Scientific Inaccuracies in The Expanse: A Closer Look

The Expanse is a captivating science fiction series that has won the hearts of many viewers with its intricate plot and well-drawn characters. However, like any creative work, it is not entirely accurate in terms of scientific details. This article will delve into some of the scientific inaccuracies present in the show and how they impact the viewer's experience.

Sound in Space

One of the most notorious scientific inaccuracies in The Expanse is the sound that is heard in space. Space is a vacuum, meaning that there is no medium for sound waves to travel through. Therefore, sound cannot be heard in Earth’s orbit, on the International Space Station, or anywhere else in space. However, the show frequently portrays characters conversing in outer space as if it were possible to hear each other. This is an egregious error that detracts from the realism and believability of the series.

Lack of Air Resistance

Air resistance, or drag, is a crucial component of movement in our atmosphere. On Earth, objects moving through air slow down due to friction. However, in space, objects move at constant speeds unless acted upon by external forces. This is because there is virtually no air to slow them down. The lack of air resistance in The Expanse can make the movement of spacecraft and other objects appear unnatural and unrealistic. For instance, when a ship is maneuvering, one would expect it to slow down due to the lack of drag, but in the show, it maintains a smooth and constant motion, which is not representative of space travel.

Lack of Space Debris

Another significant inaccuracy in The Expanse is the complete absence of space debris. In reality, space is a crowded place filled with various forms of debris, such as defunct satellites, discarded rocket parts, and space junk. These objects can cause serious damage if they collide with operational spacecraft. The show's portrayal of vast, empty space free of debris is not only inaccurate but also neglects a crucial aspect of space travel and exploration.

Lack of Attention to Proper Propulsion

A key source of inaccuracy in The Expanse is the lack of proper attention to the principles of propulsion. In the show, spacecraft often seem to rely on constant thruster firing to maintain motion or perform maneuvers. This ignores the fact that in space, an object in motion tends to remain in motion unless acted upon by an external force. The thrusters are needed only for acceleration or deceleration, not for maintaining a steady course. Additionally, the show frequently shows items floating freely onboard the ships, such as the “garden” on the Rosinante, which would not survive a single maneuver due to the lack of air resistance to keep objects in place.

Access to Control Algorithms

While many inaccuracies in The Expanse pertain to the physics of space, some are more specific to the show’s design. One example is the access to ship control algorithms through a panel in the airlock. While this might seem convenient for the characters, it is highly impractical in the real world. The airlock is a critical safety component of any spacecraft, and access to sensitive control systems in such an area would be both dangerous and unwise. Moreover, such algorithms could theoretically be accessed through more secure and practical means within the ship itself.

The Expanse has many other inaccuracies, and while some are more fundamental than others, they all contribute to a less than perfect portrayal of space and space travel. Nonetheless, the show remains a thrilling and entertaining series, making these inaccuracies an interesting subject of discussion among fans and science enthusiasts alike.