Answer:The "Seven Minutes of Terror" refers to the entry, descent, and landing phase of NASA's Mars Science Laboratory mission, specifically for the Curiosity rover. This period is crucial and tense because of the complexity of the landing process and the communication delay between Earth and Mars.
When the video creators use close-up shots of the Curiosity team members commenting on the unfolding events, it serves several purposes:
Emotional Connection: By showing the faces and expressions of the team members, the video aims to establish an emotional connection between the audience and the people responsible for the mission. Viewers can see the tension, excitement, and dedication of the individuals involved, making the mission more relatable and engaging.
Human Element: Highlighting the team members humanizes the mission. It reminds viewers that space exploration involves real people with expertise, passion, and emotions. This can enhance public interest and support for space exploration endeavors.
Storytelling: The close-up shots contribute to the storytelling aspect of the video. By focusing on the reactions of the team members, the video builds a narrative arc, creating a sense of suspense, drama, and ultimately, triumph or relief when the mission is successful.
Expert Commentary: Having close-ups of team members while they comment on the unfolding events can emphasize their expertise and authority. It reinforces the idea that these individuals are knowledgeable and deeply involved in the mission, adding credibility to their statements.
Visual Impact: Close-up shots are visually impactful and can convey a wide range of emotions. They capture nuances, facial expressions, and body language that might be lost in wider shots, providing a more intimate and compelling viewing experience.
In essence, the use of close-up shots in videos like "Seven Minutes of Terror" is a storytelling and cinematic technique to engage and involve the audience emotionally, emphasizing the human and dramatic aspects of a high-stakes scientific mission.