The Martian received critical acclaim for its poignant narrative and gripping story of serving on the red planet. The Ridley Scott directorial mesmerized the audience; almost everyone wanted to learn if similar real events or facts unfolded on some distant planet. So, if you are also keen to know whether or not The Martian was based on a true story, we’ve got all the details for you.
Is The Martian based on a true story?
No, The Martian is not based on a true story, but it does incorporate multiple scientific concepts that are rooted in reality. The movie is inspired by Andy Weir’s eponymous novel. We follow the journey of Mart Watney, who is presumed dead but is actually stranded on Mars. After a dust storm, he is left behind and must find a way to survive on a foreign planet.
The Martian’s real events and facts explained
Even though the events in the movie are fictional, Watney’s way of survival, growing potatoes, and creating water from hydrogen and oxygen were all realistic elements based on scientific principles. NASA has been actively studying space farming and the feasibility of growing plants in space, so it is not entirely an alien idea. Watney also uses electrolysis when he faces a shortage of water. Again, this is a basic chemical reaction applied in several industries.
Moreover, Andy Weir worked closely worked with NASA to close the gap between science and fiction. He was guided by the top NASA scientists and engineers, and this collaboration also continued for the film adaptation. Due to such attention to detail, the struggles faced by astronauts and scientists seemed so realistic.
The Hermes spacecraft, which is crucial to the movie, runs off on propulsion for interplanetary travel. Now, this is a largely used technology that utilizes ionized gases like xenon and expells them at high speeds. Even though this technology has not been used for a mission that involves humans, unmanned spacecraft have previously employed it to explore our solar system.
The real people behind The Martian’s characters
The characters in The Martian are vehicles for the audience to explore the challenges and triumphs in an extraterrestrial environment, and the creators have clearly aimed to capture the spirit of space exploration. The qualities that most characters have in the movie are inspired by real astronauts and professionals who work in the aerospace industry. As viewers, you’ll sense an aura of authenticity and even relatability, even though the film is far from what you can experience on a daily basis.
Is Mark Watney a real person?
Mark Watney is a creation of Andy Weir for his novel, and even though he is not directly inspired by a specific person, he embodies multiple qualities of a space explorer. Mark is resourceful, good at problem-solving, and determined, even in harsh circumstances. His resilience is what truly draws in people and makes them root for him at every hurdle.
Is Commander Melissa Lewis a real person?
The leader of Ares III’s mission to Mars is Melissa Lewis. She is the commander and a fictional character who showcases what it requires to be a leader with decision-making prowess. Her character is based on the astronauts who need to make quick and harsh decisions on their missions to avoid causalities and work for the greater good.
Is Vincent Kapoor a real person?
Vincent Kapoor is also a created character and is the director of Mars missions at NASA. She navigates through the organizational challenges and responsibilities of managing such a complex space program, which has invested millions of dollars in gathering data and advancing the human race. As a high-ranking employee, he reflects dedication and strategic thinking.
