The Midnight Swim

In February 2049, a catastrophic radioactive meltdown devastates Earth, leading to mass evacuations. Most of the remaining population flees via helicopters, leaving behind those unable to escape, including scientist Augustine Lofthouse.

Augustine, who is terminally ill, remains alone at the Barbeau Observatory. He spends his days taking medications and running dialysis while monitoring exploratory space missions for signs of life.

While searching mission logs, Augustine learns that the Aether mission is still operational. This discovery ignites a spark of hope and a sense of urgency in him to contact the mission and warn them about Earth's dire situation.

The narrative flashes back to Augustine's younger days, where he presents his research on habitable planets. During this presentation, he meets Jean, a pivotal figure in his life who questions the legitimacy of his work.

On the Aether mission, astronaut Sully experiences a haunting nightmare of being abandoned on K-23. The crew struggles with communication failures as they seek to establish a link with Earth.

Augustine discovers a young girl hiding in the observatory, later named Iris. Despite her silence, Augustine forms a connection with her and is determined to protect her as they navigate their treacherous environment.

Augustine and Iris embark on a perilous journey to find a stronger antenna to reach the Aether spacecraft. With only their survival skills and limited supplies, they venture into the harsh arctic landscape.

While traversing the tundra, Augustine discovers a crashed aircraft with a dying pilot inside. Faced with an impossible decision, he ultimately fulfills the man's wish for a merciful end.

As the Aether crew faces external threats in uncharted space, they grapple with a sudden loss of communications. This malfunction threatens their safety and complicates their mission.

During a critical spacewalk to repair the spacecraft, one crew member, Maya, is severely injured by debris. Despite the crew's frantic efforts to save her, she tragically succumbs to her injuries, leaving the crew devastated.

In a heart-wrenching revelation, Sully communicates with Augustine, revealing she's his daughter Iris Sullivan. This connection deepens Augustine's resolve to assist her in the midst of chaos.

Mitchell, torn between duty and family, volunteers for a risky re-entry to Earth. This decision leads to a poignant farewell as he and Sanchez leave the crew, prioritizing their loved ones over the mission.

Augustine and Iris are caught in an intense icy storm, leading Augustine to momentarily lose sight of her. In his desperate search, he experiences a vision of Jean, showcasing his emotional turmoil and longing.

As Gustav is close to death, he manages to send final communications to Sully, urging her to flee to the habitable planet. This crucial information paves the way for her and the surviving crew members to attempt a new course.

With newfound determination, Sully and Gordon construct a course for K-23. Their mission for survival and the hope for a habitable future culminates in a final push against all odds.