James A. Lovell Jr.: A Journey From Test Pilot To Space Legend

James A. Lovell Jr. is not just a name in the annals of space exploration; he represents the spirit of adventure and discovery. Born on March 25, 1928, in Cleveland, Ohio, Lovell's journey from a young dreamer to a NASA astronaut is filled with remarkable achievements. His early fascination with rocket science and aviation paved the way for a career that would see him become one of the most traveled astronauts in history, participating in groundbreaking missions that not only advanced space exploration but also captured the imagination of millions around the world.

From his pivotal role in the Apollo 8 mission, which was the first to orbit the Moon, to the harrowing tale of survival during Apollo 13, Lovell’s contributions to NASA are legendary. His ability to turn potential disasters into stories of triumph demonstrates not only his skill as a pilot but also his resilience and leadership under pressure. Lovell's life story is not just about space; it’s about the human spirit's ability to overcome challenges and strive for greatness.

As we explore the life of James A. Lovell Jr., we will uncover the key moments that defined his career, his personal life, and his enduring legacy. This article will provide insights into his early life, his career as a Navy test pilot, his entry into the NASA space program, and the impact of his missions, particularly Apollo 13. Whether you’re a space enthusiast or someone curious about extraordinary lives, Lovell's story is sure to inspire.

Table of Contents

• Who Is James A. Lovell Jr.?
• Quick Facts
• Early Life
• Career as Navy Test Pilot
• Entering the NASA Space Program
• Apollo 13: “Houston, we have a problem.”
• Retirement and Movie

Who Is James A. Lovell Jr.?

James A. Lovell Jr. was a test pilot before becoming a NASA astronaut. His early interest in rocket science took him to places literally out of this world. For a time, Lovell was the world’s most traveled astronaut and part of several historical firsts with his flights on Gemini 7, Gemini 12 and Apollo 8. On Apollo 13, Lovell and his crew turned an imminent catastrophe into a “successful failure” as they brought home a damaged spaceship. Lovell retired from the space program in 1973 and has worked in the private sector.

Quick Facts

Early Life

James Arthur Lovell Jr. was born on March 25, 1928, in Cleveland. His father, James Lovell Sr., died when Jim was only five years old. His mother, Blanche, raised her only child in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Jim attended Juneau High School and became an Eagle Scout. He attended the University of Wisconsin from 1946-48, before transferring to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1952. Lovell received further education at Harvard’s Advanced Management Program in 1971.

Career as Navy Test Pilot

After graduating from the Naval Academy, Lovell married Marilyn Lillie Gerlach. They had been high school sweethearts and went on to have four children. Commissioned as an ensign in the U.S. Navy, Lovell served on several assignments, including landing jets on aircraft carriers at night, training that would serve him well throughout his career. In 1958, Lovell graduated from Naval Test Pilot School, beginning a career testing fighter aircraft and other jets. The jobs there carried a high level of danger and a high casualty rate, so it was the place where NASA looked to recruit astronauts.

Entering the NASA Space Program

In September 1962, NASA selected Lovell for astronaut training. It was actually his second application. He had been rejected earlier due to a temporary liver condition. Lovell was selected for the Gemini 7 mission with Frank Borman as commander. The assignment lasted from December 4-18, 1965, and marked the longest any human was in space until the Soviet-manned Soyuz 9 in 1970. It would prove to be an endurance flight as the men had to spend nearly two weeks in a spacecraft the size of a telephone booth.

Apollo 13: “Houston, we have a problem.”

Apollo 13 was to be Lovell’s fourth and final NASA operation and his first time on the surface of the Moon. The mission launched on April 10, 1970, with fellow crew members John L. Swigert Jr. and Fred W. Haise Jr. For the first two days, Apollo 13 was looking like the smoothest flight in history of the program. Fifty-five hours after launch, the flight crew conducted a routine cryogenic oxygen tank stir. Damaged electrical insulation on the wiring created a spark and the tank exploded, causing a loss of oxygen and electrical power in the Command/Service Module.

Retirement and Movie

On March 1, 1973, Lovell retired from the Navy as a captain, and left NASA at the same time. He worked in various corporate jobs until his retirement in 1991. He now tours the nation giving speeches at colleges and universities about his experiences as an astronaut and businessman.

In 1995, Lovell and Jeffrey Kluger wrote Lost Moon: The Perilous Voyage of Apollo 13. The book served as the basis for the 1995 Oscar-winning movie Apollo 13; Ron Howard directed and Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, and Bill Paxton starred. Lovell had a cameo role in the film as the captain of the recovery ship.