Well said indeed Duke, but in my opinion wrong nonetheless. I'm with the original poster.

I think, perhaps, the original poster's use of the word "appealing" was unfortunate, but I do get his/her point. The real-life space race may be less appealing and entertaining than Star Wars, but it is much more compelling. Have you ever watched the "Faces of Death" movies? I watched them as a teenager and they are still vivid in my memory. How many thousands of fictional movie deaths have I seen since then?...none of which has a fraction of the resonance of the dude getting killed by a bear while his family videos his escapades. Despite holding this opinion, I assure you I'm completely capable of suspending disbelief, and I regularly enjoy fictional books and movies. I think this suggests that the argument is framed wrongly, but my 4-year-old is yelling in my ear and I can't think right now.

I will say, in closing, that the writing of the yourself and the OP is clear and enjoyable to read.

Cheers.