Two men who helped save the Apollo 13 crew 40 years ago by finding ingenious solutions to catastrophic mechanical problems will headline SolidWorks World 2011, the world’s largest gathering of the engineering and design  community. Their heroics provide an inspirational example of engineering under pressure.

In April 1970, more than 200,000 miles from earth, Apollo 13 sustained a sudden failure of its cryogenic oxygen system. Commander Capt. James Lovell Jr. and his crew successfully modified the craft’s lunar module into an effective “lifeboat” to  provide power and water for an emergency return to earth. Gene  Kranz, lead flight director, headed the ground-based “Tiger Team” that helped coordinate the successful detour. Their actions earned Lovell and Kranz Presidential Medals of Freedom.

“I faced the ultimate challenge when imparting the words ‘Houston, we have a problem,’” says Lovell. “But we all face challenges –  some life-threatening and inescapable, others more routine. I  look forward to sharing my story and learning about the unique  challenges faced by DS SolidWorks’ customers.”

“Throughout my career I have seen the role teamwork plays in assuring ultimate victory in any circumstances. DS SolidWorks as a team  provides engineers and designers with the tools they need to  build products for which, as in aeronautics, ‘failure is not an  option,’” says Kranz. “I am interested to see firsthand how  SolidWorks enables its customers to solve problems in a variety  of industries.”

You can save  $100 on a conference pass if you register before January 7, or take  advantage of our 3-for-2 deal. Find out more at the SolidWorks World website.