Understanding Multiple Realities Within Constellation

Constellation season 1, episodes 1-4 contain spoilers.

Constellation starts off with intentional confusion but soon reveals itself as a sci-fi thriller on Apple TV that heavily relies on the concept of alternate realities to craft its narrative. The distinctions between each reality may be subtle at times, with the show seamlessly transitioning between them in a manner that can be easily missed. However, there are instances where certain universes starkly differ from their alternate versions.

In Henry's Universe, the setting remains familiar and relatable. The characters lead lives that closely mirror those of their counterparts in the real world. This universe is characterized by its attention to detail and the subtle differences that set it apart from other dimensions. The Constellation characters in Henry's Universe may exhibit unique traits or make different choices compared to their counterparts in alternate realities.

A version of ****Jonathon Banks' character became a scientist

Jonathon Banks looking serious as Henry Caldera in Constellation - A version of Jonathon Banks' character became a scientist - Henry's Universe

****Jonathon Banks' new sci-fi role, Henry Caldera, is a former astronaut who shifted to quantum physics after retiring from space exploration. The show treats Henry's universe as the "main" reality, serving as a reference point for all alternate universes.

In this universe, Jo survived her mission on the International Space Station, while the mission leader, Paul Lancaster, tragically perished due to injuries from a collision. Interestingly, the returning Jo is not the same as the one who embarked on the mission. The original Jo left with family issues and a romantic involvement with Frederic, her ESA colleague.

Bud's Universe

As part of their recovery program, Jo and her fellow returnees are given medication that is claimed to be folic acid, vitamin D, and B-12. While this may be true for the other astronauts, Jo discovers she has been dosed with lithium without her knowledge. She is generally not believed by her colleagues and superiors regarding her account of the ISS collision being caused by the dead body of a female cosmonaut. Jo also appears very confused regarding her ability to play the piano, suggesting the skill has been inherited from the version of herself native to this reality.

Bud's career took a different path than Henry's

Jonathon Banks looking serious as Bud Caldera in Constellation - Bud's career took a different path than Henry's - Bud's Universe

Bud Caldera, a variant of Henry Caldera, took a different path in his universe. Instead of pursuing a career in science, Bud opted to join the convention circuit. He spends his time signing autographs and speaking on panels about his experience as a former astronaut. However, unlike Henry, Bud is bitter and constantly defends his moon landing, vehemently dispelling any conspiracy theories.

In a shocking turn of events, Bud's anger reaches a breaking point during a cruise where he and a professional rival are guests. Fueled by frustration at having his achievements questioned, Bud throws his rival overboard. This violent act reveals a darker side to Bud's character.

While little is initially revealed about this alternate universe, subtle clues and inaccuracies in Bud's stories hint that his journey to the moon may have taken place in a different reality. Similar to Jo's situation, it is possible that Bud left his original universe during his lunar mission and returned to a different reality, where he is now featured in Constellation.

Additionally, Bud is seen taking the same mysterious pills as Jo from Henry's Universe. However, it remains unclear whether Bud is aware of the pills' true nature or their significance. The presence of these pills adds another layer of intrigue to Bud's enigmatic character.

Universe Where Jo Is Dead

Alice somehow witnessed her mother's wake

Alice looking nervous in Constellation - Alice somehow witnessed her mother's wake - Universe Where Jo Is Dead

In the conclusion of Constellation season 1, episode 4, titled "The Left Hand of God," Jo's daughter unexpectedly glimpses into an alternate reality where her mother has passed away. Through this alternate version of their house, Alice witnesses a funeral taking place, leading to her feeling a mix of confusion and fear. This fleeting moment suggests that this reality might be the original one where the Jo in Henry's Universe came from, indicating that the universe never retrieved their Jo after the ISS mission.

There is also a scene that shows Magnus and Alice walking in the snow and discussing their future without Jo, which could also take place in this same universe.

Cabin Universe

This Constellation universe is the most mixed-up

Noomi Rapace as Jo holding a lantern in Constellation - This Constellation universe is the most mixed-up - Cabin Universe

The scenes in the cabin are depicted sporadically, intentionally creating confusion. Jo is visibly distraught as she witnesses multiple versions of Alice simultaneously, leading to shared suspicions about their separate origins. It seems that Jo's shifting between realities occurs more than once, hinting at a possible connection between the Cabin Universe and Bud's universe. However, the intricate structure of Constellation suggests that it is unlikely to be Henry's universe or the one where Jo is deceased.

Constellation is now available for streaming on AppleTV+. New episodes are released every Wednesday.

Editor's P/S:

The article delves into the intricate web of alternate realities that form the foundation of the sci-fi thriller "Constellation." As the show seamlessly transitions between different dimensions, viewers are left to unravel the subtle distinctions that separate these realities. The article effectively captures the show's clever use of alternate universes and provides intriguing insights into the characters' experiences within them.

The article highlights the fascinating character arcs and plot twists that unfold in each universe. The transformation of ****Jonathon Banks' character into a scientist in Henry's Universe and the contrasting path taken by his alternate self in Bud's Universe showcase the show's ability to explore different perspectives and motivations. The introduction of the Cabin Universe adds another layer of complexity, hinting at the interconnectedness of these realities and the potential for further revelations as the season progresses. Overall, the article provides an engaging overview of "Constellation"'s unique narrative structure and leaves readers eager to delve deeper into the show's unfolding mysteries.