Biosphere 2
& Spaceship Earth

February 1 2024

Thirty years ago, a group of scientists and freethinkers built an ark in the desert. I was always fascinated by this grandios project without knowing much about it. Now I have learned that there is a feature-length documentary about it. So I’ve updated this post, which I first published ten years ago, and added the film. Highly recommended.

Spaceship Earth is a documentary released in 2020 that delves into the fascinating story of the Biosphere 2 experiment. Directed by Matt Wolf, the film offers a thought-provoking exploration of human ambition, ecological consciousness, and the drive for sustainability. Set against the backdrop of the 1991 Biosphere 2 mission, where eight individuals embarked on a two-year experiment living in a closed ecological system, the documentary examines the complex dynamics within the group, the challenges they faced, and the enduring legacy of their bold endeavor. Through archival footage, interviews, and expert commentary, Spaceship Earth invites viewers to ponder the profound connections between humanity and the environment, ultimately prompting reflection on our collective responsibility to safeguard our planet for future generations.


Spaceship Earth, 2020 documentary