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Lot #215
Fred Haise

Haise breaks down the cause of the Apollo 13 explosion

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Estimate: $200+
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Description

Haise breaks down the cause of the Apollo 13 explosion

TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, personal letterhead, no date. In full: "After an intensive investigation, the Apollo 14 Accident Review Board identified the cause of the explosion. In 1965 the CM had undergone many improvements, which included raising the permissible voltage to the heaters in the oxygen tanks from 28 to 65 volts DC. Unfortunately, the thermostatic switches on these heaters weren't modified to suit the change. During one final test on the launch pad, the heaters were on for a long period of time. 'This subjected the wiring in the vicinity of the heaters to very high temperatures (1000 F), which have been subsequently shown to severely degrade teflon insulation. The thermostatic switches started to open while powered by 65 volts DC and were probably welded shut.' Furthermore, other warning signs during testing went unheeded and the tank, damaged from 8 hours overheating, was a potential bomb the next time it was filled with oxygen. That bomb exploded on April 13, 1970—200,000 miles from Earth. Thanks for writing." In fine condition.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts
  • Dates: #529 - Ended June 13, 2018





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