Latest news with #Apollo13
Boston Globe
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Boston Globe
‘Moonwalkers' cinematic experience from Tom Hanks opens in Boston this summer
Narrated by Hanks, the exhibition takes visitors on a trip through lunar history, using a combination of archival NASA footage and 'cutting-edge spatial audio' to retell tales from the famed Apollo missions to the moon. Hanks, who famously played astronaut Jim Lovell in the 1995 drama 'Apollo 13,' also served as an executive producer and co-wrote the project with BAFTA-nominated writer and director Christopher Riley. Hanks previously narrated a moon-themed project in the 2005 IMAX documentary 'Magnificent Desolation: Walking on the Moon.' Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up 'As a kid, I was deeply affected by the Apollo missions and the dedication and commitment of the human beings who made each journey,' Hanks said in a press release statement, adding that 'The Moonwalkers' gives audiences a chance to 'see these incredible moments in a new and enthralling perspective.' Advertisement The immersive film experience features a variety of impressive visuals, including restored NASA footage and images, giving visitors an up-close look at the moon — without the hassle of flying through space. 'The Moonwalkers' will also take a peek at the future, featuring clips of Hanks interviewing astronauts who are part of NASA's current Artemis moon exploration program. Advertisement A look at "The Moonwalkers" exhibit. Justin Sutcliffe According to a press release, the experience, from Lightroom and Paquin Entertainment Group, drew more than 250,000 people during its debut run in London in 2023. Ahead of its trip to Boston, 'The Moonwalkers' made its US premiere at A look at "The Moonwalkers" exhibit. Justin Sutcliffe As Other notable immersive experiences and exhibitions featured at the Saunders Castle at Park Plaza in recent years include 'The Moonwalkers' will be in Boston through September. THE MOONWALKERS: A JOURNEY WITH TOM HANKS The Saunders Castle at Park Plaza, 130 Columbus Ave. Opens June 27. Tickets start at $29.50 for adults. Matt Juul can be reached at
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Ed Smylie, Nasa engineer whose quick thinking saved the lives of the Apollo 13 crew
Ed Smylie, who has died aged 95, was an American engineer who led the team at Nasa which saved the imperiled crew of the crippled US moon ship Apollo 13 from suffocating in their own exhaled carbon dioxide. With typical Nasa engineers' disdain for superstition, Apollo 13 was launched from Florida on April 11 1970 at 13:13 hours (Mission Control, Houston time). It planned to make America's third lunar landing, in the undulating highlands at Fra Mauro crater, amid increasing public apathy about the space programme. Two days later, on the evening of April 13, as they were closing a live television broadcast an oxygen tank exploded with a loud bang and disabled their craft. The shaken crew radioed home the legendary understatement usually misquoted as: 'Houston, we have a problem.' The moon landing was abandoned, and the crew of James Lovell, Jack Swigert and Fred Haise manually navigated around the Moon on to a course back to Earth. Their primary spacecraft, the command module, was no longer viable, but the lunar lander was available to provide limited power and propulsion. Had it not still been attached the crew would have been doomed. Remaining oxygen supplies were adequate, but a few hours later Smylie and his team suddenly realised that another issue would soon become critical for survival – carbon dioxide. Exhaled in the crew's breath, this gas has to be filtered from the cabin atmosphere by lithium hydroxide canisters. High concentrations cause confusion, reduced brain function, loss of consciousness and eventually death by asphyxiation. There were plenty of square canisters in the now powered-down command module, built by North American Aviation, but they were not compatible with the cylindrical ones in the lander, built by Grumman. The need to swap them over had never been envisaged. Smylie and two colleagues worked through the night to devise a method to make the command module's canister fit the lander's receptacle. First, he asked for a list of miscellaneous items aboard Apollo 13, the only things the astronauts had available with which to cobble together something that might work. When he saw duct tape on the list, Smylie breathed a sigh of relief: 'I felt like we were home free. One thing a southern boy will never say is: 'I don't think duct tape will fix it'.' The final contraption also involved a sock, the flight plan binder, hoses from their space suits and a plastic bag. After testing at Mission Control, assembly instructions were radioed up to the bemused crew. When they switched it on, carbon dioxide levels began dropping immediately. It was the ultimate solution for fitting a square peg into a round hole. In a memorable scene from the 1995 film Apollo 13, a character based on Smylie empties a box of duct tape, plastic bags, hoses and other items on to a table, then holds up the Command Module's square canister and the lander's round one. 'We've got to make this fit into the hole made for this,' he says, then gestures toward the pile of junk, 'using nothing but this.' Smylie was later described by Time magazine as an 'improvisational genius'. Robert Edwin Smylie was born on December 25 1929 to Robert Smylie and Leona, née White, at his grandparents' farm in Mississippi; his father managed an ice-making plant. After service in the US Navy he took bachelors and masters degrees in mechanical engineering at Mississippi State University and later earned a masters in management from MIT. After a period with Douglas Aircraft, he joined Nasa in 1962 as head of life systems, then became head of the environmental control systems branch at the Manned Spacecraft Center in Houston. He rose to chief of crew systems division, his role during the Apollo 13 emergency. He later assumed more senior posts at Nasa headquarters in Washington. For his service to the space programme, particularly his role in saving the Apollo 13 crew, Smylie and his team received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Richard Nixon. Ed Smylie married June Reeves in 1954. They had two daughters and a son but divorced; his second wife, of 41 years, Carolyn Hall, died in 2024. His children survive him along with two stepchildren. Ed Smylie, born December 25 1929, died April 21 2025 Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
IOL News
6 days ago
- Politics
- IOL News
Editor's Note: Houston, we have a crisis: The ‘Afrikaaner genocide' myth and the real threat to SA's reputation
President Donald Trump has called for the arrest of South African opposition leader Julius Malema, accusing him of inciting violence against white farmers. Image: AFP 'Houston, we have a problem.' The iconic Apollo 13 line feels oddly fitting for South Africa's latest headache: the 'Afrikaaner genocide' narrative making waves in US-South Africa trade talks. This exaggerated claim, fueled by images of crosses symbolising farm murders, paints a distorted picture of crime in South Africa, ruffling feathers globally. It's a headache for the country's reputation overshadowing its 'Rainbow Nation' legacy. To navigate this storm, South Africa must confront the misinformation head-on while addressing the root causes - crime, unemployment, and governance failures - with decisive action. The 'Afrikaaner genocide' narrative gained traction during the recent White House meeting, where US President Donald Trump presented video clips of Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema chanting 'Kill the Boer,' an apartheid-era struggle song. The South African delegation, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, dismissed the EFF as a minor political party, but the damage was done. The chant, paired with images of white crosses, reinforced a narrative of targeted violence against Afrikaners, sticking in the global imagination. At the Google Zeitgeist event in London last weekend, I faced questions from business leaders about this so-called 'genocide'. I was amused by how misinformation travels - yet frustrated by its persistence. This distortion, like a comedic skit flipping tragedy into exaggeration, stems from a real issue: South Africa's massive crime problem. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Crime in South Africa is severe but not genocidal. Police Minister Senzo Mchunu set the record straight at the latest crime stats release on Friday. From January to March 2025, South Africa saw 5 727 murders (62 daily), 10 688 rapes, and 4 571 kidnappings. These numbers are grim but cut across all communities - not a targeted 'genocide'. Mchunu debunked a viral image of crosses in KwaZulu-Natal, tied to a 2020 farm murder case where justice was served, with suspects convicted. "We have respect for the USA as a country, we have respect for the people in that country and for President Trump, but we have no respect for this genocide story – at all. It is totally unfounded and unsubstantiated." He further said, "We do not deny that the levels of crime in the country are high – we are very concerned. Crime cuts across all divides. We are currently intensifying the fight against crime and criminals. The crime states we are presenting today will show progress; we commend and encourage the SAPS (South African Police Service) to fight on and harder. We will win." Despite these clarifications, the narrative persists, amplified by global figures like Elon Musk, who has claimed on X that South Africa promotes 'white genocide' and that his Starlink service was denied a license due to his race. This misinformation travels fast and sticks, overshadowing South Africa's broader crime crisis, which is tied to a 31.7% unemployment rate (Q1 2025) and systemic inequality. The economic backdrop makes addressing crime even tougher. The recent Budget 3.0, finalised after two failed attempts, slashed R68 billion in spending over the medium term and downgraded 2025 GDP growth to 1.4% (from 1.9% in March). This fiscal squeeze, reflecting a 'bottom-of-the-barrel' economy, limits resources for policing and job creation. The budget process itself, marred by political wrangling, underscores South Africa's reputation as an 'extended talk shop' where rhetoric often trumps action. This perception of inaction feeds into the global narrative, making it harder to counter the 'genocide' label and attract investment. Worse, the trade talks exposed another complication: the proposed Starlink deal. Reports suggest the government may bypass Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) laws through 'equity equivalent' arrangements, allowing Starlink to invest in development projects instead of ceding equity. This move, while pragmatic, risks undermining BEE - a cornerstone of post-apartheid transformation designed to redress historical disparities. Bending rules for a high-profile figure like Musk could signal to investors that South Africa's legislative framework is flexible, eroding trust. For example, the MultiChoice-Canal+ deal adhered to BEE. If BEE is sidestepped, what message does this send? That the policy is negotiable? This opens a can of worms, threatening the consistency investors crave and potentially undermining the spirit of South Africa's post-apartheid vision. This governance inconsistency ties into a broader issue: accountability. The Zondo Commission, costing millions, exposed State Capture corruption, yet few prosecutions followed, fostering perceptions of impunity. To rebuild trust, I propose fast-tracking mandatory lifestyle audits for all government officials and political leaders - 37% of Gauteng's senior officials recently failed such audits. Suspending officials under investigation until cleared could further deter corruption. These steps, though, require political will, which has been lacking in a system where committees often produce 'hot air' instead of results. Ultimately, South Africa's 'Afrikaaner genocide' narrative is more than a diplomatic headache - it's a wake-up call. While the country's brightest need to put their heads together to whittle away at the crime conundrum, more needs to be done on every level for South Africa to reclaim its Proudly South African shine. Houston, we have a problem - but it's not unsolvable. South Africa's challenge is to reclaim its narrative through tangible action: robust crime reduction, economic revitalisation, and transparent governance. The 'Afrikaaner genocide' label, threatens to derail progress, but with strategic focus - clear policies, accountability, and global engagement - South Africa can realign its trajectory. A united, action-oriented approach can restore the nation's shine as a beacon of resilience, not a caricature of chaos. Visit: Philippa Larkin, is the executive edior of Business Report. Image: Supplied
Economist
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Economist
Vietnam's last best chance to get rich
The country's leader is in a mad rush to transform his country into an upper-middle-income powerhouse before geopolitical forces stall its rise. America's army is being thinned out; we examine the risks of putting both weapons and generals on the chopping block (10:12). And remembering Ed Smylie, who saved the crew of Apollo 13 with a delightfully low-tech plan (17:47). Runtime: 24 min
Pink Villa
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Tom Hanks Movies Based on Real Events: From Bridge of Spies to Apollo 13
There is no doubt that Tom Hanks has given us some of the best on-screen characters, whether from the classic Forrest Gump or the widely loved Toy Story series. However, he truly shines when portraying real-life heroes and historical figures in Tom Hanks movies based on true events. He's called the 'everyman' in extraordinary real-life situations for a reason. If you're not yet familiar with these films, here's a list that will have you excited to grab a bucket of popcorn and binge the stories that have resonated with audiences worldwide. 1. Bridge of Spies Role: James B. Donovan Director: Steven Spielberg Release Year: 2015 Based On: Cold War/prisoner exchange IMDb Rating: 7.6/10 Where to Watch: Not available online Set in the 1960s, the movie follows lawyer James Donovan as he negotiates a high-stakes prisoner exchange between the US and the Soviets. This is one of the Tom Hanks movies based on real events, where Hanks' character works tirelessly to free a Soviet spy in exchange for American U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers. The tension is palpable, with gripping courtroom scenes and intense moments at a CIA facility. The film is packed with dramatic visuals and emotional depth that will keep your heart racing throughout. 2. Apollo 13 Role: Jim Lovell Director: Ron Howard Release Year: 1995 Based On: NASA's space program IMDb Rating: 7.7/10 Where to Watch: Apple TV This was the biggest national disaster that shook faith in NASA's space program. Despite facing terrifying dangers, the Apollo 13 crew managed to return safely to Earth. In this Tom Hanks movie based on real events, NASA races against time to devise a plan to bring the damaged spacecraft back safely. The mission takes a harrowing turn as the spacecraft suffers critical internal damage, putting the lives of the three astronauts on board at great risk. 3. The Post Role: Ben Bradlee Director: Steven Spielberg Release Year: 2017 Based On: Journalism IMDb Rating: Unknown Where to Watch: Apple TV Focusing on Meryl Streep's Katherine Graham and Tom Hanks' Ben Bradlee, the film depicts their struggle to publish the Pentagon Papers at The Washington Post. Set in 1970, this compelling true story is tangled with political conspiracy. This is another Tom Hanks movie based on real events that will keep you on the edge of your seat, filled with tension as Katherine Graham becomes the first female publisher in a male-dominated industry, determined to bring the harsh truth to light. Tom Hanks' character, editor Ben Bradlee, and Streep's Katherine use their journalistic expertise to fight against all odds. 4. Charlie Wilson's War Role: Charlie Wilson Director: Mike Nichols Release Year: 2007 Based On: Cold War IMDb Rating: 7.0/10 Where to Watch: Apple TV The movie follows the U.S. efforts to support the Afghan people against the Soviets during the 1980s. Tom Hanks stars as Congressman Charlie Wilson. In this Tom Hanks movie based on real events, Wilson is portrayed initially as a party boy who gradually transforms into a dedicated lawmaker. The film offers a poignant look at how the decisions of lawmakers and the government profoundly impact the lives of the citizens they serve. 5. Elvis Role: Colonel Tom Parker Director: Baz Luhrmann Release Year: 2022 Based On: Elvis Presley IMDb Rating: 7.3/10 Where to Watch: Apple TV Elvis Presley needs no introduction. However, this movie isn't just about the King of Rock & Roll but also about the man who discovered the talent of a young boy from a broken home in Memphis, Tennessee—played by Austin Butler. Importantly, Tom Hanks portrays this man, a character who is far from heroic. In this Tom Hanks movie based on real events, Hanks takes on one of the rarest and most complex roles of his career. If you're expecting just another biopic about the world's greatest musician, think again. This film offers a fresh and unique approach to storytelling. Austin Butler's portrayal of Elvis Presley is so captivating, you'll soon believe he truly is the King. Plus, get ready to groove to the timeless classic tracks that have been loved for generations. 6. Saving Mr. Banks Role: Walt Disney Director: John Lee Hancock Release Year: 2013 Based On: Walt Disney IMDb Rating: 7.5/10 Where to Watch: Apple TV Saving Mr. Banks is one of the beloved Tom Hanks movies based on real events that continues to captivate audiences. The film explores the life of the legendary Walt Disney, focusing on his early struggles to bring P.L. Travers' novel Mary Poppins to the big screen. Hanks delivers a compelling performance that will keep you hooked, drawing on his deep connection with the Disney franchise. Fans may recall that he famously voiced Woody in the Toy Story series. Watching his role in Saving Mr. Banks makes it clear that Hanks portrayed Disney with heartfelt compassion and dedication. 7. Captain Phillips Role: Richard Phillips Director: Paul Greengrass Release Year: 2013 Based On: Hijacking IMDb Rating: 7.8/10 Where to Watch: Apple TV Although based on Stephen Talty's 2010 novel, this movie is essentially a biopic about Captain Richard Phillips. The story follows his voyage through pirate-infested waters off the coast of Kenya. What begins as a routine cargo shipping trip quickly turns into a harrowing ordeal when the crew is taken hostage. The situation escalates as Captain Phillips is kidnapped by Abduwali Muse and his group, who demand a ransom. 8. Sully Role: Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger Director: Clint Eastwood Release Year: 2016 Based On: Damaged plane IMDb Rating: 7.4/10 Where to Watch: Max Sully is one of the most gripping real-life stories ever told and another standout Tom Hanks movie based on true events. Tom Hanks plays Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger, the pilot of Flight 1549. When both engines of the plane fail mid-flight, Sully is forced to make an emergency landing—on New York City's Hudson River. But the real tension begins afterward, as Sully faces intense investigation and scrutiny. In real life, public opinion was divided: many hailed Sully as a heroic pilot who saved dozens of lives, while others questioned whether his actions were reckless. 9. A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood Role: Fred Rogers Director: Marielle Heller Release Year: 2019 Based On: Journalism IMDb Rating: 7.2/10 Where to Watch: Apple TV This biopic explores the complexities of Fred Rogers, delving into whether he was truly as iconic as America believed. The film carefully follows investigative journalist Lloyd Vogel's journey as he uncovers the real Mister Rogers. Experience the story behind America's Dad in one of the compelling Tom Hanks movies based on real events. Tom Hanks's other movies partially based on real life include Catch Me If You Can, Cast Away, Saving Private Ryan, and more. To some extent, even Forrest Gump fits into this category. Conclusion
