Martha's Vineyard Film Society Tisbury, MA
Dr. Philip Metzger
Planetary Scientist
Linoleum— The tragedy of the commons in space
Program Description
Planetary scientist Dr. Philip Metzger explores how we navigate the growing problems of orbital debris.
Presented At
Martha's Vineyard Film Society Tisbury, MA
Film Synopsis
When the host of a failing children's science show tries to fulfill his childhood dream of becoming an astronaut, a series of bizarre events occur that cause him to question his own reality.
When a satellite falls from the sky, Cameron (Jim Gaffigan) finds his life upended. A strange newcomer threatens his job as the host of a quaint children’s science show at the local television station, while his family life begins to crumble. His steely wife Erin (Rhea Seehorn) attempts to guide their wayward daughter, grow her own career, and deal with her husband’s increasingly bizarre behavior. Meanwhile, Cameron steadfastly ignores the series of odd events and mysterious individuals in his small hometown as he obsessively builds a rocket ship from the satellite debris, chasing a childhood dream. This quirky, sweet film leads to unexpected places, unfolding into a profound meditation on love as Cameron searches for meaning and adventure amongst the stars.
About the Speaker
Dr. Philip Metzger is a planetary scientist and the director of the Stephen W. Hawking Center for Microgravity Research and Education at the University of Central Florida. He performs research and technology development for solar system exploration, including how rocket exhaust blows extraterrestrial soil, lunar resource utilization and construction, and enhancing public participation in space. The International Astronomical Union named Asteroid 36329 Philmetzger after him for his efforts to preserve the Apollo heritage sites on the Moon.