We asked retired astronauts about their favorite space movies, and this is what they shared with us.
NASA’s Artemis II mission is set to launch as early as February 6, putting human spaceflight to the moon back in the spotlight after a 50-plus year hiatus. This may inspire future filmmakers to explore the possibilities of space travel in their own work.
In celebration of our IRL return to the drama and wonder of space, we asked 11 astronauts to share their favorite space films that capture the thrill of leaving Earth behind. Did your favorite make it?
- The Martian: Survival, science, and teamwork on the Red Planet
Directed by Ridley Scott and adapted from a book by Andy Weir, "The Martian" is a gripping and humorous tale. Matt Damon portrays an astronaut stranded on Mars, using his botanical and engineering skills to survive, while also relying on the collective expertise and courage of NASA and his fellow astronauts.
Clayton C. Anderson, who spent five months on the International Space Station in 2007, found the depiction of teamwork in "The Martian" particularly relatable. "It showcases the dedication of NASA's workforce, working together, often at great personal cost, to achieve their goals," he said.
- Apollo 13: A true story of ingenuity and NASA's finest hour
The film "Apollo 13" is a testament to the spirit of ingenuity and teamwork, based on a true story of a nearly ill-fated moon mission. It stars Ed Harris, Bill Paxton, and Tom Hanks as the mission's commander, Jim Lovell.
Four retired astronauts praised its realism, emotional impact, and tribute to NASA's professional collaborations.
- Galaxy Quest: Humor and humanity in space adventure
"Galaxy Quest" is a favorite among astronauts for its portrayal of camaraderie, humor, and the joy of exploration, even while poking fun at sci-fi tropes. It stars Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman, and Tim Allen.
- The Right Stuff: Daring spirit of the early space program
The 1983 film "The Right Stuff" captures the daring spirit of the early space program, adapted from Tom Wolfe's best-selling book. It follows the journey of the original Mercury 7 astronauts, starring Sam Shepard and Scott Glenn.
- 2001: A Space Odyssey: Groundbreaking visuals and cinematic ambition
Stanley Kubrick's "2001: A Space Odyssey" is celebrated for its groundbreaking visuals and cinematic ambition. Leroy Chiao, a retired astronaut, praises the film's ability to portray realistic space scenes in 1968.
- Interstellar: A journey through space, time, and humanity
Christopher Nolan's "Interstellar" (2014) presents a dystopian scenario where Earth's food supply is depleted, necessitating a mission to find a habitable Planet B. The film is praised for its scientific accuracy and emotional depth.
- Apollo 11: Reliving the thrill of the moon landing
The CNN documentary "Apollo 11" is a must-see, featuring newly discovered IMAX-quality footage and an immersive soundtrack. Terry Virts, a retired NASA astronaut, found the launch sequence particularly thrilling, evoking the excitement of his own space missions.
These films, as shared by retired astronauts, offer a glimpse into the world of space exploration, showcasing the thrill of leaving Earth, the importance of teamwork, and the enduring fascination with the cosmos.
