The SETI Institute supports a project by London-based filmmaker and SETI Institute Designer of Experiences Dr. Nelly Ben Hayoun-Stépanian. The project, “Doppelgängers3” is a film and research initiative premiering at SXSW 2024. It combines insights from neuroscience, quantum physics, and space exploration to challenge conventional narratives of space colonization.
The film spotlights the importance of acknowledging collective trauma and imagines a utopian community on the moon. Dr. Franck Marchis, Senior Astronomer and Director of Unistellar Citizen Science at the SETI Institute, is a scientific advisor to the project. The initiative aims to spark conversations in the space science community.
SETI Institute’s Innovative Approach to Space Exploration
The SETI Institute, known for its dedication to understanding the origins and prevalence of life and intelligence in the universe, is venturing into new territories. The institute supports a novel project by London-based filmmaker and SETI Institute Designer of Experiences Dr. Nelly Ben Hayoun-Stépanian. This project, which is a unique blend of intergenerational trauma, neuroscience, quantum physics, and space exploration, aims to redefine our understanding of our place in the cosmos.
Doppelgängers3: A New Narrative for Space Colonization
The project, titled Doppelgängers3, is a feature film and research project set to premiere at SXSW 2024. It challenges the conventional narratives of space colonization by integrating diverse perspectives. The film will be presented at the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2024, where it will highlight its unique blend of science, culture, and storytelling within the decolonial space and space culture sessions.
Acknowledging Collective Trauma in Neuropsychology Research
Doppelgängers3 emphasizes the importance of acknowledging collective trauma and its impacts, a growing field in neuropsychology research. The film weaves together the stories of three individuals from different geographical locations, imagining a utopian community on the moon that learns from the past and aspires to a future where diversity and plurality are celebrated.
Reconsidering Space Exploration Through Inclusivity and Ethical Considerations
The film poses critical questions about these visions, urging a reconsideration of space exploration through a lens that values inclusivity, ethical considerations, and transnational thinking. Dr. Franck Marchis, Senior Astronomer and Director of Unistellar Citizen Science at the SETI Institute and a scientific advisor to Doppelgängers3, emphasized the project’s approach. He noted that it transcends traditional documentaries by blending neuroscience, quantum physics, and space science with a human touch, fostering new dialogues and collaborations while adding a sprinkle of fun and humor.
Doppelgängers3: A Movement to Decolonize the Space Sector
The creators of Doppelgängers3 hope that the project will not just be a film but a movement to decolonize the space sector and imagine new futures that honor our shared humanity and diversity. The project, with its world premiere at SXSW 2024 in the Feature Documentary, Vision Category, invites audiences to engage with bold ideas and creative visions that challenge the status quo. For more information and updates on Doppelgängers3, visit www.doppelgangers.space.
