Challenging the Myths: How Media Normalizes Space Colonization

Abstract

The advancement of space technology has sparked excitement from the public about space travel. Revisiting the moon, colonizing mars, and even taking casual trips to the upper atmosphere of Earth have gained traction. While there is a rise in scientific skepticism and overall public mistrust, space tourism is largely accepted as a norm, with little discussion on ethics or sustainability. Awareness of the negative aspects of space travel is well-studied, and change starts from mass mobilization but glorification of space in media prevents such action. Sci-fi movies and books contain a constant theme that the Earth is dying, and outer space is the only option. Repeated exposure to media ultimately normalizes the audience to such concepts. To shift people’s positive attitudes from space travel to sustainability, media can create media that romanticizes Earth as a worthy cause of saving.