NASA’s Artemis II mission is gearing up for launch, perhaps as early as February 8. This mission marks a significant moment as humans prepare to return to the moon after over 50 years.
To celebrate this exciting time, we asked 11 astronauts about their favorite space movies. Here’s what they shared:
The Martian: A Tale of Survival and Teamwork
In “The Martian,” directed by Ridley Scott, Matt Damon plays an astronaut stranded on Mars. He showcases the power of human ingenuity and teamwork. Clayton C. Anderson, a veteran astronaut, emphasized how the film reflects the dedication of NASA’s workforce. He said, “It shows the commitment of people working together to achieve a common goal.”
Dr. Kate Rubins, who has spent about 300 days in space, praised its scientific accuracy, noting how resourcefulness is crucial in real missions. She said scenes where Damon grows his food hit home, as astronauts often need to make do with limited resources.
Apollo 13: Ingenuity in Crisis
Another acclaimed film is “Apollo 13,” based on the true story of a moon mission turned perilous. Nicole Stott, who has 100+ days in space, highlighted the film’s focus on “how we can,” rather than “why we can’t.” This forward-thinking attitude resonates deeply with anyone in space exploration.
Michael Massimino, who has worked on the Hubble Space Telescope, appreciated the film’s detailed representation of Mission Control, calling it a well-deserved tribute.
Galaxy Quest: Humor Amidst Adventure
Not every astronaut’s favorite is a nail-biter. “Galaxy Quest” is a comedic take on space adventure. It’s loved for its humor and camaraderie. Garrett Reisman, a retired astronaut, says it captures the essence of exploration while poking fun at sci-fi clichés. Stott echoed this, sharing her love for character-driven storytelling.
The Right Stuff: Honoring Pioneers
“The Right Stuff,” a classic from 1983, chronicles the early days of the U.S. space program. It resonated with Michael Massimino, sparking his dream of becoming an astronaut. The film captures the daring spirit of the original Mercury 7 astronauts.
2001: A Space Odyssey: Visual Mastery
For those who appreciate visuals, “2001: A Space Odyssey” is a standout. Leroy Chiao, who spent over six months in space, admires how Kubrick created realistic space scenes in 1968. He encourages watching the film with Arthur C. Clarke’s book for a richer experience.
Interstellar: A Cosmic Journey
“Interstellar,” directed by Christopher Nolan, portrays a dystopian future where humans search for a new home. Josh Cassada, who flew to the ISS in 2022, praised the film for its balance of scientific accuracy and emotional depth. Dr. Sylvain Costes noted how it cleverly illustrates time as an invaluable resource in space.
Apollo 11: Reliving History
Finally, not all great space films are fictional. Terry Virts hailed “Apollo 11,” a documentary featuring newly discovered footage of the moon landing. He emphasized its emotional impact, stating, “My heart raced faster than when I actually launched into space.”
With NASA’s Artemis II mission on the horizon, these films not only entertain but also inspire a generation about space exploration and its vast possibilities. Each film captures a different facet of the human experience in space, blending excitement, humor, and the essence of working together.
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