Yes, The Aeronauts (2019) is loosely based on the true story of James Glaisher, a meteorologist, and Henry Coxwell, a seasoned balloonist, who set a record for high-altitude flying in 1862. However, the movie takes some significant creative liberties in its story and characterizations.
What is the true story behind the movie The Aeronauts (2019)?
The movie The Aeronauts (2019) is a fictionalized account of the historic ballooning expedition in 1862 by James Glaisher and Henry Coxwell. In real life, Glaisher was a pioneering meteorologist who sought to study the atmosphere at high altitude, while Coxwell was an experienced balloonist who piloted their trip.
During their ascent, the two men faced extreme weather conditions, including cold temperatures and low oxygen levels. They managed to rise to a height of over 37,000 feet, which was a record at the time.
However, the movie version of the story includes a fictional character named Amelia Wren, a daring balloon pilot who accompanies Glaisher on his journey. While Wren is not based on a real person, her inclusion in the story serves to add an element of adventure and excitement to the film, and to highlight the role of women in scientific exploration.