DAYS OF FUTURE PAST: FILM VISIONS OF SPACE EXPLORATION, COMMERCIALIZATION AND TOURISM

Paper number

IAC-10,E5,3,11,x9245

Author

Mr. Robert K. Weiss, X PRIZE Foundation, United States

Coauthor

Mr. A. Cochrane, United States

Year

2010

Abstract

As a mainstay of popular culture, films have always had a significant effect on shaping imagination. A
powerful cultural force, film can depict visions of space and space travel that shape public perception as
well as influence those innovators and policy makers involved in actual space development itself. How
have films attempted to create realistic depictions of space travel and themes in the past? How has that
evolved as events in space moved from science fiction to fact and the technology of film continued to
advance? This paper will explore the historical landscape of a selection of space science fiction films from
“A TRIP TO THE MOON” (1902) to “MOON” (2009) highlighting the films’ production, vision and
technology. From the prophetic to the farcical, cinematic narratives including space exploration and
commercialization themes will be illuminated. The paper will also indicate how films utilize production
wizardry and cultural traditions to make their visions of space flight seem real and appealing.

Abstract document

IAC-10,E5,3,11,x9245.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-10,E5,3,11,x9245.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.