Astronomy in Science Fiction

Since early human civilization, storytellers have been using science fact in order to create elaborate, entertaining, believable stories about the world outside our own. Often these would explain other-worldly theories. In the more modern perspective, one can see science fiction used more as a form of money making entertainment rather than the scientific form it took before its advancements. You can see this through the history of the development of the science fiction, present day use, and the futuristic aspect. It is also important to look at the science involved.

One important detail to point out is what astronomical science fiction is. There are two parts. One is the fantasy side of the storyline- the part that the author imagined could happen. The other side is the factual. This side is based on scientific evidence or knowledge. One example can be found in Orson Welles’s radio broadcast of “The War of the Worlds.” In this tale, a reporter informs the audience of alarming news about extraterrestrial happenings going on around the world. This broadcast was realistic enough that many listeners believed it was truly happening and a panic struck. What made the story line so believable was some of the evidence, such as certain occurrences on Mar’s surface. Welles also added fictional content, such as the aliens being described as machine-like beings. This piece of science fiction fits the description because it has a bit of realism, with a twist of fantasy.

There is a long history of astronomy in science fiction. Some of the earliest can be seen with the Greeks, with their tales of gods representing the parts of the universe they could see. Other cultures began writings of men going beyond the limits of the atmosphere as early a...

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...h the dreams of landing on the moon, it has progressed to become one of the most appreciated types of genres in books, movies, and other media. Many of these popular ideas include life on other planets in different galaxies and the saving of the universe. The importance of this includes the fact that it can inspire scientists to improve the technology that our society today is surrounded by. This will continue in the future whether or not the science fiction is full of technology or not.

Works Cited

Franklin, H. Bruce. “Scienc Fiction: The Early History.” Andromeda Rutgers. N.p. N.d. Web. 10 November 2013

Newitz, Annalee. “Dear Science Fiction Writers: Stop Being So Pessimistic!” Smithsonian Magazine. Smithsonian. April 2012. Web. 10 November 2013.

“The War of Worlds.” The Mercury Theater on Air. Columbia Broadcasting System. New York. 30 October 1938. Radio.