NASA“s New Horizons mission has fundamentally changed our understanding of Pluto, leading astronomers to revise their textbooks and inspiring a new novel. In the latest episode of the Fiction Science podcast, space scientist Les Johnson discusses how he adapted the notes of the late science fiction author Ben Bova into a novel that accurately depicts Pluto.
After Bova”s passing in 2020, Johnson was responsible for transforming Bova”s unfinished notes into a novel meant to conclude Bova”s Grand Tour series of science fiction stories. Initially, Bova envisioned Pluto as a rocky world with minimal ice. However, upon sharing his notes with Alan Stern, the principal investigator of the New Horizons mission, Johnson learned that this depiction was inaccurate. Stern remarked, “We never found anything on Pluto that was anything like that.” This prompted Johnson to revise the scientific concepts underlying the story.
The resulting novel, titled “Pluto,” stands out as one of the first fictional works to offer a realistic portrayal of the dwarf planet”s environment, featuring elements such as the orange-hued ice sheet of Sputnik Planitia and the dark, dirty spot on Charon, Pluto”s largest moon. Johnson”s background as a NASA researcher and his experience as an author of both nonfiction and science fiction contributed to the authenticity of the narrative.
Set in the 22nd century, the story imagines a future where humans begin merging with machines, receiving data from Proxima Centauri b. The plot ignites with the discovery of an alien artifact buried beneath the icy surface of Sputnik Planitia, leading to tensions among scientists and military leaders from the United States Space Force, China, and Russia. Additionally, a romantic subplot develops between two main characters, adding depth to the narrative.
Johnson aims to explore the complexities of human nature as humanity expands into the cosmos. He notes, “As we expand into the solar system, we won”t necessarily be leaving behind our humanity, both the good and the bad.” He envisions a future where rivalries and personal challenges accompany space travelers on their journeys.
Considering the role of military organizations in space exploration, Johnson speculates that entities like the Space Force will continue to be significant players in the 22nd century. “I can imagine that in 100 years, maybe 200 years, the U.S. may not be the same, but I envision it”ll still be around,” he states, while also predicting that other nations will emerge as space powers.
In “Pluto,” Johnson also addresses contemporary issues such as the potential consequences of merging human consciousness with artificial intelligence. One character, who has experienced a traumatic accident, has his brain integrated with AI, raising ethical questions about the nature of humanity and decision-making in a future where such technologies exist.
Johnson expresses concern about the current trend of virtual reality addiction and its impact on younger generations. He believes this societal issue could have far-reaching implications in the future. “I really see how much our younger generation are seduced by online gaming,” he says, emphasizing the need to address the desire for real-world experiences.
When asked about the classification of Pluto, Johnson is comfortable with designating it as a dwarf planet. He believes this classification is appropriate given the discovery of similar objects in the Kuiper Belt. “I”m excited by all these other dwarf planets that we see beyond Pluto,” he remarks.
Ultimately, Johnson hopes that readers of “Pluto” will be filled with curiosity about the universe. “I want readers to finish the book and think, “Wow, what is out there?”” He encourages readers to advocate for increased funding for space exploration to satisfy that curiosity.
Johnson has retired from his role as chief technologist at NASA”s Marshall Space Flight Center but continues to engage in the space industry as the CEO of Infinite Frontiers Consulting. His latest novel, “Crisis at Proxima,” co-authored with Travis S. Taylor, has recently been released in paperback. He is also working on another novel titled “Monster Hunter: The Alien Files,” in collaboration with Larry Correia, alongside an upcoming nonfiction book on space exploration.
The Fiction Science podcast, featuring discussions on science fiction and its implications, is available on platforms such as Apple, Spotify, Player.fm, Pocket Casts, and Podchaser. Listeners are encouraged to rate and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes.
