Science in the Movies: The Martian

Friday, April 30, 2021 at 6:00pm – 9:00pm

Shortly after humankind’s first manned mission to Mars, disaster in the form of a dust storm strikes, leaving astronaut Mark Watney stranded on the surface. In order to survive, Watney must use his own creativity and determination to provide food, water, shelter, and even air to survive alone on the Martian soil.

Legendary Sci-Fi producer Ridley Scott delivers a harrowing survival thriller set against the desolate and beautiful Martian backdrop. This movie will have you on the edge of your seat throughout, as Watney and the rescue crew face adversity and near-disaster at every turn. Make sure you have some popcorn ready for the inevitable nail-biting moments!

Join the Museum of Natural Sciences, in collaboration with SCONC, for the April Museum Movie Night: Where Science Meets the Cinema, for our feature movie “The Martian.” Joining us will be Dr. Rachel Smith, Head of the Astronomy & Astrophysics Research Lab and Curator of Meteorites from NCMNS, as well Dr. Marsha Gordon, Professor of Film Studies from NC State University who will examine the science (and the art of filming!) of how people could exist on Mars.  Afterwards, the AV Geek will test your knowledge with our movie trivia. Don’t miss it!

During this event, we’ll host experts from different science backgrounds to separate science fact from fiction after each film. You can ask them questions, share your knowledge, and enhance your movie night experience.

Step 1: Once you’ve registered, determine where to stream or rent your movie (you can use a website such as Reelgood or JustWatch to see where movies are available). This movie is available to rent on YouTube and Amazon Prime Video.

Step 2: At 6pm on April 30, log in to Zoom using the link you received upon registration. We’ll present a short from the AV Geeks’ archive and prepare you for the movie.

Step 3: Let’s start the movie! There will be a countdown so that everyone can synch up and start the movie at the same time on their individual platforms. Join the live chat while you stream. (No spoilers please!)

Step 4: After the film, we’ll have a lively Q&A session with our experts Dr. Rachel Smith, Head of the Astronomy & Astrophysics Research Lab and Curator of Meteorites at NCMNS and Dr. Marsha Gordon, Professor of Film Studies from NCSU, as we take a deeper dive into understanding the film. We will end with our favorite  –  movie trivia!

If you have any questions about this program, please contact Miranda Dowdy at miranda.dowdy@naturalsciences.org.

Registration is required, and though the program is free, your donations help us to bring you more fun programs and events just like this.

Register here