Some innovations are so remarkable that they earn their creators a place in history, even after they pass away. Ed Smylie, a renowned NASA engineer, recently passed on April 21, at the age of 95, in Crossville, Tennessee. His legacy is immortalized in both an obituary in the New York Times and an in memoriam article at Hackaday, highlighting the profound impact of his work during the Apollo 13 mission.
In 1970, Ed Smylie was instrumental in leading efforts to save the crew of Apollo 13, which faced a life-threatening crisis after an explosion severely damaged the command module. The astronauts needed to escape using the lunar excursion module, but there was a significant challenge: the lunar module was only designed to support two astronauts, while three were on board.
The situation grew dire as the supply of lithium hydroxide onboard the lunar module was only enough to filter air for two people. Fortunately, the astronauts could salvage lithium hydroxide canisters from the command module. However, these canisters were square, while the lunar module required round canisters. This is where Ed Smylie’s ingenuity came into play.
Ed Smylie and his team utilized a small inventory of materials available on the spacecraft to design a makeshift adapter that allowed the square canisters to fit into the round openings of the lunar module. This impressive feat of engineering is often remembered as one of the greatest hacks in space history, demonstrating the power of innovation under pressure.
The story of this remarkable achievement has been retold over the years, including a prominent depiction in the 1995 film, Apollo 13. Ed's ability to think creatively and problem-solve in a critical situation not only saved lives but also showcased the resourcefulness of NASA engineers.
Ed Smylie’s contributions to space exploration will not be forgotten. His innovative spirit and dedication to his craft have left a lasting mark on the world of engineering. As we reflect on his life and achievements, we celebrate one of the greatest hacks of all time and express our gratitude for his extraordinary contributions to science and humanity.
Thank you, Ed, for your incredible work and the inspiration you provided to future generations of engineers and innovators. May you rest in peace.
