India, Aug. 9 -- James Lovell, the commander of Apollo 13 who helped turn a failed moon mission into a triumph, died in Lake Forest, Illinois on Thursday, NASA announced. He was 97. He was at

" Jim's character and steadfast courage helped our nation reach the Moon and turned a potential tragedy into a success from which we learned an enormous amount," NASA said. "We mourn his passing even as we celebrate his achievements."

His wife, Marilynn, died in 2023. He is survived by his four children.

"NASA sends its condolences to the family of Capt. Jim Lovell, whose life and work inspired millions of people across the decades. Jim's character and steadfast courage helped our nation reach the Moon and turned a potential tragedy into a success...