Space is the final frontier, but it's also a thrilling backdrop for action-packed adventures. This curated list of astronaut action films offers viewers a chance to experience the adrenaline-pumping excitement of space exploration mixed with high-stakes drama. From battles against alien forces to survival in the harsh vacuum of space, these films are perfect for anyone who loves a good action flick with a cosmic twist.

Moonraker (1979)
Description: James Bond goes to space to stop a villain from using a space station to commit genocide. This film adds a space adventure twist to the classic spy action formula.
Fact: It was the first Bond film to be set in space, featuring a space shuttle and zero-gravity scenes.


Apollo 13 (1995)
Description: Based on the real-life Apollo 13 mission, this film showcases the intense efforts to bring the astronauts home safely after an explosion aboard their spacecraft. It's a true story turned into an action-packed survival tale.
Fact: The film used real NASA footage and had the actual Apollo 13 astronauts as consultants.


Star Trek: First Contact (1996)
Description: The crew of the Enterprise must stop the Borg from changing history by preventing humanity's first contact with an alien species. This film is action-packed with space battles and time-travel elements.
Fact: The film was the first "Star Trek" movie to feature the Borg as the main antagonists.


Event Horizon (1997)
Description: A rescue mission to a spaceship that has mysteriously reappeared after disappearing into a black hole turns into a fight for survival against unknown horrors. The film blends horror with action in space.
Fact: The film's director, Paul W.S. Anderson, wanted to create a space horror film inspired by classics like "Alien" and "The Shining."


Armageddon (1998)
Description: When a massive asteroid threatens Earth, a team of roughneck oil drillers is sent into space to save the planet. This film combines the thrill of space travel with the intensity of a ticking clock scenario, making it a quintessential astronaut action movie.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use real NASA astronauts as extras. Also, the training montage was filmed at the Johnson Space Center in Houston.


The Astronaut's Wife (1999)
Description: After a space mission goes awry, an astronaut's wife must deal with the changes in her husband, blending psychological horror with action elements.
Fact: The film was marketed as a thriller but has elements of action, particularly in the climax.


Mission to Mars (2000)
Description: After a mysterious disaster on Mars, a rescue mission is launched, leading to encounters with alien life. This film combines action with the mystery of space exploration.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use CGI to depict Mars' landscape accurately.


Sunshine (2007)
Description: A team of astronauts is sent to reignite the dying sun, facing numerous challenges and a psychological thriller element. The film's mix of science fiction and action makes it a unique entry in this list.
Fact: The film was inspired by the likes of "2001: A Space Odyssey" and "Alien," focusing on the psychological effects of space travel.


Gravity (2013)
Description: After a space shuttle is destroyed, astronaut Dr. Ryan Stone must survive in space with limited resources. The film's use of zero-gravity effects and the portrayal of isolation in space make it a gripping action thriller.
Fact: Sandra Bullock performed most of her own stunts, including scenes in a rotating set to simulate zero gravity. The film was shot in a way to give viewers a sense of being in space.


The Martian (2015)
Description: Astronaut Mark Watney is left stranded on Mars and must use his ingenuity to survive. This film blends survival drama with action as Watney battles against the odds to signal for rescue.
Fact: The film was praised for its scientific accuracy, with NASA's involvement ensuring the portrayal of space exploration was realistic.
