5Q's w/James Tralie "Maven" Director

#1: Can you describe your movie and why somebody should see it in less than 140 characters?

The upper atmosphere of Mars holds secrets about a mysterious phenomenon that affects radio here on Earth.

#2: What do you want the Borrego Springs Film Festival audience to know about your film that isn’t obvious from its title?

This film was created based on real research that NASA's MAVEN spacecraft is currently conducting on Mars. Scientists are able to use data from the mission to understand a phenomenon that we experience on a daily basis here on Earth.

#3: What is your movie making background? Tell us about yourself.

I am a producer and animator at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. I have been creating films and animations for almost a decade now, and have screened at over 100 film festivals around the globe. I seek to explain complex discoveries to the public through my work.

#4: What was the biggest lesson learned in getting your film made?

I learned all about the complex science involved in the research. I read primary source science papers to properly and accurately explain the research in a fun and engaging way to the general public.

#5: What does the future hold for your film and you?

I plan to continue explaining complex scientific concepts to the public at NASA. I would like to continue creating engaging videos and animations that excite the public about science and education.