The biggest inspiration for the Artemis II astronauts is one of the movies of the season

Only 24 people have had the privilege of seeing, with their own eyes, the dark side of the Moon. This number will rise to 28 with the upcoming Artemis II mission, where astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen will explore this remote part of the natural satellite. Before embarking on this historic adventure, the team enjoyed a more earthly experience: the movie Project Salvation.

A movie that has captivated even astronauts

Directed by Phil Lord and Chris Miller and starring Ryan Gosling, Project Salvation is an adaptation of Andy Weir’s novel that tells the journey of a science teacher, Ryland Grace, who becomes humanity’s only hope. After waking up alone on a spaceship, Ryland must prevent the Sun from going out, a dilemma that becomes complicated with the encounter of an alien in a similar situation. The film has resonated with audiences, grossing $420.7 million at the box office and receiving high praise from critics.

Hansen, the first Canadian to fly over the Moon, described it as a true pleasure to have been able to see Project Salvation with his family before his mission. He emphasized the importance of the film as an inspiring example of courage and sacrifice. Art imitates science and vice versa, he expressed during an event organized by the Canadian Space Agency, highlighting how the story offers a role model in the fight to save humanity.

The connection between the astronaut and the actor is not trivial, as both hail from London, Ontario. Ryan Gosling even sent his best wishes to the astronauts before their launch, creating a symbolic bridge between cinematic fiction and the reality of space. With a promising start to the year, Project Salvation is positioning itself as one of the standout films of 2026, maintaining the attention of both the public and critics alike.

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