Page 68 - The Appollo Story

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Apollo 13 (AS-508) We've Had A Problem
Unlucky thirteen. By the time Jim Lovell, Fred Haise and Jack Swigert lifted-off at 13.13 CST on 11
April 1970, the world had tired of Apollo flights, and their mission to the Fra Mauro uplands was greeted
with indifference.
Such was the lack of interest that when they made a live broadcast midway through the third day of their
journey, few networks ran with it. 'This is the crew of Apollo 13 wishing everyone there a nice evening.'
Concluded Lovell in the congenial and confident tones of an old space hand. 'We're just about ready to
close out our inspection of Aquarius and get back for a pleasant evening in Odyssey. Goodnight.' Shortly
afterwards the mission was turned on its head and in the ensuing days the plight of Apollo 13 would capti-
vate the entire world.

POST CARD
LAUNCH OF APOLLO 13
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FL. 32899

COMMANDER
James A. Lovell
COMMAND MODULE PILOT LUNAR MODULE PILOT
Thomas Mattingly Fred W. Haise

A VIP launch postcard signed by James Lovell and a cover of the launch

APOLLO 13 LAUNCH