Watch Space Shuttle Columbia: Mission of Hope

Space Shuttle Columbia: Mission of Hope is a stirring documentary film that explores the extraordinary story of the upcoming space mission of Columbia, which was crewed by American astronauts and Israel's first astronaut, Ilan Ramon. The film is directed by Dan Cohen, and the NASA astronaut-turned-filmmaker, Garrett Reisman, is the executive producer.

Space Shuttle Columbia: Mission of Hope follows the true story of Ilan Ramon, the son of Holocaust survivors, who became a fighter pilot and later, a skilled astronaut in the Israeli Air Force. After being selected as part of the space shuttle crew, Ilan requested to carry with him a small Torah scroll that his mother had survived the Holocaust with, and a collection of drawings made by young Jewish children who had perished in the Theresienstadt concentration camp.

The documentary is touching in its portrayal of Ramon's personal journey, as his excitement and anticipation for the mission is palpable. The audience gets a glimpse into Ramon's deepest fears and concerns that arise from leaving his family behind and his own personal doubts about why he was chosen for the mission.

The documentary also features interviews with Rona Ramon, Ilan Ramon's wife, who opens up about her husband's life and accomplishments, including his captivating personality and his dedication to representing the State of Israel. The film includes a touching scene where Rona visits Ilan's school and shares her memories of her husband with the young students.

Along with Rona's insights, the documentary provides a fascinating look into the behind-the-scenes preparation of the mission. The film explores the tensions and challenges within NASA and its complex relationship with its international partners, particularly with Israel. It's interesting to see the interplay between NASA's bureaucracy and Ilan and the Israeli team's determination to go on the historic mission.

The film is equally moving as it documents the deep and meaningful connections that the astronauts made with each other. Several of the astronauts were deeply connected with their Jewish roots, and over the course of the journey, they discussed their shared faith, which illustrated the profound impact of space travel on human perspective and how it can bring people of different backgrounds together.

Space Shuttle Columbia: Mission of Hope builds up to the launch of the space shuttle, and while most viewers will know how the story ends, the film creates a powerful atmosphere of suspense and tension as the countdown begins. The documentary unashamedly celebrates the mission and the crew members, which creates a deep emotional investment in the fate of the shuttle and the astronauts aboard.

Finally, the documentary covers the tragic outcome of the mission, which was the first fatal accident in NASA's efforts since the Challenger disaster in 1986. The documentary provides an honest, yet moving account of the event, with testimony from those who were involved in the rescue and recovery efforts, and from family members who lost loved ones on board.

Overall, Space Shuttle Columbia: Mission of Hope is a poignant film that celebrates the humans behind the mission and provides an intimate look into their motivations, their achievements, and their humanity. The documentary is a testament to Ilan Ramon's legacy and the challenges and the potential risks, but also shows the incredible courage and determination of the crew. It's a film that anyone interested in space or human determination and spirit would not want to miss.