NASA’s upcoming Artemis II mission, scheduled to launch as early as February 6, 2024, marks a significant milestone in human spaceflight, reviving interest in lunar exploration after more than 50 years. In anticipation of this historic event, we reached out to eleven retired astronauts to discuss their favorite space films. Their selections reflect not only cinematic brilliance but also the essence of teamwork, resilience, and the human spirit inherent in space exploration.
Celebrating Teamwork and Ingenuity
Among the astronauts’ top choices is The Martian, directed by Ridley Scott and based on the novel by Andy Weir. The film stars Matt Damon as an astronaut stranded on Mars, who uses his skills in botany and engineering to survive. Retired astronaut Clayton C. Anderson, who spent five months aboard the International Space Station in 2007, praised the film for its portrayal of teamwork. “It shows the dedication of NASA’s workforce, working together, sometimes at huge personal sacrifice, to get the job done,” he said. The film’s focus on collaboration resonates strongly with astronauts who understand its critical importance during missions.
Dr. Kate Rubins, who logged nearly 300 days in space, echoed Anderson’s sentiment, applauding the film’s scientific accuracy. “It does a great job of showing how biology and chemistry can be used to make what you need from what you have on hand,” she noted. For astronauts, resourcefulness is not just a narrative device but a necessity that can determine mission success.
Another favorite, Apollo 13, dramatizes the true story of the near-disastrous moon mission. Starring Tom Hanks as Commander Jim Lovell, retired astronaut Nicole Stott found the film embodies the lessons learned in her early career as a NASA engineer. “To really make things happen, we have to adopt a ‘here’s how we can, not why we can’t’ approach to everything,” she stated.
The film’s attention to detail impressed Michael Massimino, who participated in multiple shuttle missions. He remarked that it “paid well-deserved tribute to the dedicated men and women of Mission Control.” Chris Hadfield, who commanded the ISS in 2013, added that the film captures the intense reality of spaceflight, expertly showcasing the tension faced by both the astronauts and Mission Control.
Humor and Humanity in Space Cinema
While realism is a common theme among these selections, some astronauts also appreciate films that embrace humor. Galaxy Quest, a comedy starring Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman, and Tim Allen, is celebrated for its portrayal of camaraderie and exploration. Garrett Reisman, who flew on Space Shuttles Endeavour, Discovery, and Atlantis, described it as capturing the joy of space exploration while playfully satirizing science fiction tropes.
Similarly, Stott cherishes films that emphasize human interaction over technical details. “The human interaction between the characters felt so familiar to me,” she shared, reflecting on both Galaxy Quest and RocketMan, another comedic favorite.
For those interested in the pioneering spirit of space exploration, The Right Stuff stands out. This 1983 film follows the original Mercury 7 astronauts and resonates deeply with those aware of the challenges faced in early space missions. Massimino recalled how it rekindled his dream of becoming an astronaut when he viewed it as a college senior.
Timeless Classics and Modern Masterpieces
Classics also hold a special place in the hearts of astronauts. 2001: A Space Odyssey, directed by Stanley Kubrick, is often cited for its groundbreaking visuals and ambitious storytelling. Leroy Chiao, who commanded Expedition 10 aboard the ISS, highlighted the film’s impressive depiction of space, stating, “The way that Kubrick was able to film real-looking space scenes back then was fantastic.” He recommended reading Arthur C. Clarke‘s book for a deeper understanding of the film.
Contemporary films like Interstellar, directed by Christopher Nolan, have also made an impact. Released in 2014, it explores a dystopian future where Earth’s resources are dwindling. Astronaut Josh Cassada, who participated in SpaceX’s Crew-5 mission in 2022, praised the film for its blend of science and emotional depth. He stated that it captures the essence of humanity’s quest for survival in the cosmos, illustrating how time becomes more valuable than fuel during deep-space missions.
Lastly, Terry Virts, a retired NASA astronaut, recommends the documentary Apollo 11, which features recently discovered IMAX-quality footage of the legendary moon landing. “When they showed the launch sequence, my heart was racing faster than when I actually launched into space,” he recounted, highlighting the film’s ability to convey the thrill of that historic event.
As the world eagerly anticipates the Artemis II launch, the personal reflections of these astronauts serve as a reminder of the human stories behind the science of space exploration. Their favorite films not only entertain but also inspire future generations to look toward the stars.
