As Apollo 17 returned to Earth on December 19, 1972, an era of space exploration came to a close. As Congress’s focus moved from NASA to addressing the Earthly concerns of the United States, NASA’s reduced budget meant that the cost of Apollo was simply intendable. However, Apollo 13 continues to hold a special place in American memory to this day. To many, in a time when negative headlines dominated the press and airwaves, it was a moment where all Americans, regardless of political beliefs or their background, there was one united opinion: get the astronauts home, safe and sound. Though public interest soon faded as the mission ended, Apollo 13 has remained a part of how innovation and cooperation while working calmly can help us reach solutions, be they big or small.

Works Cited

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