Topic > Astronomy in Science Fiction - 854

Since the dawn of human civilization, storytellers have used scientific facts to create elaborate, entertaining, and believable stories about the world beyond our own. Often these would explain otherworldly theories. In the more modern perspective, one can see science fiction used more as a form of entertainment to make money rather than as a scientific form taken before its advances. You can see it through the history of science fiction development, current use and futuristic appearance. It's also important to consider the science involved. An important detail to point out is what astronomical science fiction is. There are two parts. One is the fantasy side of the plot, the part that the author imagined might happen. The other side is that of facts. This side is based on scientific evidence or knowledge. An example can be found in Orson Welles' radio broadcast “The War of the Worlds”. In this story, a journalist informs the public of alarming news about extraterrestrial events happening around the world. This broadcast was realistic enough that many listeners believed it was really happening and panicked. What made the plot so believable were some evidence, such as some events on the surface of Mars. Welles also added fictional content, such as aliens described as machine-like beings. This piece of science fiction fits the description because it has a bit of realism, with a touch 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 writing about men going beyond the limits of the atmosphere as early as...... middle of paper......hi dreams of moon landing, has progressed to become one of the most popular types of genres in books, films, and other media. Many of these popular ideas include life on other planets in different galaxies and saving the universe. The importance of this includes the fact that it can inspire scientists to improve the technology our society is surrounded with today. This will continue in the future, whether science fiction is full of technology or not. Works Cited Franklin, H. Bruce. "Science Fiction: Ancient History." Andromeda Rutgers. NpNd Web. November 10, 2013Newitz, Annalee. “Dear science fiction writers: stop being so pessimistic!” Smithsonian magazine. Smithsonian. April 2012. Web. 10 November 2013. “The War of the Worlds”. The Mercury Theater on the air. Columbia Transmission System. New York. October 30, 1938. Radio.