Thursday I attended my second presentation in as many months at the Lunar and Planetary Institute near the Johnson Space Center south of Houston. It was part of their Cosmic Explorations lecture series, titled “Movie Science: Who Cares if It’s Wrong?”, and consisted of a talk by Dr. Seth Shostak, Senior Astronomer and Director at the SETI Institute. He is also host of the Big Picture Science radio show and podcast.
Dr. Shostak gave an entertaining presentation on scientific accuracy in film, from the perspective of a scientist asked to provide guidance on Sci-Fi scripts. Provided and often ignored. We were given humorous insight on the creative process, where Hollywood gets it right sometimes but often not. It was ultimately left up to the audience to decide if it ultimately matters. Of course with In the Shadow of Ares, and the sequel, we’ve taken the position that it does.
It is anticipated that the series will pick up again starting in the fall. Those living in the Greater Houston area and interested in attending should check the LPI website in August/September.