Scientific Inaccuracies in ‘The Expanse’: Addressing Key Plot Elements
The critically acclaimed science fiction series The Expanse has captivated audiences with its compelling storytelling and political intrigue. However, as with many large-scale productions, it is not without scientific inaccuracies. These inaccuracies can detract from the immersive experience, particularly for those with a background in science.
Ring Wormholes: A Clarification on Three-Dimensional Structures
One of the most egregious scientific inaccuracies in the series concerns the depiction of ring wormholes. These are depicted as two-dimensional constructs, which is a significant departure from their actual nature as three-dimensional, spherical objects, similar to black holes. The series presents ring wormholes as flat and geometric, which is a deviation from known scientific principles. In reality, wormholes are three-dimensional structures that can potentially connect two distant points in the universe. The show's portrayal is akin to depicting a giant space pencil floating around creating holes in spacetime, which is a clear example of scientific blasphemy.
The Protomolecule and Its Deviant Behaviors
The protomolecule, a central element in the series, is another example of a highly problematic scientific concept. The protomolecule violates numerous established physical laws. It behaves in ways that are inconsistent with known chemistry, biology, and physics. While the series is right to introduce complex and innovative elements, the protomolecule's actions defy the basic principles that govern the universe. This adherence to the laws of physics would not have been necessary for the show to be science fiction; however, it is essential for maintaining the integrity of scientific portrayal. The protomolecule's disregard for established rules can leave viewers puzzled and frustrated.
Sound and Space: The Vacuum’s Reality
The vacuum of space is the ultimate anechoic environment, meaning it does not carry sound. However, the series often shows characters holding conversations in space, with voices carried by the silences in the background. This is a significant scientific inaccuracy, as sound requires a medium to propagate, and the vacuum of space is devoid of such a medium. Additionally, the lack of air resistance is another common but incorrect depiction, as objects in space do experience resistance, albeit from different sources such as solar radiation and interstellar dust. The depiction of smooth, unobstructed travel in space without any debris also diverges from reality, as space is not entirely empty but is filled with micro-meteoroids and other debris that could cause significant damage to spacecraft.
The Challenges of Propulsion System in Space
Another aspect that receives criticism is the propulsion system used in the series. Characters in the show frequently rely on thrusters to maintain movement, which can come across as inconsistent. In reality, spacecraft in the absence of gravitational forces use minimal thrust, and any movement (orbital, rotational, or translational) would require careful adjustments to maintain a stable trajectory. The scenes in which objects such as a garden from the Rosinante move around without any apparent restraints are perplexing. In space, objects would not remain in place unless secured, as the absence of air resistance means that any loose item would float freely.
Arboghast Ship and Venus Probes
The Arboghast ship's probe deployment on Venus adds another layer of complexity. In the series, the Arboghast ship drops probes straight down into the Erosian-impact crater on Venus, a depiction that does not accurately reflect the orbital mechanics involved. Venus is approximately the same size as Earth, and the Arboghast would be orbiting Venus at a velocity of around 17,000 mph in a Low Venus Orbit. Dropping probes straight down implies the ship is geostationary, which is highly improbable due to the length of Venusian days and the retrograde rotation. The probes would have to be launched at a precise trajectory to match the orbital mechanics, taking into account the atmospheric drag and the rotation of the planet.
Conclusion
The Expanse is a compelling series that often excels in accurately portraying the laws of physics within the context of a fictional universe. Nonetheless, certain elements do suffer from notable scientific inaccuracies, which can detract from the overall believability and immersion. By acknowledging these inconsistencies, the show’s creators can work towards refining future episodes and enhancing the scientific accuracy in their storytelling.