Short Wave Space news: Project Hail Mary, Artemis, data centers
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Mar 30, 2026 
Scott Detrow, known space enthusiast and public radio host, and Geoff Brumfiel, NPR science correspondent, join a lively chat. They debate the scientific fidelity of Project Hail Mary. They weigh the case for orbital data centers and their technical hurdles. They close with an update on the Artemis II lunar mission timeline.
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Project Hail Mary Mixes Real Physics With Sci‑Fi Biology
- Project Hail Mary balances accurate physics like time dilation with speculative biology such as water-based microbes living on a star.
- Regina Barber notes the film keeps relativity intact while taking creative license on alien life, making it scientifically engaging.
Host Saw Project Hail Mary Blind And Loved It
- Regina Barber saw Project Hail Mary blind and praised its visuals, humor, and unexpected puppetry.
- She emphasizes she hadn't read the book or seen trailers, which shaped her fresh reaction to the film.
Exoplanet Data Can Change Between Book And Movie
- Some exoplanets referenced in the Project Hail Mary story were candidates when Andy Weir wrote the book but have since been questioned by newer data.
- Scott Detrow points out this reflects how fast exoplanet science can change between book writing and film release.
