Earth's space-borne scientists and engineers aboard the International Space Station (ISS) are in for a treat when the movie "Passengers" is previewed there. Starring Chris Pratt and Jennifer Lawrence, the movie is about two explorers in deep space aboard an otherwise deserted ship for an extended period of time - something the astronauts can advise them on, surely.
Space.com describes "Passengers" as a story of two scientists on a 120-year long voyage who awaken 30 years in to find their massive ship in deep space with no one but each other as company. It also dwells on the struggles they have in coping with their unique situation by using their knowledge of science.
Sony Pictures is sending a copy of the film to NASA, which will send the file to the ISS. According to Geek.com, this is part of Sony's marketing strategy to help boost NASA's exoplanet research and the on-going efforts to find a planet that can host human life. At the same time, this strategy also promotes the movie's emphasis on the science behind space exploration.
In the production, Sony closely coordinated with NASA regarding the details in the movie. Forbes.com quoted the film's producer, Neal H. Moritz, saying, "The movie is about the very real possibility of traveling to a new home around another star. It's fascinating to discover the real science behind that-to see how astronomers are discovering exoplanets and finding ways that what we imagine could someday become a reality."
The film's premiere will host former astronauts Garrett Reisman, Michael Massimino, and Nicole Stott. Sony will also be hosting a Science Panel on Friday, Dec. 9 at from 12:15pm to 12:45 p.m PST.
Cast members Chris Pratt, Jennifer Lawrence, and Michael Sheen will join director Morten Tyldum, and writer Jon Spaihts in the panel, which will also include SpaceWorks CEO Dr. John Bradford and JPL NASA's Dr. Tiffany Katari talk about science elements in the film, especially hibernation for deep space travel, and exoplanets.
"Passengers" will be shown to Earth-bound people on Dec. 21.
Other movies have already been shown in the ISS. These include "Gravity" in 2013, "The Martian" in 2015 and "Star Trek Beyond" in 2016. These were viewed onboard using the 65-inch (165 centimeters) projection screen, installed in April 2015.
