Science Fiction Media Representations of Exoplanets: Portrayals of Changing Astronomical Discoveries

TL;DR

This paper investigates how science fiction media portrayals of exoplanets reflect real scientific discoveries, revealing that SF adapts quickly to incorporate new scientific findings, which has implications for science communication.

Contribution

It introduces a Bayesian network analysis of SF exoplanet portrayals, demonstrating how science fiction reflects evolving exoplanet science in its narratives.

Findings

SF exoplanets based on real discoveries are less Earth-like

SF incorporates rapidly changing scientific knowledge

Statistical evidence links scientific discoveries to SF portrayals

Abstract

Interest in science fiction's (SF's) potential science communication use is hindered by concerns about SF misrepresenting science. This study addresses these concerns by asking how SF media reflects scientific findings in exoplanet science. A database of SF exoplanets was analysed using a Bayesian network to find interconnected interactions between planetary characterisation features and literary data. Results reveal SF exoplanets designed after the discovery of real exoplanets are less Earth-like, providing statistical evidence that SF incorporates rapidly-evolving science. Understanding SF's portrayal of science is crucial for its potential use in science communication.