22 Best Space Movies For Kids To Watch

Kids Watching Space Movies

Image: Midjourney/ MomJunction Design Team

Space is an intriguing and fascinating subject, especially for children, and space movies for kids are both entertaining and educational. The new findings of various elements in different galaxies are frequently reported, and each finding reveals new knowledge and adds to the puzzle of various mysteries. Movies enhance the experience of learning about outer space by presenting them as mysteries and as places of exploration and discovery. They also ignite children’s imagination and make them curious about the universe beyond our planet. This post contains a list of the top children’s space movies to keep young viewers engaged and delighted. Scroll down.

In This Article

Key Pointers

  • The facts, concepts, and stories of space are intriguing for young minds.
  • Space movies can help children find answers to their questions about space and add colors to their imagination.
  • Fly me to the moon, The IMAX space collection, and Planet 52 are some of the many interesting space movies that can hold a child’s interest.

22 Space Movies For Kids

1. Muppets From Space

Muppets From Space, space movie for kids
Source:Amazon

Gonzo, referred to as ‘Whatever’ by everybody around him, gets a message from an alien race through his bowl of Kap’n Alphabet cereal. Communication with a pair of cosmic knowledge fish reveals that he has connections with an alien. Agent Barker convinces him to join C.O.V.N.E.T, a top-secret national security facility, that investigates outer space life. Now the Muppets need to rescue Gonzo from C.O.V.N.E.T and go to Cape Doom. This film provides laughter and introduces themes of friendship and self-discovery, making it a great choice for family movie nights.

Recommended Age: 5+ years
Available on: Amazon Prime

2. Flight Of The Navigator

Flight Of The Navigator, space movie for kids
Source:Buena Vista Pictures Distribution/ Wikipedia

In this 1980s movie, a 12-year-old, David Freeman is abducted by a spaceship and returns after eight years, without any changes in him even as his parents grow old and his younger brother is now 16 years old. When Dr. Louis Faraday from NASAiAcronym for National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the US government agency involved in aeronautics and space research. tries to forcefully keep David with him as his brain is a powerhouse of space information, David secretly boards a spaceship and becomes its navigator.

Recommended Age: 6+ years

Available on: Amazon Prime, Disney +

3. Fly Me To The Moon

Fly Me To The Moon, space movie for kids
Fly Me to the Moon is a CGI-animatediA technique where scenes or effects are created with the help of a computer software. comedy movie that holds a fascination for children. It tells the story of three adventurous houseflies, who stowaway aboard Apollo 11 and travel to the Moon, thus creating history.

The story tells how the houseflies (now spaceflies!) use their small size to their advantage and help fix an electrical problem in the spacecraft. Eventually, the flies come to know of a plan to sabotage the space mission. The trio set out to save the mission, the astronauts, and themselves.

Children will enjoy the adorably animated flies and their various antics. The story even highlights the achievements of the first human landing on the Moon in an educational and exciting way.

Recommended Age: 6+ years

Available on: Amazon and Netflix

4. Space Chimps

Space Chimps, space movie for kids

This super-fun animated film tells the story of three chimpanzees sent on a space voyage to explore the possibility of alien life. The film’s protagonist is Ham III, the fictional great-grandson of Ham, the first chimp voyager in space. Ham and his mates land themselves on a planet only to realize there is more to it than meets the eye. The three chimp astronauts help save the planet’s inhabitants from a ruthless dictator while also completing their mission.

This adventurous story is a one-of-its-kind experience, which keeps us glued to the screen. Children will love the three chimps’ honest attempts to discover and save a new planet. This movie is also a tribute to the real Ham.

Recommended Age: 6+ years

Available on: Amazon

5. Mars Needs Moms

Mars Needs Moms, space movie for kids

The movie, loosely based on Berkeley Breathed’s book Mars Needs Moms, tells the story of a boy named Milo who boards a Martian spaceship to save his mother, who has been kidnapped by aliens. When on Mars, Milo befriends another human, Gribble, whose mom was also taken by the Martians when he was a baby. Together, they go on an expedition to rescue Milo’s mother before it is too late.

The film is beautifully animated with amazing voice acting. Children will love the fascinating plot of a child exploring space alone and meeting aliens along the way.

Recommended Age: 7+ years

Available on: Amazon and Disney+

6. The IMAX Space Collection

The IMAX Space Collection, space movie for kids

This series of IMAXiAn acronym for Image Maximum and a system that showcases high-resolution images on a large screen. documentaries take us through the cosmos and give us glimpses of our Earth. Featuring brilliant videos, such as “Blue Planet,””Destiny in Space,””The Dream is Alive,””Mission to MIR,” and “Hail Columbia,” it is an absolute treat to watch for both children and adults.

These documentaries are a treasure trove for space enthusiasts as they give us insights into space stations, space programs, and planets and their orbits. The dynamic cinematography and narration nudge children to unravel the universe’s mysteries.

Recommended Age: 9+ years

Available on: Amazon

7. Earth To Echo

Earth To Echo, space movie for kids

This American sci-fi adventure film is shot in a found-footage style and revolves around four neighborhood friends who accidentally stumble upon a telekineticiThe ability to move or modify objects without physical interaction. , robotic alien called Echo. During their course to save Echo, they are tracked by dangerous forces who want to hunt them down.

The film features a heart-warming tale of friendship and perseverance. Children will also love the adorable little alien Echo.

Recommended Age: 7+ years

Available on: Amazon and Netflix

protip_icon Did you know?
Lightyear, an intergalacticiA term used to describe the space within galaxies. sci-fi adventure, is another interesting movie for your child to watch.

8.Buzz Lightyear of Star Command: The Adventure Begins

Buzz Lightyear of Star Command, space movie for kids
Source:IMDb

After Buzz Lightyear loses his partner in a battle, he refuses to work with anyone else. But he gets a Star Command recruit, Princess Mira Nova from Tangea, as his new partner. Meanwhile, the evil emperor Zurg’s men develop a multi-weapon robotic arm. He sends his robotic army to capture the Little Green Men’s (L.G.M) powerful device called the Uni-Mind. Zurg steals it and corrupts it into a Mega Ray to control everyone. Watch the movie to know how Buzz Lightyear and his partners rescue LGM. But you might want to be around as there is violence and death, which could be disturbing for the child.

Recommended Age: 6+ years

Available on: Amazon Prime, Disney+

9. Zathura: A Space Adventure

Zathura, space movie for kids

Zathura revolves around two brothers who accidentally stumble upon an old and tattered magical board game. They, along with their house and family members, are eventually teleported into outer space. To return home safely, the siblings need to finish playing the board game.

The movie is about growing up together, family goals, and life lessons set within its charming space story. This movie has its share of humor, making it a great film for adults and children alike.

Recommended Age: 11+ years

Available on: Amazon and Netflix

10. Escape From Planet Earth

Escape From Planet Earth, space movie for kids

The movie is about a group of aliens from the planet Baab led by an astronaut named Scorch. The aliens land on Earth only to realize they are in hostile territory. Humans capture the aliens to study them, but the aliens from Baab are smart. Scorch and his team escape only to find humans in their hot pursuit.

The movie has a simple plot, which is easy for even the youngest audience members to understand. Overall, the space movie for kids is funny, well animated, and features well-designed characters.

Recommended Age: 5+ years

Available on: Amazon and Netflix

11. Gravity

Gravity, space movie for kids
Source:Amazon

The Space Shuttle Explorer is on a mission with veteran astronaut Matt Kowalski and first-timer Dr. Ryan Stone on board. Hit by space debrisiNon-functional man-made objects in space or Earth’s orbit. , they get stranded in space. There seems to be no escape, but there is no giving up for Dr. Stone. There might be a few scenes that are not kid-friendly. Parental guidance is recommended.

Recommended Age: 12+ years

Available on: Amazon Prime

Greg Maier, a devoted movie lover from Mexico, shares his experience of watching Gravity. He says, “For me, the film is more of a visual spectacle than anything as the story is a simple one of survival and the instinctual will of the human spirit to live. I don’t believe the film is meant to have strong political or religious undertones, though that’s up for individual interpretation; I just couldn’t see any. That doesn’t discredit the film to me in any way because, for what it is, an extremely realistic space thriller, Gravity couldn’t be much better. I will say that there are a couple of moments that I didn’t love, an exaggerated explosion sequence inside the International Space Station and the film’s overly dramatic ending, but I have to say that I left the theater very much a fan of this landmark film (i).”

12. Planet 51

Planet 51, space movie for kids

What happens when humans become aliens? The movie depicts a role reversal where humans are the aliens visiting a strange planet. The story begins with Captain Chuck Baker landing on Planet 51, which he believes is unoccupied. But, the astronaut is greeted by a super-intelligent civilization, who now wants to capture the human.

The movie is an absolute delight to watch for kids, while the animations and dubbing of the characters are a significant bonus.

Recommended Age: 5+ years

Available on: Amazon and Netflix

protip_icon Quick tip
Get an astronaut or alien costume for your child, grab some snacks, and have a movie marathon watching every movie listed here!

13. Wall-E

Wall-E, space movie for kids

This movie is one of Pixar’s masterpieces. This story revolves around a trash-compacting robot named Wall-E who has to clean Earth. Humans no longer live on Earth and have departed onboard a ship called Axiom. Later, they send a reconnaissanceiMethods designed to procure information about enemies in the military. robot called Eve to Earth. Wall-E meets Eve, and the two travel to Axiom, where they team up with the Captain of the Axiom to make Earth home again. But their journey home is not easy, for they have to battle a rogue robot.

The movie won the Academy Award for the Best Animated Feature in 2008. Children will love the adorable robot and his funny yet emotional relationship with Eve. The space movie for kids also imparts subtle lessons on the importance of environmental protection.

Recommended Age: 4+ years

Available on:  Amazon and Disney+

14. Spark: A Space Tail

Spark, space movie for kids

The animated movie tells the story of Spark, a monkey, and his planet,which has been destroyed by a vicious general Zhong whose aim is to take over the entire universe. Zhong tries to use his powerful weapon to conquer other planets. The movie shows how Spark and his friends prevent Zhong from destroying the universe.

Though it is a simple story, the presentation, animations, and characters make this a good watch. Children will love Spark and his various antics through this space movie.

Recommended Age: 4+ years

Available on: Amazon

15. Guardians Of The Galaxy

Guardians Of The Galaxy, space movie for kids

The movie is based on the comic book of the same name and tells the story of a group of ragtagiA group of people or objects that are not well-organized. spacefaring superheroes unofficially known as the Guardians of the Galaxy. The group is led by Peter, a human. Peter and alien friends Gamora, Drax, Groot, and Rocket set out to defeat the evil alien warlordiA powerful military commander who controls a group of people. named Ronan. The Guardians need to find a way to prevent Ronan from laying his hands on the super-powerful gem known as Power Stone that would grant him destructible powers. The language is strong at places, therefore, parents discretion is recommended.

Recommended Age: 12+ years

Available on: Amazon and Disney+

16. Space Buddies

Space Buddies, space movie for kids

The space buddies bring back the 1990s era theme of golden retrievers achieving remarkable things. The movie is about a group of puppies that follow their owner friend on a school’s field trip to a space center. The puppies climb into a new rocket and start playing imaginary astronauts when the rocket suddenly blasts off. What forms the story’s crux is how these pups launch into space, destined for Moon.

The space movie is a delightful furry adventure for all ages. The graphics and the theme of the film are loved by one and all.

Recommended Age: 4+ years

Available on: Amazon

17. Space Jam

Space Jam, space movie for kids

Space Jam is one of the most lovable space movies of its time. The story is about aliens trying to abduct several famous cartoon characters from the Looney Tunes, including Bug Bunny. However, the Looney Tunes characters are smart and challenge the aliens to a match of basketball. The aliens agree to leave, but before being beaten in a basketball match. Thus, to save the Looney Tunes, Bugs Bunny approaches the basketball superstar Michael Jordan, who eventually plays on behalf of the Looney Tunes.

This space movie for kids has a simple plot, which is easy for most children to understand. The soundtrack, the Looney Tunes characters, and Michael Jordan’s presence make it a popular and watchable film.

Recommended Age: 5+ years

Available on: Amazon and Netflix

18. Apollo 11

Apollo 11, space movie for kids

The documentary features archived real footage of Apollo 11iAmerican space flight that landed the first humans on the moon. landing on the Moon. It is great for children who love watching real footage of space. It comprises the spellbinding, actual videos of Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins, Buzz Aldrin, and the Apollo 11 landing on the Moon. Viewers learn of the trials, challenges, and triumphs faced by the team during the mission.

The documentary is entirely composed of footage, which is 50 years old, thus making this space movie a fascinating one. Children of all age groups will love this documentary film.

Recommended Age: 5+ years

Available on: Amazon and Netflix

19. Apollo 13

Apollo 13, space movie for kids

Any space movie list is incomplete without the mention of Apollo 13. The movie is based on the eponymous aborted Apollo 13 lunar space mission of 1970. The movie tells the story of the near-fatal space mission, its astronauts, their families, and how the team at NASA race against time to save their best astronauts.

The movie has several fascinating visuals and nail-biting moments. It even has the right mix of fun, comedy, and compassion, which children will love.

Recommended Age: 10+ years

Available on: Amazon andNetflix

20. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial

The Extra-Terrestrial, space movie for kids

The film was released in 1982 and has become an icon since then. E.T. tells the story of a lovable alien who is left behind on Earth. Later, he befriends a young boy, and together, they set out on a roller-coaster adventure ride. The movie has some amazing special effects for its time, and they are still amazing today.

The movie tells a heart-rending tale of loyalty and friendship that will be loved and appreciated by children of all ages.

Recommended Age: 7+ years

Available on: Amazon and Netflix

21. The Iron Giant

The Iron Giant Movie

Set in the 1950s, this animated film is about a boy named Hogarth Hughes who finds a massive robot from outer space that crash-lands on Earth. Known as Iron Giant, the robot has lost his memory and decides to befriend Hogarth. The two grow close to each other and form a strong bond. However, the government learns about the giant’s existence and considers it as a threat.

This movie is about compassion and friendship. It can move your heart with its innocent and sincere story.

Recommended Age: 8+ years

Available on: Amazon Prime

22. The Cat from Outer Space

The Cat from Outer Space

In an alien spacecraft, a strange cat-like creature named Zunar-J-5/9 Doric-4-7 arrives with special powers. The US government captures the spaceship and learns that the alien needs a special collar to repair his spaceship and return home. They then help the cat to create the necessary device and send it back home.

It is a fun adventure with some heartwarming characters and a humorous tale.

Recommended Age: General audience

Available on: Amazon Prime

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do space movies for children help spark their curiosity about science and the universe?

Space movies for children present complex concepts in an engaging and entertaining way. They also depict several scientific notions in a pictorial format or in a manner that makes them intriguing. These features of such movies can help children develop a lifelong love of learning about the world around them.

2. Can space movies for children help teach important lessons?

Yes, space movies can guide and teach children valuable lessons about the importance of working together as a team and how to solve problems creatively and innovatively. These movies can also inspire children to be curious about the world and explore new ideas and possibilities.

3. What tips can parents use to help their kids get the most out of space movies for kids?

Select age-appropriate movies that children can comprehend. Check the movie ratings to ensure the content is kid-friendly. Before watching the movie, provide some basic information about space, planets, astronauts, rockets, or other relevant concepts using fun facts about space for kids to stir your child’s interest in the movie. While watching the movie, ask open-ended questions to stimulate your child’s thinking and curiosity. After the movie, discuss the science behind the movie and differentiate between fiction and reality. Additionally, explore additional educational resources together to expand your knowledge.

4. What special effects and visuals are used in space movies for kids?

Space movies for children often employ various special effects, such as CGI or computer-generated imagery, to create captivating visual experiences. These effects build realistic and fantastical elements that make the space environment in the movies immersive. Space movies for children also feature imaginative and colorful spaceship designs that ignite the imagination in young minds. Furthermore, the depiction of stars, planets, galaxies, and other celestial bodies is enhanced with vibrant colors to make them visually engaging.

5. How do space movies help instill a sense of adventure in children?

Space movies often depict astronauts discovering new worlds and encountering extraordinary phenomena, which stirs a child’s curiosity and encourages them to ask questions. These movies involve characters who use scientific knowledge and critical thinking skills to overcome challenges. This can inspire children to develop an interest in the STEM concept and motivate children to learn more about space exploration, space travel, and the scientific principles behind it.

6. What are the common elements of space movies for kids?

Space movies for children often revolve around exciting and adventurous journeys that emphasize the importance of friendship and teamwork. They often feature imaginative and visually stunning settings that inspire children to imagine and look for possibilities outside the Earth’s boundaries. They may include elements of bravery, resilience, perseverance, and self-belief. These movies can teach children the value of critical thinking and creativity to overcome obstacles.

Space movies for kids can be fascinating, entertaining, and educational. Children love movies and learning new things from sci-fi movies, such as robot movies for kids. These movies encourage children to explore scientific concepts, teamwork, and creativity. Some of the best space movies recommended for children above six years of age are Muppets from Space, Flight of the Navigator, Space Chimps, Mars Need Moms, and the IMAX space collection. Older children and teens may watch movies such as Gravity and Guardians of the galaxyiMassive systems of stars, gasses, dust, and remnants held together by gravitational force that form the universe. . Space-themed movies can increase a toy child’s interest in knowing space and its mysteries. Consider engaging your child with related activities such as building a model rocket, stargazing, or reading books about space to enhance their understanding and enjoyment of the movies.

Infographic: Space Movies For Children

Space is a fragment of our universe that never fails to astonish anyone, especially the little ones. So, if your child is a space enthusiast, this list of movies will surely keep them hooked to the screen. All you have to ensure is they watch during their allotted screen time and not beyond that.

fascinating movies about space for children (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Illustration: Best Space Movies For Kids To Watch

Space Movies For Kids_illustration

Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team

The deep space holds numerous unknown mysteries to humankind and has fascinated them for millenniums. Introduce the basics of space knowledge for your children through this video.

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Catherine Mok
Catherine MokSocial worker
Catherine Mok is a therapist at Austin Family Counseling. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, parents, individuals and families using a collaborative and client-centered approach tailored to the unique needs of each client.

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