If you're a fan of both detective stories and science fiction, this curated list of films is just for you. These movies blend the thrill of solving mysteries with the awe-inspiring backdrop of other planets, offering a unique cinematic experience. From classic whodunits to modern space operas, each film in this collection promises to take you on an interstellar journey filled with intrigue, suspense, and the unknown.

The Andromeda Strain (1971)
Description: Scientists must solve the mystery of an alien microbe that has killed almost everyone in a small town, making it a scientific detective story.
Fact: The film was directed by Robert Wise, who also directed "The Day the Earth Stood Still."


Dark Star (1974)
Description: This low-budget sci-fi comedy features a crew on a spaceship tasked with destroying unstable planets, but their mission turns into a detective story when they must deal with a malfunctioning bomb.
Fact: John Carpenter directed this film while still in film school, and it helped launch his career.


Alien (1979)
Description: While primarily a horror film, the crew's investigation into the mysterious alien life form aboard their ship involves detective-like elements.
Fact: The film was the first in the Alien franchise and introduced the iconic Xenomorph design by H.R. Giger.


Outland (1981)
Description: Set on a mining colony on Io, one of Jupiter's moons, this film follows a marshal investigating a series of mysterious deaths, blending western and sci-fi elements.
Fact: Sean Connery stars as the marshal, and the film was inspired by "High Noon."


Event Horizon (1997)
Description: A rescue mission to a spaceship that disappeared into a black hole turns into a detective story as the crew uncovers the horrifying truth behind the ship's reappearance.
Fact: The film was initially rated NC-17 due to its graphic content, but was edited to receive an R rating.


Sphere (1998)
Description: A group of scientists investigate a mysterious spacecraft on the ocean floor, which leads to psychological detective work as they confront their deepest fears.
Fact: The film is based on Michael Crichton's novel of the same name, and features a cast including Dustin Hoffman and Sharon Stone.


Solaris (2002)
Description: This film explores the psychological and existential mysteries on a space station orbiting the planet Solaris, where the crew encounters their deepest fears and desires.
Fact: It's a remake of the 1972 Soviet film by Andrei Tarkovsky, which itself was based on Stanislaw Lem's novel.


Moon (2009)
Description: Sam Bell, a lone astronaut on the moon, uncovers a mystery about his identity and the true purpose of his mission, making it a psychological detective story set in space.
Fact: The film features a unique performance by Sam Rockwell, who essentially plays two roles. It was also Duncan Jones' directorial debut.


Europa Report (2013)
Description: A team of astronauts on a mission to Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, must solve the mystery of what happened to their crew members and what lies beneath the moon's icy surface.
Fact: The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of space exploration and the use of found footage style.


The Martian (2015)
Description: While not a traditional detective story, Mark Watney's struggle to survive on Mars involves solving numerous problems, making it a detective story of sorts. His scientific detective work to grow food and communicate with Earth is central to the plot.
Fact: The film was praised for its scientific accuracy, with NASA providing technical advice. It was also nominated for seven Academy Awards.
