Space has always fascinated people. It’s vast, unknown, and full of danger. That’s why space action movies have become a favorite for film lovers around the world. They mix thrilling battles, brave heroes, high-tech gadgets, and stunning visuals. Whether set in distant galaxies or on the edge of our solar system, these films take audiences on unforgettable adventures.
Some space action movies focus on wars between alien races. Others explore the challenges of survival far from Earth. What they all share is the excitement of the unknown. These movies entertain, inspire, and sometimes even warn us about the future.
In this list, we will look at 17 of the greatest space action movies ever made. Each one changed the genre in its own way. Whether you’re new to the genre or a longtime fan, these are films you’ll want to see.
1. Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Many fans believe this is the best Star Wars film ever made. Directed by Irvin Kershner, this movie has everything—epic space battles, emotional depth, and a legendary twist. The battle on the ice planet Hoth, the duel between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, and the famous line “I am your father” changed movie history forever. The visual effects were ahead of their time and still hold up today.
2. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
Marvel took a bold step with this space action-comedy. Director James Gunn turned lesser-known comic characters into fan favorites. The film is full of heart, humor, and explosive action. Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot bring both laughs and emotion. The colorful worlds and powerful soundtrack make this a truly unique space movie.
3. Interstellar (2014)
Christopher Nolan’s space epic is both emotional and thrilling. While it leans heavily on science, the film still delivers great action. The story follows astronauts traveling through a wormhole to find a new home for humanity. The visuals are stunning, and the soundtrack by Hans Zimmer adds to the tension. The docking scene and the black hole sequence are unforgettable.
4. Aliens (1986)
James Cameron’s sequel to the horror film Alien added a heavy dose of action. Ellen Ripley, played by Sigourney Weaver, returns to a colony overrun by deadly xenomorphs. The film blends military sci-fi with horror, giving us one of the most intense space action experiences ever. Ripley’s battle with the alien queen is legendary.
5. The Fifth Element (1997)
Directed by Luc Besson, this film is full of wild imagination. It mixes sci-fi, action, and comedy in a bright, colorful world. Bruce Willis plays Korben Dallas, a taxi driver who ends up saving the universe. Milla Jovovich’s Leeloo and Gary Oldman’s villain add even more fun. With flying cars and space hotels, this film is a sci-fi joyride.
6. Star Trek (2009)
J.J. Abrams rebooted the classic franchise with energy and style. The film shows how Captain Kirk, Spock, and the rest of the crew of the USS Enterprise came together. The action scenes are fast and exciting. The special effects modernized the series without losing its heart. It pleased old fans and won new ones.
7. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)
This film stands out in the Star Wars universe. It tells the story of how the rebels stole the Death Star plans. Unlike other Star Wars films, this one feels more like a war movie. The final act—featuring a massive space battle and the sacrifice of the main characters—is powerful and unforgettable. Darth Vader’s hallway scene is one of the best in the saga.
8. Gravity (2013)
Directed by Alfonso Cuarón, Gravity is a survival thriller in space. Sandra Bullock plays an astronaut stranded after debris destroys her shuttle. The film uses long takes, beautiful visuals, and a gripping score to keep viewers on edge. It’s not about aliens or war, but the fight to survive in the harsh environment of space makes it incredibly intense.
9. Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977)
The film that started it all. George Lucas introduced audiences to a galaxy far, far away. It’s a classic tale of good vs. evil, filled with lightsaber duels, space battles, and memorable characters. Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, and Darth Vader became icons. It revolutionized visual effects and set the standard for space action movies.
10. The Martian (2015)
Matt Damon stars as an astronaut left behind on Mars. Directed by Ridley Scott, this movie mixes science with humor and suspense. While more grounded than other space action films, it still delivers thrilling moments. The rescue mission, the storm scenes, and Damon’s fight to survive alone make this a must-watch.
11. Avatar (2009)
James Cameron returned to space action with this visually groundbreaking film. Set on the alien moon of Pandora, the film combines action, nature, and science fiction. The flying scenes, the battle for the planet, and the story of human greed vs. native life all add up to a thrilling experience. It became the highest-grossing film of all time for a reason.
12. Serenity (2005)
Based on the TV show Firefly, Serenity continues the story of a band of rebels aboard a spaceship. Directed by Joss Whedon, the film balances action, drama, and sharp dialogue. The crew faces a deadly government agent and a swarm of space cannibals called Reavers. It’s a satisfying space adventure full of clever writing and emotional weight.
13. Event Horizon (1997)
This movie is part horror, part action. A rescue team investigates a lost spaceship that has returned from a mysterious trip. What they find is terrifying. While not for everyone, Event Horizon’s mix of space and supernatural horror keeps viewers hooked. The film’s dark, gothic design and shocking moments make it stand out.
14. Apollo 13 (1995)
Based on true events, this film is a tense look at the dangers of space travel. Tom Hanks stars as an astronaut in a failed moon mission. With systems failing and time running out, the team must find a way to survive. Director Ron Howard brings real-world space action to life with strong performances and gripping suspense.
15. Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005)
This prequel has some of the best action scenes in the Star Wars series. Anakin Skywalker’s fall to the dark side leads to epic battles across planets. The duel between Anakin and Obi-Wan Kenobi is emotional and thrilling. The film ties the prequels to the original trilogy in a powerful way.
16. Starship Troopers (1997)
This satirical space war movie is both fun and thought-provoking. Directed by Paul Verhoeven, it follows soldiers fighting giant alien bugs. It’s full of over-the-top action and hidden messages about propaganda and war. The battles are gory and intense, and the movie has become a cult classic.
17. Armageddon (1998)
Directed by Michael Bay, this film is pure blockbuster entertainment. A giant asteroid is heading for Earth, and a team of oil drillers must destroy it in space. The movie is loud, fast, and emotional. While not scientifically accurate, it delivers plenty of space action and suspense. The cast, which includes Bruce Willis and Ben Affleck, brings humor and heart.
Final Thoughts
Space action movies take us on journeys far beyond our world. They show us what it might be like to explore the stars, fight alien enemies, or just survive in the vast unknown. The 17 movies on this list are the best examples of the genre. Some are full of heart. Others are dark and thrilling. But all of them offer unforgettable space adventures.
Whether you’re in the mood for space battles, thrilling rescues, or strange new worlds, these films have something for everyone. They remind us why space continues to capture our imagination—and why space action will always have a place in cinema.
