Jim Lovell, the commander of the ill-fated Apollo 13 mission, has passed away at the age of 97. Lovell, a decorated astronaut, helped guide his crew back to Earth after an oxygen tank exploded on their way to the moon in 1970.

In a statement, actor Tom Hanks, who portrayed Lovell in the movie adaptation of the mission, paid tribute to the astronaut, saying, "Jim Lovell was a true American hero and a pioneer of space exploration. His bravery and leadership during the Apollo 13 mission have inspired generations of astronauts and space enthusiasts."

Lovell's legacy lives on not just in the history books, but also in popular culture. The movie "Apollo 13," starring Hanks, depicted the dramatic events of the mission and showcased Lovell's calm demeanor under pressure.

As the world mourns the loss of a space legend, Lovell's contributions to NASA and the space program will always be remembered. His dedication to the mission and his perseverance in the face of adversity have left an indelible mark on the history of space exploration.