The Martian
2020

Indiana University Cinema Bloomington, IN

with

Mariek Schmidt

Associate Professor of Earth Sciences, Brock University ; Participating scientist, NASA’s Mars Science Laboratory

and

Siân Mooney

Dean, Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University

The Martian— Living in space: Making Mars habitable

A panel of experts explore the science, technology, and stamina required for humans to live and thrive on Mars. Presented as part of the 2020 National Week of Science on Screen.

Indiana University Cinema Bloomington, IN

Film Synopsis

When astronauts mistakenly leave Mark Watney behind on Mars, the stranded visitor must use his wits, spirit, and scientific know-how to find a way to survive on the hostile planet.

During a manned mission to Mars, Astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon) is presumed dead after a fierce storm and left behind by his crew. But Watney has survived and finds himself stranded and alone on the hostile planet. With only meager supplies, he must draw upon his ingenuity, wit, and spirit to subsist and find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive. Millions of miles away, NASA and a team of international scientists work tirelessly to bring "the Martian" home, while his crewmates concurrently plot a daring, if not impossible, rescue mission. As these stories of incredible bravery unfold, the world comes together to root for Watney's safe return. Based on the best-selling novel by Andy Weir, and helmed by master director Ridley Scott, The Martian was nominated for three Golden Globes.