In films, why do space ships make a 'whooosh' sound everytime they fly past.... in space?

Answer 1

Theatrical sound effects to show action. In reality, there would be no sound, none what so ever.

Answer 2

The banking of a spaceship would be a realistic manuver as if you are going forward and then turned, inertia and the laws of motion would make a turn uncomfortable to the people on board. So a flat plane right or left turn would throw people against the wall, while a banking ship would force them to a comfortable spot on the floor. (granted in movies it may be exagerated.) I saw 2001 in a full panavison theater (the randolph in philadelphia). The quiet space shots added to the mystery of the movie and to me more thrilling.

Note when the shuttle lifts off, soon after it rolls to inverted to reach orbit, so the inetia forces of the arc of climb force the pilots into the seat so they dont have a roller coaster feeling.

Answer 3

Everyone got it right so far. It's just for effect. There was a completely quiet version of outer space in the Stanley Kubrick movie "2001: A Space Odyssey" in the late Sixties, but the audiences did not like it. It made for what most people called a "boring" movie that they couldn't understand. [of course, there were other reasons for that reaction, as well...]

So later, in the first "Star Wars", "whooshing" sounds were used, and the audience reaction was much more favorable.

Answer 4

I think it's because of the ignorance of the general public. That's why audiences were bored with 2001 A Space Odyssey. The movie industry must cater to the masses. Unfortunately, not all of them are as smart as you and me.

Answer 5

There is only one movie that tries to recreate the environment of space in the most realistic way. This is Stanely Kubrik's "2001:A Space Odyssey". If you watch it you will know why they add the whoooosh ;)

Answer 6

Isn't it funny. We all know that space is a vacuum and sound doesn't travel in vacuum. But normal humans can't imagine a soundless entity to survive. How funny, you pointed out a good point. I can visualize how boring a deaf man's life could be. Will there be enjoyment in their life. If there is to what degree it would be. Thanks for thought provoking question.

Answer 7

Because they think it sounds good. In fact, since space is a vacuum there would be no sound but that would not make a great action movie.

Answer 8

For the same reason they 'bank' (tilt to the side) when they turn? It is an effect known only in 'aircraft' not space craft.......the audience expects needs something to demonstrate movement and speed.

Answer 9

For dramatic effect. The movies are not good at depicting reality.

Answer 10

for audio visual effect