Heroic Efforts and Moral Dilemmas: The Mars Mission’s Decision to Rescuing Mark Watney

In the The Martian book and film, the crew aboard the spacecraft Hermes faces a significant moral dilemma when they learn that their colleague Mark Watney is stranded on Mars. Ultimately, the decision made by the crew, led by Captain Melissa Lewis, highlights themes of camaraderie, sacrifice, and the human spirit in the face of adversity. This article delves into the tension between following orders and deploying a daring mission to save Watney’s life, examining the key role played by the Purnell Maneuver.

Moral Dilemma and the Decision to Save

The crew of Hermes initially grapples with a crucial decision: whether to turn back or continue their journey home. When they realize that Mark Watney is alive and has been surviving on Mars, this moral dilemma intensifies. Captain Melissa Lewis leads the team in analyzing the situation and ultimately decides to take on a significant risk. The realization that they could perform a gravity assist maneuver to return to Mars in time to rescue Watney proves to be the turning point.

The Purnell Maneuver: A Daring Decision

The crew, led by Captain Lewis, decides to execute the Purnell Maneuver, a daring plan that involves changing course, picking up supplies, and performing an Earth gravity assist to swing back around Mars and rescue Watney. The Purnell Maneuver is a complex and high-risk operation that involves a series of precise maneuvers. The plan is highly intricate and requires meticulous coordination, including input from NASA and other external parties.

The Purnell Maneuver is a bold step that symbolizes the crew's commitment to their mission and their teammate. It is a sacrifice that goes against the initial plan and the directives from NASA. The crew acknowledges the potential risks, but their loyalty and teamwork drive them to take the initiative. However, this risky maneuver ultimately plays a crucial role in the rescue mission.

The Rich Purnell Maneuver and the “Crashlander” Plan

While the Purnell Maneuver is the maneuver chosen by Captain Lewis, there is another option that is considered. Teddy Sanders, the Chief of NASA, suggests another plan known as the “crashlander,” which involves sending a probe with limited resources to survive and hoping for the best. This plan, however, is deemed too risky by Teddy, who believes the Purnell Maneuver offers a better chance of success.

The Purnell Maneuver involves a series of complex maneuvers, including changing course, picking up supplies, and swinging back around Mars to rescue Watney. This plan requires precise calculations and coordination, making it a risky but ultimately more viable option. The decision to execute this maneuver is a testament to the crew's courage and their commitment to their mission.

The Critical Decision-Making and Internal Conflict

There is an internal conflict within the crew regarding the Purnell Maneuver. Mitch Henderson, the flight director, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the information about the Purnell Maneuver reaches the right individuals. His actions, though initially covert, eventually come to light. Teddy Sanders accuses Mitch of initiating the Purnell Maneuver without his direct approval, and Mitchell’s response is a profound one, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the ethical dilemma faced by the crew.

In a tense exchange, Teddy says, “If I can ever prove you did it, I’ll find a way to fire you for it.’” Mitchell, realizing the gravity of the situation, responds with a statement that encapsulates the essence of the crew’s determination and resolve. He says, “Sure. But if I wasn’t willing to take risks to save lives, I’d… well… I guess I’d be you.” This line encapsulates the spirit of the crew's decision and sets the stage for the daring rescue mission.

The Human Spirit and Collaboration

The collaboration between the crew, NASA, and various external parties to devise a rescue plan exemplifies the human spirit in the face of adversity. The decision to save Mark Watney is a testament to the crew's loyalty and teamwork. The Purnell Maneuver and the subsequent rescue mission are a clinch of the film and its themes of camaraderie and sacrifice. The narrative emphasizes the importance of working together and the impact that individual actions can have on a mission.

Overall, the decision to execute the Purnell Maneuver and rescue Mark Watney is a pivotal moment in the narrative. It highlights the complex decision-making process, the moral dilemmas faced by the crew, and the crucial role played by the Purnell Maneuver in the successful rescue mission. The human spirit and the power of teamwork are central to this story, and the crew's actions serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration and courage in the face of adversity.