Minute 042: Command Module Pilot

GUEST: SPACE SHUTTLE CDR CHARLIE PRECOURT

The CSM and the S-IV-B hang in deep space.

“We’re ready for CSM separation,” says Swigert.

“Okay, SM RCS iso valves are all gray, ” says Lovell. “Okay, Swigert – – Command Module Pilot – – she’s all yours.”

Swigert presses the JETTISON SLA button. The four SLA panels drift away, revealing the Lunar Module. The CSM moves away from the S-IV-B.

“Houston, we’ve got a good separation,” says Swigert.

“Odyssey, the S-IV-B is stable,” replies CAPCOM.

“Translation looks good,” says Swigert.

“We confirm that, Thirteen, ” says CAPCOM.

“Okay, we’re gonna start to pitch around,” says Swigert, “to line up with the LM.”

“You know, Fredo, Frank Borman? Was upchucking most of the way to the Moon on Apollo 8,” says Lovell.

“I’m alright,” says Haise, “I just ate too much breakfast. Let’s go to work.”

Swigert’s hand is on the controller. He pulls it back slightly.

“And, pitching up,” says Swigert. “Pitch rate, two point five degrees per second.” The LM and the S-IV-B appears next to the pilot’s reticle.

“Roger, Jack,” says CAPCOM, “Uh, we see you pitching around.” Deke is standing over the CAPCOM, looking back at the NASA Director in the back row.

“Keep an eye on that telemetry,” says Kranz.

“Roger that,” says TELMU.

“If Swigert can’t dock this thing, we don’t have a mission,” says a controller.

“How’s the alignment?” Lovell asks Swigert.

“GDC? It’s aligned,” replies Swigert, pressing the “GDC ALIGN” button.

IN THIS MINUTE:

Jim Lovell: Tom Hanks
Jack Swigert: Kevin Bacon
Fred Haise: Bill Paxton
Gene Kranz: Ed Harris
CAPCOM: Brett Cullen
Deke Slayton: Chris Ellis
FIDO White Team Jerry Bostick: Ray McKinnon