Space Travelism In Rocket Ship X-M

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On 20 July, 1969 Americans landed the first man on the moon; officially ending the space race between the former Soviet Union and the United States. This however was not completed over night. The conflict between the two super powers spanned over two decades and was not only about interplanetary travel but the pride that was to follow. Science fiction played a major role in inspiring the western population of what was to come of space travel and our future. Films and novels about space exploration tended to attempt to remain more realistic in their content and the way that space travel was depicted. One of the most highly impressionable films of this era was Rocket Ship X-M.

Rocket Ship X-M is set to take off from White Sand Missile Range …show more content…

with themes of a desire to develop technologically. In the film, many philosophical points are brought to light about our civilization and if the progress is worth the risk of self-destruction. However, what this film is best remembered for is its striking accuracy in the scenes depicting space travel. In the moments prior to the launching of the ship a press conference is held where the members of the crew go in to detail about the jettisoning of the ship, fuel composition, and methods of reentering the atmosphere. This acted as milestone in science fiction, rather than stories that were based solely on unsupported ideas, Rocket Ship X-M attempted to show the audience what it might truly be like to witness a true space craft take-off, travel, and land. In addition to pushing the boundaries of scientific research and development the film also places a female in a led role as a key scientist, who throughout the film seems to inspire the other crew members due to her strong and independent personality.

In many instances, it can be claimed that science fiction existed before the cold war. However, much of what is considered science fiction in retrospect edged on the side of unexplained magic with not true probable solution or impacts on society. These stories include Metropolis (1927), War of the Worlds (novel 1898), and Frankenstein

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