Apollo 13 / Unidentified photographer

Damaged Apollo 13 Service Module

April 17, 1970

Vintage photograph with black NASA MSC number “AS13-59-8501” and NASA MSC caption on the verso.
20.3 x 25.4cm (8 x 10in)

This lot has been imported from outside of the UK for sale and placed under the Temporary Admission regime. Import VAT is payable at 5% on the hammer price. VAT at 20% will be added to the buyer’s premium but will not be shown separately on our invoice.
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Lot Essay

This view of the severely damaged Apollo 13 Service Module was photographed from the Lunar Module/Command Module following SM jettisoning. As seen here, an entire panel on the SM was blown away by the apparent explosion of oxygen tank number two located in Sector 4 of the SM. Two of the three fuel cells are visible just forward (above) the heavily damaged area. Three fuel cells, two oxygen tanks, and two hydrogen tanks are located in Sector 4. The damaged area is located above the S-band high gain antenna. Nearest the camera is the Service Propulsion System (SPS) engine and nozzle. The damage to the SM caused the Apollo 13 crewmen to use the Lunar Module as a “lifeboat.” The LM was jettisoned just prior to Earth reentry by the CM.

From NASA caption.