Watch a science fiction film about people going to Mars. How does the film handle the science? Can people breathe the atmosphere? Are the low surface gravity and atmospheric pressure correctly portrayed? Do the astronauts have access to water?

Mars has a very thin atmosphere compared to Earth. The Martian atmosphere is composed mostly of carbon dioxide (about 95.3%), with trace amounts of nitrogen, argon, and very small amounts of oxygen and water vapor. This means that humans cannot breathe the atmosphere on Mars without a space suit or a controlled environment that provides breathable air.

In science fiction films, it's important to check if the representation of the Martian atmosphere aligns with these facts. Many films might use artistic license to simplify or alter these details, but accurate portrayals typically show astronauts using space suits or living in habitats with life support systems. These systems would mimic Earth's atmosphere, providing oxygen and removing carbon dioxide.

If characters in the film are seen walking around without helmets or are shown as comfortable in the open Martian air, this is scientifically inaccurate. Always look for how the film handles the need for a controlled breathing environment on Mars.

Gravity on Mars is about 0.38 times that of Earth's gravity. This means that if you weigh 100 kg on Earth, you would weigh only 38 kg on Mars. The lower gravity would have noticeable effects on human movement, such as the ability to jump higher and carry heavier loads with less effort.

When analyzing a science fiction film, observe how characters move and interact with their environment. In accurate depictions, you might see astronauts taking longer, bounding strides or objects being lifted with more ease compared to Earth. This lower gravity also affects muscle and bone density over time, requiring astronauts to exercise regularly to maintain their health.

If the film does not show any differences in how characters move or if everything appears identical to movements on Earth, then the depiction of Mars' gravity might be inaccurate.

The atmospheric pressure on Mars is less than 1% of that on Earth. This means that even if the air were breathable, the low pressure would prevent humans from surviving without protective gear. The pressure is roughly equivalent to the conditions found at 30 kilometers (19 miles) above Earth's surface.

In science fiction films about Mars, accurate portrayals will show characters wearing space suits whenever they are outside their habitats. These suits are essential to maintain sufficient pressure around the body and support life.

If astronauts in the film are seen working outside in regular clothing, or if their habitat doesn't include airlocks to maintain pressure, this is a clear sign that the atmospheric pressure on Mars is not being accurately depicted. Make sure the film acknowledges the need for pressure suits and habitats designed to handle low atmospheric pressure.

Water on Mars exists primarily as ice, located at the poles and in subsurface sediments. Liquid water is scarce due to the low atmospheric pressure and temperatures, so finding and accessing it is a significant challenge.

In a scientifically accurate film, you would expect to see astronauts devising methods to locate, extract, and purify water. This might include melting ice or using advanced technology to extract water vapor from the atmosphere. Films that touch on these challenges help highlight the real difficulties of ensuring a reliable water supply on Mars.

If the film shows characters easily accessing liquid water without any elaborate processes or technology, this is scientifically inaccurate. Always look for how the film portrays the practicalities of water extraction and usage on Mars, as these are critical aspects of any real-life mission.