wilson i was making a joke that perhaps the "down vote" on the video was Mr. Aldrin because he was hypothetically 'mad' at Jim Lovell for his comments. Which is silly because the two did a Gemini mission together. Nothing more than that, and even Buzz Aldrin knows he reacts strongly to things, that's why he was a counter balance to Neil Armstrong. Why you took the leap that you did I don't know. I hope I explained it. Just a dumb joke is all. 😉

[@AlanpittsS2a]

It’s incredible he is even here to tell the story. The amount of team work involved in getting these men back to earth can not be fathomed.

[@parkburrets4054]

Jim Lovell was so kind as to speak at a celebration for all of the boys in the Houston area that earned their Eagle Scout rank in ~1976.

[@bobbiema6671]

I'm not surprised. I bet those kids never forgot that.

[@freshp7640]

An amazing inverview with a great man. His book "Lost Moon" or "Apollo 13" (as the newer releases er called) really makes me undestand the hardships not only of the Apollo 13 crew, but also their families, friends an colleagues. Truely an amazing story of survival.

[@Nghilifa]

apolloinrealtime.org/ You can listen to the ENTIRE mission on this site (Apollo 11 & 17 are also included) , it's truly amazing. You can even listen to a phone-call that Jim Lovell's wife, Marilyn Lovell made to Ken Mattingly (who was replaced with Jack Swigert, because the crew had been exposed to the german measles by fellow astronaut Charlie Duke, and Mattingly was the only one who had no immunity to it, because he didn't have it as a child) and she mentions that her children don't know anything yet, because the explosion happened the night before, after they'd gone to bed, so she figured she'd call Ken, since he probably was in a good position to tell her what was going on (She knew the explosion had happened because she could listen to the air-to-ground transmission through a squawk box installed in her house) .. Truly amazing stuff!

[@davidleonard8369]

I'm reading lost moon right now. Signed by captain Lovell.

[@SimpsonIII]

I’m 30 years old I’m listening to this for the first time ever I had no idea.

[@Kevin-hb5rk]

His mind is still so sharp even at his age of 90, amazing man

[@robertolson483]

In a time like this.... you don't think of the odds... you only think of how to improve the odds. Jim Lovell 4/13/2020

[@bobbiema6671]

Isn't that the best quote??? I'm telling you.......😊

[@carabela125]

Words to live by.

[@tasercs]

If I could choose to meet and shake the hand of anyone on Earth - it would be Jim. He is just the warmest and most inspiring person you could ever imagine. Everything you watch about him leaves you in awe and smiling.

[@scottcampbell5478]

I wouldn't be here to talk about it ! what a GREAT man he was !! cheers

[@davidhancock6109]

What a brave,talented, humble man. Good on you Jim.

[@IntelligentChimp]

That’s a hell of a memory for a guy in his 90’s! I always feel so sorry for Jim and Fred not getting to walk on the moon.

[@VanishingImage]

I cant imagine what he felt when he realized he was never going to touch what his ultimate goal was.....man is an awesome person and his knowledge is overwhelming. We had some of the sharpest minds on this mission that saved 3 lives.

[@frankh.rockel5811]

A true legend! It's a great privilege to listen to him.

[@zacgrasl4229]

When Jim dies, SpaceX should take his ashes to the moon so he could finally be on the moon

[@tomekl119]

Leave this bunch of cons out of that wonderful man's story. They wont be flying anywhere, barely making it to LEO with these puny-ass rockets.

[@softdrink-0]

Why space x?

[@zacgrasl4229]

@@softdrink-0 cuz NASA won’t send rockets anymore

[@Brammy007a]

Not a bad idea at all.

[@juicyjessica2298]

@@Brammy007a agreed

[@rebalynn3117]

I never got tired of listening to this amazing man talk about his experiences in space! :)

[@F-Man]

This man is 92 years old - and holy hell is he still absolutely sharp as anything. I don’t doubt for one second that he could still command a space mission, even today.

[@garyb8486]

Well....in the end, "13" was lucky. To happen at that point in their trajectory on the 13th April, meant they had a chance to return. As he says, any earlier or later in the mission would most likely have resulted in a very different outcome. I've heard this story dozens of times (and as a kid remember it actually happening), and I'll no doubt listen to it dozens more times but the story has to be told by James Lovell. Every telling contains the same enthusiasm and clear intent to entertain the listener. More than fifty years and still a compelling story and story teller. And when an opportunity presented itself to fly again, he put family first. Can't do any better than that. Always moving forward, and never looking back. There's much to admire here.

[@raymondeaton5692]

My all-time favorite astronaut. I was a kid when he flew to the moon on Apollo 8 and I remember the drama of Apollo 13 and the relief when they made it home. I sure would love to meet him.

[@MarkShinnick]

Finally, Jim....the first-person comprehensive explanation. What a great thing you all survived to eventually understand all this.

[@guxyguy7909]

The whole apollo programme was astounding one of mankind's finest moment this man is a hero for the whole of mankind love ya Jim from England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@NigelsModellingBench]

Jim is my favourite Astronaut. I was there to watch 13 launch, with my Mum, Sister and Dad. Our little Cessna let uis down on the way home, so we got to stay in Florida for an extra day, which was my Sisters birthday. The day after the Cessna was supposedly fixed, but the repair guy messed up and we could have crashed as they wrapped the radio lines around the control cables!! What a bunch of memories!! Sadly just my lovely Mum and I are still on this earth, but we have those memories of such a major event that we got to witness and suffer our own near miss adventure.

[@bobbiema6671]

That was a nice story. I'm sorry you lost your dad and sister though. I can tell you miss them. I never got to see a launch in person so lucky you.

[@katebc9148]

Fascinating…it’s a collaborative human miracle that they returned safely to earth. Lovell was a consummate professional, and humble. Armstrong was that type of professional too.

[@agentpr24]

He is one of the few people I would like to have coffee with and learn more about him. He is a man without scandal, humble, humane and generous. He is an example of what a Man and Pioneer should be. It's a shame because I have no chance of meeting him before he's dead.

[@noelroberts8199]

Apollo 13's flight was the most courageous space mission in history, the brainpower at mission control with all the modifications and information needed to get those 3 astronauts back to earth safely was truly amazing. Jim Lovell might not have made it to the moon but he is still a hero and so is his crew...........

[@tonyping3159]

I hope I have half the bearings this man possessed at his age here. He is still smart as ever and no sign of mental decline at all. That incident seemed to bring the best out of people directly involved and just living in the world. We need that now. Loved the movie when it came out and have been watching docs on it since they were available.

[@craigjensen789]

This is a true hero. He and his crew faced insurmountable odds of survival and recovery from 200,000 miles from earth yet they used calm reasoning and intellect to work the problem and return. And those at Mission Control don't get enough praise for their abilities to also work the issues and bring Apollo 13 crew back safely. For Lovell to see success in the face of failure attests to his fortitude and leadership. Apollo 13 is one of my favorite movies, and although Ron Howard took liberties in filming it, he got the events as accurate as any movie based on true life events. Godspeed to those pioneers and adventurers in mans early quest to explore space.

[@DM-Canada]

I was just a kid in grade school. We always had watched the Apollo launches and I remember being so disappointed because we weren't watching the launch. That changed suddenly. I remember seeing the updates and I remember the whole school crowded around the school television (on a big stand) as the seconds ticked by at landing time. As the clock moved past three minutes, it got so quiet and it seemed so long. When the parachutes appeared in the sky, I felt like I saw a miracle. I remember the joy. Captain Jim Lovell was the second hero of my life (the first being my father). Such a humble man, even now.

[@aaura8805]

I remember this very well. My elementary school brought us all into the auditorium where there must of been 10 tv's set up. We watch the splashdown of Apollo 13. So cool.

[@aaura8805]

Here is the splashdown recovery kzbin.info/www/bejne/rYmbXomjrthgfM0

[@LEDewey_MD]

My elementary school did this too!!

[@byrnc927]

I was 13 and in a Catholic School during the Apollo 13 mission. I was a huge space geek as a child. As an example, my parents took me to Florida from Chicago and we celebrated my 10th birthday at Cape Kennedy. I remember being so excited and also sad as Apollo 1 was still on the pad at the time. We prayed every morning for the Apollo 13 Astronauts. I always believed our prayers helped stimulate the creative genius that brought these astronauts home.

[@jbrhel]

I was eleven and we had one TV.

[@gregkinney2565]

I was very young when I first started masturbating. I think it drained me of any energy to pursue a career as an astronaut.

[@jodeneantonson985]

I was born in 1955, so I grew up with NASA and the 1st Space Walk and landing on the moon. When this accident happened, we were all glued to the tv watching. It looked bad and continued to get worse. We were amazed and overjoyed when the men of this mission returned to us, alive!

[@LEDewey_MD]

I have seen and read countless portrayals of Apollo 13,... and it never gets old. Even now, to hear in Jim Lovell's own words the events of that fateful mission, is deeply moving. 🚀💞

[@TechnikMeister2]

The Apollo Program was a perfect example of never say never. I was a young Australian liaison communications engineer based in Houston. It was my job to act as a conduit to the Australia tracking station at the Parkes Radio Telescope, one of only three in the world able to communicate with the missions. I had a console down from Gene Krantz at Mission Control and I monitored the communication between the LEM and Parkes, to Honeysuckle Creek them by cable to the USA and Houston. There were many points of possible failure. The CSIRO scientists at Parkes were the first to hear the message, "Houston, we have a problem". There was a lag of about 10 seconds as the message bounced over the hops. I will never forget the look that Gene gave me. He mouthed the word "Verify" at me. I was on the link and spoke to Parkes who verified the message. All this only took a minute. I then nodded to him and I watched the colour drain out of his face. But his composure right throughout the program was spectacular. I have no doubt that Gene held everything. I remember him saying at one stage that "good enough is not good enough. It has to be perfect." Looking back I don't think that there was anyone else strong enough to carry it off. He has my endless admiration.

[@paul08211973]

Thank You for sharing that bit of unknown information.

[@rudolfabelin383]

I was 11 years old. I can still recall this as a video of my own. I am also a Mechanical Engineer as he is. I think the Apollo program is part of me becoming an ME.

[@bobbiema6671]

I have no doubt..... cool role models!

[@bb22602]

The motto came true - "From the moon, knowledge." NASA and the crews and the contractors learned so much from this mission that probably protected many of the later crews. I also loved Captain Lovell's comment when he was asked what rank he would like to be in the movie. His response - "A captain I retired, a captain I will be." And then he opens a restaurant. I know the Navy is famous for loving good food (my dad was WWII Navy and loved to cook), and he was true to himself.

[@TheDoppelgangster]

I was eight years old and like most of the kids I knew we all wanted to be astronauts when we grew up. I remember thinking 'of course they'll get back' - there was no question, no concern. An eight year old never doubts their heroes. NASA could do anything. Jim Lovell is a legend - along with the rest of them. We don't build em like him anymore.

[@Jkrash55555]

I can’t imagine the chill those 5 words sent down the spine of every engineer in that command center. They send one down mine every time I hear it.

[@CarlosMDominguez]

Captain Jim Lovell, one of my heroes, so easy going, so articulate so down to earth, (no pun intended), along with Gene Shoemaker, and others. Will always admire.

[@JoePlett]

Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin (sorry Mike) and Jim Lovell are the Apollo astronauts EVERYONE remember. The rest of us nerds recall & respect them all.... But Armstrong & Aldrin are iconic for their achievement - and Lovell (and to be fair, Haise, Swigert and the entire NASA ground crew) are iconic for turning near-certain tragedy into white knuckle victory. Not the best of NASA - or even the best of USA. The best of human nature, persistence and resourcefulness in the face of a 'no-win' situation. I don't have words to express the respect I have for Captain Lovell, his crew and everyone @ NASA who made it their personal goal to get 13 home safely.

[@bipolarbear9917]

I still have a vivid memory of being huddled around an old Roberts radio listening to the re-entry. The World literally stood still. The feeling of nail-biting tension. It was silence, you could hear a pin drop, and when the predicted 4min 30sec LOS blackout came and went and there was still silence, we all had this sinking feeling they may not have made it through the re-entry stage. For 90secs we held our breath, looking at one another with a pit in our stomachs until we heard 'Odyssey Houston standing-by over' and the call back, then another agonizing 4mins until the main chutes were sighted. Then we knew they were going to splash-down safely. Utter relief. They were home. Gene Kranz recalling that moment said he slumped back in his seat and wept.

[@jeffsullivan2044]

I think that Ed Harris captured that beautifully in the movie.

[@donb1183]

What a great man. 92 and as articulate as ever. Seems like a genuinely nice person who would be a joy to share dinner with. We need to appreciate these guys as we won't have them around for long. All the Mercury 7 are gone and of the Gemini 9 we only have Lovell, McDivitt, Borman and Stafford left.

[@nelsonrhodes259]

He was part of The Greatest Generation. My God look at what we are now. What a Shame. 😭

[@BoomedYetLush]

Captain Lovell provides the clearest description of the cause of the problem that I have seen. Congratulations on this interview, and congratulations to Captain Lovell for his courage.

[@lindseysummers5351]

Jim Lovell just seems like such a neat guy. For all the egos and testosterone junkies you heard about in the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo to programs, Jim seems very grounded, down to Earth, and humble. He's not a larger than life personality. He looks like he could be my Granddad. I would love to be able to sit around the table and have a real conversation with a legend like him.

[@eojeda1375]

WOW to hear it from the person who lived it !!! this is LIVE history !!! very honored to hear it !!!

[@kellyl7688]

Jim Lovell is my hero ❤️

[@jamestcallahanphotographer]

Absolutely amazing man…Capt. Lovell is someone I’ve always wanted to meet for his humility, intelligence, boundless enthusiasm and above all, his positive outlook. Unfortunately, I don’t feel I’m worthy to stand in the same space and breathe the same air as him!

[@darrensmith6999]

My favorite astronaut. Steely eyed missile man for sure.

[@gmaneis]

I watched the Apollo 8 launch from the beach, and heard this wonderful man speak at Indiana State University many years ago. He was a great speaker and astronaut. So glad he's lived such a long and rewarding life. He has been a true American treasure.

[@James-kk8dw]

A true professional and great pilot !

[@martinap1961]

I have so much respect for Captain Lovell not only for his successful tenure as commander of 13 but as having been able to look at the positive of life afterwards. Imagine, being angry all you life for something you didn’t get....Not Jim !! Bravo and continue being so healthy at 92 👍. Keep on YouTubing !!

[@harlont]

So many great men and women from that era. Capt Lovell and Gene Kranz (who he mentions a few times) are two of the greatest!

[@smeatona]

An amazing man, and magnanimous in his appreciation of the contributions of others. Thank you USA TODAY for sharing.

[@foobarmaximus3506]

What a treasure. Jim Lovell is a true national treasure.

[@josephstevens9888]

Captain Jim Lovell - truly an American treasure! A brave veteran of four space missions and thousands of hours of flight time in high-performance aircraft.... a humble man and team player who puts the mission and others before his own self-interests..... an articulate and intelligent man who represents the best what this nation has to offer. More than that, Jim Lovell is a true gentleman who holds his wife Marilyn and his NASA colleagues in high regard. I admire people like that. It is people like Jim Lovell who truly make America great!

[@twogamer7149]

Thank God for the brave men and women of NASA. Thank God for Apollo 13.

[@davidkeenan5642]

What, no thanks to the hundreds of thousands of involved in the Apollo program?

[@tullyfisher]

Well done and SO interesting. And also so cool to listen to this amazing person. 👍🏼Thanks very much!

[@beameup64]

Lovell has always been a real hero to me.

[@philindeblanc]

Because you have nbo clue what it means to be part of NAWSA inner circle...MORON

[@stephencrisson3595]

Just goes to show you how good their training is how quick they are to react to certain circumstances and how they react to certain scenarios just amazing cuz I'm sure none of them expected that to happen when they were up there go to work through the problem and go all the way around the moon like that and then come back home it's just amazing

[@michaelsamuelson1469]

One of my treasured books is a signed copy of Lost Moon. He was an honored guest speaker in an event that followed by his book signing. In a brief talk when he learned I was a pilot he signed my copy “From one pilot to another...Jim lovell” He is a far superior pilot and astronaut even compared to his own circle of NASA people, and I was and am very honored to be acknowledged by signature.

[@bobbiema6671]

Such a very fantastic and wonderful story!! I bet its the most guarded book you own. Sooooo cool. 📘🆒👮

[@BMrider75]

Lovely interview with Jim Lovell. I've been familiar with Apollo 13 details from long before Ron Howard's great movie, and always admired what a gentleman he is. It shines through here. Smiles

[@cswoody879]

Thank you Jim Lovell, one of the most amazing men, Apollo 8 the first three people to leave earth and go to another body in space a huge moment in human history to be one of those first three to leave the cradle, see the first earth rise, one of only three men to fly to the moon twice. Seven days in a tiny Gemini capsule too, what an amazing career and life.

[@bobbiema6671]

Apollo 8 took the most courage of all. All those firsts, as you said. 😉

[@randcreek9613]

I deeply bow my head in admiration for this great man. So humble, so dedicated, so humanistic - an inspiration for mankind. For me, he ranks with Ernest Shackleton as one of the greatest explorers of all time, because both handled a life-threatening crisis so successfully and saved their crews.