Exploring the Psychological Challenges of a Manned Mission to Mars in ‘Space: The Longest Goodbye’
In the vast expanse of space, a crew of astronauts gazes out of their spacecraft window, their eyes fixed on the impossibly blue Earth below. One of them shares a sentiment that resonates deeply, “I really miss the sound of rain and the fresh air that comes with it.” This poignant moment sets the tone for Ido Mizrahy’s thought-provoking documentary, “Space: The Longest Goodbye,” which delves into the psychological challenges faced by astronauts on a mission to Mars.
The documentary begins by highlighting the difficulties that current astronauts encounter in maintaining relationships with their families on Earth while in space. It then transitions to news footage announcing NASA’s ambitious plans for a manned mission to Mars, codenamed Artemis, set to take place within the next decade. The mission’s duration is estimated to be three years, presenting not only physical but also psychological challenges that need to be addressed.
To understand how these challenges can be overcome, the film delves into the historical context of building the first space station and draws upon decades of research in the field. Through interviews with NASA scientists and consultants such as operation psychologist Dr. Al Holland, behavioral scientists Dr. Jack Stuster and Dr. Alexandra Whitmire, and virtual reality pioneer Jacquelyn Ford Morie, the documentary sheds light on the various aspects of psychological preparation for long-duration space missions.
One of the most compelling aspects of the film is its interviews with astronauts who share their emotional experiences. Cady Coleman and her son Jamey reflect on their separation when Coleman embarked on a prolonged mission to space when Jamey was just nine years old. Astronaut Kayla Barron and her husband Tom discuss her decision to apply for the Mars mission and the potential impact on their future family planning. These personal accounts reveal the hidden emotions that astronauts often conceal to maintain their active involvement in the program.
While the documentary covers a wide range of psychological effects associated with space travel and NASA’s efforts to mitigate them, it falls short in exploring alternative approaches. It neglects to delve into the potential role of art therapy, poetry, music, or movies in enhancing the well-being of astronauts. The absence of discussions on the impact of art on human psychology is a missed opportunity that leaves viewers questioning the extent of NASA’s research in this area.
Another intriguing aspect of the documentary is the acknowledgment by Sukjin Han, a crew commander for one of the Mars simulations, that self-sacrifice will be necessary for the success of a manned mission to Mars. Despite this acknowledgment, the film fails to explore this concept further, leaving viewers with unanswered questions about the sacrifices that may be required.
The documentary’s editing and under-lit interviews contribute to a somber atmosphere that pervades the entire film. It presents space exploration as a cold and calculated endeavor, devoid of wonder or joy. This tone, combined with its lack of curiosity, gives the impression that the film serves as both a promotional piece for NASA and a deterrent to any excitement or shared sense of human achievement associated with a mission to Mars.
The film concludes with Coleman expressing her desire to have stayed aboard the space station for another six months, emphasizing her dedication to space exploration. However, the overly serious music accompanying this moment creates an unnecessarily bleak atmosphere, as if being in space were an addiction. This final scene leaves viewers uncertain about the documentary’s intended message – is it a warning, a celebration, or a combination of both?
“Space: The Longest Goodbye” is a complex and contradictory exploration of the psychological challenges faced by astronauts on a mission to Mars. While it offers valuable insights into the preparations undertaken by NASA and the experiences of astronauts and their families, it leaves many threads and themes underdeveloped. The film’s oblique approach to its subject matter leaves viewers with more questions than answers, ultimately rendering it a perplexing and unresolved piece of cinema.
About the Author:
Marya E. Gates is a freelance film and culture writer based in Los Angeles and Chicago. She holds a degree in Comparative Literature from U.C. Berkeley and an MFA in Film Production. Her work has been featured in various publications, including Moviefone, The Playlist, Crooked Marquee, Nerdist, and Vulture.
“Space: The Longest Goodbye” is currently playing in theaters.
Film Credits:
Title: Space: The Longest Goodbye
Release Year: 2024
Duration: 87 minutes
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