Minute 039: Our Glitch for This Mission

Despite the early center engine cutoff on the S-II stage, Apollo 13 continues into orbit.

“Looks like we just had our glitch for this mission,” says Lovell.

Back on Earth, Ken Mattingly looks at the empty launch pad, then slowly turns to get back in his Corvette.

“Thirteen, stand by for staging,” says CAPCOM.

“Roger that,” replies Lovell.

“S-II shutdown,” says CAPCOM.

Over the Atlantic, the S-II is jettisoned as the S-IV-B fires up.

“Thrust looks good, Flight,” says Booster, followed by a Quindar tone.

“Flight, S-IV-B cutoff in ten seconds,” continues Booster.

“Thirteen, this is Houston,” says CAPCOM, “Predicted cutoff is Twelve plus Three-Four, Over?”

“Coming up on twelve minutes thirty four,” says Lovell. “And…”  the MET display shows 12:34.

“SECO!” says Fred Haise.

“Shutdown!” says Lovell. “And that, gentlemen, is how we do that.” The S-IV-B shuts down. Apollo 13 is in Earth orbit.

Lovell unlocks his helmet fastener, then removes his helmet. It floats free in zero gravity. Soon, the cabin is filled with floating helmets and gloves.

IN THIS MINUTE:

Jim Lovell: Tom Hanks

Jack Swigert: Kevin Bacon

Fred Haise: Bill Paxton

Gene Kranz: Ed Harris

CAPCOM: Brett Cullen

MSC Controller, Tom: Rory Aylward

FIDO White Team Jerry Bostick: Ray McKinnon

GUIDO White Team: Andy Milder

RETRO White Team: Googy Gress

EECOM White Team: Clint Howard

Flight Surgeon: Christian Clemonson

TELMU White Team: Jim Meskimen

INCO White Team: John Short

FAO White Team: Todd Louiso

GNC White Team: Gabriel Jarret