Top 10 Astronaut Thrillers to Watch

Description: A rescue crew is sent to investigate the disappearance of the spaceship Event Horizon, only to find that it has returned with something malevolent from another dimension. This film explores the psychological horror of space travel.

Fact: The film was initially conceived as a much darker and more graphic horror, but was toned down for release. It has since gained a cult following for its eerie atmosphere and intense scenes.

Description: A psychologist is sent to investigate the mental health of the crew aboard a space station orbiting the planet Solaris, where they encounter mysterious phenomena that challenge their perceptions of reality.

Fact: This is a remake of the 1972 Soviet film by Andrei Tarkovsky, which itself was based on Stanisław Lem's novel. The film explores deep philosophical themes about identity and consciousness.

Description: A team of astronauts is sent to reignite the dying sun with a bomb, but their mission is jeopardized by psychological breakdowns and an unexpected encounter. The film blends psychological thriller elements with the vastness of space.

Fact: The film's director, Danny Boyle, used real scientific theories to craft the plot, and the movie features a cameo by Cillian Murphy, who also starred in Boyle's "28 Days Later."

Description: Astronaut Sam Bell is nearing the end of his three-year stint on the moon when he starts experiencing strange phenomena, leading to revelations about his mission and his own identity.

Fact: Duncan Jones, the director, is the son of David Bowie, who also contributed to the film's soundtrack. The film's low budget was cleverly used to enhance its intimate, introspective feel.

Description: Two crew members awaken on an abandoned spacecraft with no memory of their mission or their identities. As they explore, they uncover terrifying secrets about their ship and themselves.

Fact: The film's title refers to a fictional disease that causes paranoia, delusions, and loss of memory, which is central to the plot. It was shot in Germany, adding to its eerie, isolated feel.

Description: After a space shuttle is destroyed, astronaut Dr. Ryan Stone must navigate her way back to Earth with the help of veteran astronaut Matt Kowalski. This film captures the isolation and terror of being stranded in space, making it a quintessential astronaut thriller.

Fact: The film was shot in a way to simulate zero gravity, with Sandra Bullock and George Clooney performing in harnesses and on wires. It also won seven Academy Awards, including Best Director for Alfonso Cuarón.

Description: This found-footage film presents a fictional account of a secret Apollo mission that uncovers something sinister on the moon. It's a chilling exploration of what might happen when humanity's reach exceeds its grasp.

Fact: Despite its fictional nature, the film was marketed as a "true story," leading to some confusion among viewers. It was also one of the first films to use the found footage style in a space setting.

Description: A crew of international astronauts embarks on a privately funded mission to explore Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, where they encounter unexpected challenges and discoveries.

Fact: The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of space travel and its use of actual scientific theories about Europa. It was also noted for its found-footage style, which added to the film's authenticity.

Description: Astronaut Mark Watney is left behind on Mars after his crew presumes him dead. His struggle for survival and ingenuity in the face of overwhelming odds make this film a thrilling tale of human endurance and scientific problem-solving.

Fact: The film was praised for its scientific accuracy, with NASA's involvement ensuring the portrayal of space travel was as realistic as possible. The potatoes grown by Watney were actually grown on set.

Description: Aboard the International Space Station, the crew discovers a rapidly evolving life form from Mars, which soon becomes a deadly threat. This film combines elements of horror and sci-fi, making it a gripping astronaut thriller.

Fact: The creature in the film was designed by Weta Workshop, known for their work on "The Lord of the Rings" and "Avatar." The film also features a nod to Ridley Scott's "Alien."