I.S.S.

The International Space Station (I.S.S.) emerges from the remnants of the Cold War, representing a collaboration between former rivals, the United States and Russia. This monumental achievement in engineering serves as a hub for groundbreaking research, symbolizing the potential for human cooperation in the pursuit of knowledge.

As excitement fills the air, astronauts Dr. Kira Foster and Christian Campbell prepare for their journey aboard the Soyuz Rocket to the I.S.S. They receive encouragement from Mission Control, highlighting their accomplishments and the significance of their mission in the grander scheme of space exploration.

Kira and Christian arrive at the I.S.S. and are warmly welcomed by their crew members. For Kira, this moment is the realization of a dream, as she is introduced to Gordon Barrett, Weronika 'Nika' Vetrov, and the Pulov brothers, who eagerly gather for a celebratory photograph.

Kira begins to adapt to her new environment in space, gaining valuable insights from Nika, who has spent 50 days in orbit. Nika's advice about the importance of teamwork resonates with Kira, shaping her mindset as she learns to navigate the challenges of her new life.

Gordon provides Kira with an enlightening tour of the station, explaining the quirks associated with sleeping in zero gravity. His lighthearted approach offers Kira comfort as she prepares to adjust to the unique dynamics that come with space travel.

Gordon offers Kira the opportunity to communicate with family back on Earth, but she surprisingly declines. This moment underscores her isolation and the emotional burdens that accompany life in space, leading to a shared understanding between her and Gordon.

As dinner approaches, the crew bonds over laughter and shared stories, creating a celebratory atmosphere. However, the mood shifts as Alexey becomes emotional over a nostalgic song, revealing the underlying complexities of their identities amidst the camaraderie.

Kira experiences the stunning views of Earth from the station's observatory, a moment that elicits a smile as she contemplates the beauty of her surroundings. This experience encapsulates the profound connection they have to their planet from the vastness of space.

A sudden disruption occurs when the crew wakes to find their communication systems offline, severing ties with Earth. As panic ensues, Kira is faced with a distressing scene in her research area where the mice turn on one another, marking a harrowing descent into turmoil.

Amidst their chaos, Kira witnesses explosions ravaging the Earth, signaling an unfolding global catastrophe. The events quickly escalate, amplifying tensions as news of hostilities between the United States and Russia reaches them.

With the threat of war looming, the crew grapples with their new reality. Gordon is burdened with the command to secure the station, prompting questions about morality and the greater good as confusion and fear envelops them in the vastness of space.

Time is running out as Gordon volunteers for a dangerous spacewalk to repair a damaged antenna, his actions spurred by the escalating crisis. The crew's growing mistrust creates an atmosphere brimming with anxiety as they face the prospect of survival.

As tensions rise, Kira and Gordon share their personal struggles, fostering deeper connections while revealing vulnerabilities. This moment highlights the impact of isolation on human relationships as they confront their fears of the unknown.

With rising distrust leading to critical choices, Alexey severs communication at a critical moment during the chaos. This decision causes a schism among the crew, as the layers of camaraderie unravel, revealing the uncertain nature of their alliances.

The surviving crew members confront the weight of their decisions amidst incomprehensible loss and threats of war. Kira’s introspection raises a sobering question about their future, pressing the team to reconcile their emotional scars as they navigate the perilous abyss of space.