Andy Weir, the author behind the acclaimed “The Martian,” has once again struck gold with his science fiction storytelling. Now, fans have the chance to win a copy of the special movie tie-in edition of his latest novel, “Project Hail Mary,” before the film hits theaters in 2026.
Weir’s Sci-Fi Success Story
Andy Weir has proven himself a master of crafting compelling science fiction – stories that are both scientifically plausible and deeply human. His 2011 novel, “The Martian,” a thrilling tale of survival against incredible odds on Mars, was transformed into a blockbuster movie starring Matt Damon and directed by Ridley Scott. Weir’s second book, “Artemis,” a lunar heist story, is currently in development with Disney’s 20th Century Studios. Now, anticipation is high for the film adaptation of his 2021 novel, “Project Hail Mary,” set to be released by Amazon MGM Studios on March 20, 2026, and starring Ryan Gosling.
A Cosmic Collaboration
Ballantine Books, in collaboration with Space.com, is offering five advanced copies of “Project Hail Mary’s” movie tie-in edition, slated for release on December 2, 2025. This special edition promises to offer a glimpse into the upcoming film, directed by the renowned filmmaking duo Phil Lord & Christopher Miller (“The Lego Movie,” “Spider-Verse Franchise”) and featuring a screenplay by Drew Goddard (“Cloverfield,” “Cabin in the Woods”).
The Plot: Earth’s Last Hope
“Project Hail Mary” follows Dr. Ryland Grace (played by Ryan Gosling), a middle-school science teacher who wakes up alone on a spacecraft with amnesia, tasked with a desperate mission to save Earth from an impending catastrophe. The sun is dimming, threatening to trigger a new ice age, and Grace is humanity’s last hope. As he journeys across 11.9 light-years to the Tau Ceti star system, he encounters Rocky, a mysterious alien whose homeworld is facing a similar plight. Together, they must overcome incredible challenges and uncover the cosmic puzzle behind their mutual peril.
Enter the Sweepstakes
To enter the giveaway for a chance to win a copy of the special movie tie-in edition, simply leave a comment on Space.com’s Facebook, Twitter, or BlueSky posts announcing the sweepstakes. Tell us what you’re most excited to see when “Project Hail Mary” hits theaters in 2026.
The sweepstakes runs from November 5, 2025, to November 12, 2025, at 2 p.m. ET. Each household can only enter once. Winners will be announced on Space.com’s social media pages on November 12, 2025, at 4 p.m. ET.
Please note that this sweepstakes is only open to residents of the United States.
A Star-Studded Cast
Alongside Ryan Gosling, the film boasts a talented ensemble cast including Oscar nominee Sandra Hüller (“Anatomy of a Fall”), Milana Vayntrub (“This Is Us,” “Werewolves Within”), Bastian Antonio Fuentes (“Jurassic World Dominion”), Isla McRae (“The Christmas Quest”), and James Wright (“How to Train A Princess”).
Good luck to everyone participating in this out-of-this-world literary giveaway!
Official Sweepstakes Terms and Conditions
The sweepstakes opens at 5 p.m. ET on November 5, 2025, and closes at 2 p.m. ET on November 12, 2025. Late or incomplete entries will be disqualified.
Eligibility: Open to all residents of the US (excluding Rhode Island, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, U.S. military installations in foreign countries, or any other U.S. territory where prohibited or restricted by law), aged 18 years and over, except employees of Future Plc and its group of companies (“Future”) and Ballantine Books (“Sponsor”).
Entry Limit: Entries are limited to one per household, regardless of the entry method. Automated entries are not valid.
Prizes: Five winners will each receive one copy of the “Project Hail Mary” novel.
Winner Selection: The winner will be drawn randomly from all valid entries.
Notification: Winners will be notified via social media post within 28 days of the closing date. Winners must supply details of a US delivery address.
Alternative Winner: If a winner does not respond within 28 days, an alternative winner will be drawn.
Prize Delivery: Ballantine Books will deliver the prize.
Substitution: Future and Sponsor reserve the right to substitute any product with an equivalent value alternative.
Non-Transferable & Non-Refundable: The prize is non-transferable and non-refundable. There is no cash alternative.
No Purchase Required: No purchase is necessary to enter.
Tax Implications: Winners may be required to complete an IRS Form 1099 and may be responsible for any applicable taxes related to the prize.
The film adaptation of “Project Hail Mary” promises to be an epic space adventure, and this giveaway provides a unique opportunity to dive into the story before its arrival on the big screen. The narrative’s blend of scientific accuracy and a compelling human story—amplified by a talented cast and creative team—positions this film as one to watch.
