Stowaway

The crew of MTS-42, led by Commander Marina Barnett, embarks on a critical mission to Mars. Despite noticing an issue with the ship's engines, mission control assures her of the fuel reserves, prompting her to proceed with the launch.

After launch, the MTS-42 docks with the MTS-Cycler, a space station designed for their nine-month journey. This station, utilizing its upper stage fuel tank as a counterweight, creates an environment mimicking artificial gravity.

While conducting routine checks, Marina discovers Michael Adams, an injured stowaway, hiding aboard the ship. Zoe, leveraging her medical expertise, rushes to provide first aid to Michael, saving his life despite suffering minor injuries herself.

As the crew adjusts to their mission, they face disaster when Michael inadvertently damages the CO2 scrubber, causing a breach in the life support module. This incident puts the crew's survival in jeopardy, forcing them to rethink their resources.

With dwindling oxygen levels, Marina insists David activate his algae experiment, which they hope will provide a sustainable oxygen source. Despite the lack of adequate supplies, the crew understands this could be their last chance to secure long-term survival.

As tensions rise within the confined quarters, Marina contacts mission control for possible solutions. The team discusses a risky option of retrieving oxygen directly from the launch vehicle, but the dangers involved add to the mounting pressure.

In a moment of desperation, David offers Michael a way out, hinting at a sacrifice for the sake of the crew's survival. This difficult conversation weighs heavily on the team, as they grapple with the reality of their dire situation.

Zoe proposes a bold plan to retrieve liquid oxygen by performing an extravehicular activity (EVA) to the launch vehicle. Though risks are involved, her unwavering resolve inspires the crew to take action in hope of survival.

Zoe and David embark on the EVA under hazardous conditions, successfully filling two oxygen tanks essential for their survival. However, a solar flare forces them to make a difficult decision, leaving one of the filled tanks behind.

Upon their return, disaster strikes as Zoe accidentally drops one of the filled tanks, rendering their hard-earned effort worthless. The severity of their situation becomes painfully clear, adding to the crew’s mounting despair.

As the crew faces their ultimate trial, Michael, David, and Zoe volunteer for a final act of bravery to recover the remaining oxygen tank. However, Zoe resolutely insists she will undertake the perilous task herself to save them all.

Zoe successfully retrieves the tank but succumbs to lethal radiation during her return. In her last moments, she gazes at the beauty of Mars against the stars, encapsulating the dream that brought them together on this fateful journey.