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Apollo Astronaut and NASA Hero Thomas Mattingly II Passes Away at 87

Thomas Mattingly II, renowned for his heroic contributions to Apollo 16 and vital role in the rescue mission for Apollo 13, leaves a legacy of innovation and exploration in U.S. space history.

Overview

  • Renowned Apollo astronaut and former United States Navy Rear Admiral, Thomas Kenneth Mattingly II, passed away at 87 on October 31, 2023, leaving a legacy of innovation and exploration in U.S. space history.
  • Mattingly began his career as a Navy pilot before joining NASA's astronaut class of 1966, contributing extensively to the Apollo program that included work on the development of the Apollo spacesuit and backpack.
  • As the command module pilot for Apollo 16, Mattingly played crucial roles in the success of the mission. He also served as the spacecraft commander for space shuttle missions STS-4 and STS 51-C.
  • One of Mattingly's most significant contributions was during the Apollo 13 mission where despite being grounded due to exposure to rubella, he played a key role in bringing his fellow astronauts home safely.
  • Beyond his technical contributions, Mattingly's eloquence and introspection provided a profound insight into the experience of space travel. His awards include the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the NASA Distinguished Service Medal.