From Dean to NASA, Goddard Film Set for Hopkinton Screening
FRANKLIN – A group of Dean students made a short film about the beginnings of American space aeronautics, and the film was shown at NASA.
The group from Dean College was led by a former student who wanted to create a story about Robert Goddard and his 20th century work. This film captured the foundations of rocket science led by Goddard in Auburn, MA. Not only did he become a pioneer, but his work transitioned into many projects NASA conducted, including Saturn V as well as many Apollo missions to the Moon. One of the producers, Maximilian Kent, was an important part of making this mission a reality.
In Kent’s own words, it was great to make a movie about a scientist where multimedia served as an inspiration for NASA to recognize work encouraging communities to become interested in space. “This was the motivation that I want to create things like this. I want to continue making stories that are not being told.”
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Robert Goddard made space exploration possible as he launched the first liquid-fueled rocket on March 16, 1926. A scientific breakthrough was born leading to more lunar expeditions from Aunt Effie’s farm. Goddard’s legacy gave way for U.S. President John F. Kennedy to have one goal of sending people to the Moon by the 1960s. Kennedy’s historical influence carries over to today, revolutionizing the New Space Race.
Moon Man showcases many contributions and challenges endured to redefine history that would enhance the future of space flight. This event allowed research to introduce future rocket launches by NASA going into the Artemis program. NASA wanted to prove a theory of putting people on the Moon by repeatedly experimenting through trial and error. The goal is to now reintroduce astronauts back onto the natural satellite for the first time in over 50 years since Apollo 17.
“It was amazing. I wish I was there to see the film, but it was extraordinary. It was exciting,” said Paul Champlin, director of Moon Man and production manager of Hopkinton Center for the Arts. “There was a lot of stress in getting everything done in time for the opening
premiere.”
Before Moon Man began filming, there was a multimedia initiative called Countdown to Launch. It was a journalism platform that catered to space communication and even partnered with The Dean Daily. The idea happened in fall 2025 with many projects including Space Center, which is similar to ESPN Game Day. When everyone returned from winter break, production immediately started rehearsing, and covered critical scenes over a three-month period, spanning from January-March 2026.
The film process endured challenging conditions in meeting the deadline. Being in cold weather was nearly unavoidable despite fitting as much imagery as possible. Reenacting certain moments honored the contribution Goddard made. Behind the scenes technology became integral to ensuring that nothing happened unexpectedly. There were moments when timing became a key element in progressing the shoot, especially the rocket scene recreation at Pakachoag Golf Course.
“We had a lot of challenges, but also being students helped us say we can learn, work the challenges ourselves,” said Kent. “Every producer wishes they had more time to work with.”
The importance of NASA honoring the 100th anniversary of rocketry became a historic first where audiences can learn more about this pastime to reflect upon.
An appearance happened on September 19 at the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center showcasing science and education.
Moon Man’s premiere will be held at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts on October 22 at 7:30pm.
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