This two part series will see Francis boldly set out to go where no other social media star has been…
Francis steps inside some of the world’s leading space agencies, getting a rare look behind the scenes. Along the way, he’ll face a series of intense physical and mental trials on his journey to space.
Francis Bourgeois:
“People know that I’m obsessed with trains. But rockets and space travel was a very early infatuation. Now, as the Artemis Programme plans to return people to the moon and beyond, I’m going to face the question that has fizzed around my head since childhood – could I become an astronaut?”
From enduring crucial G-Force training under the guidance of British astronaut Tim Peake, to performing critical tests in zero gravity, to impressing top brass at Axiom Space’s astronaut training programme — a leader in commercial spaceflight — Francis is pushing himself through a personal trial of physical and mental endurance.
His mission takes him across the United States, as he immerses himself in the demanding world of astronaut training and space exploration. Along the way, he confronts the realities of human spaceflight — the strain, the science, and the psychological toll — raising an essential question: does he have what it takes to leave Earth behind?
Jack Kennedy, Creative Director of Shine TV & Zeppotron, added: “At just 23, Francis is chasing a dream most only dare to imagine — becoming an astronaut. With space exploration no longer a distant dream and fast becoming a part of our everyday reality, it’s inspiring to follow Francis’ relentless enthusiasm to realise his dream.”
Jonah Weston, Commissioning Editor Science and Adventure for Channel 4, said: “Francis’s enthusiasm for all things engineering is totally infectious, so following him on his dream to become an astronaut was an instant must-do. I think audiences will be thrilled as he embarks on his mission to boldly go where no influencer has gone before.”
Francis In Space (w/t) is a Shine TV (a Banijay UK company) production for Channel 4. It was commissioned by Jonah Weston, Commissioning Editor Science and Adventure for Channel 4. Directed by Jonathan Levene, executive producers are Jack Kennedy and Jim Hickey. Banijay Rights will handle international distribution.
