The filming of the movie took place in several picturesque and significant locations. Scenes of the dying planet Dessa were shot in Tajikistan, near an abandoned oil refinery close to the city of Isfara, where the landscapes resembled a post-apocalyptic desert. In Crimea, near Bakhchysarai, on the Southern Cross plateau and in the cave city of Chufut-Kale, episodes with earthly landscapes were filmed. The underground structures on Dessa were shot in Moscow, in the basements of a house on Solyanka Street, which added gloom and mystery to the scenes. Space scenes of weightlessness were filmed underwater in the pool of the Yalta Hotel, where divers simulated movement in space. The interiors of the spaceport were depicted in the hall of Sheremetyevo-2 Airport, giving these scenes a futuristic and realistic look. Some episodes with natural landscapes of the planet Dessa were filmed in the colorful mountains of Tajikistan, creating the atmosphere of an alien world. For scenes involving movement across the surface of Dessa, sets and vehicles created at the Yalta Film Studio were used. The Tien Shan mountains also became a location for dynamic chase scenes and the heroes' journeys along complex routes. These diverse filming locations made the film visually rich and emphasized its science fiction atmosphere.

Filming Locations:

Dungeon of Dessa

In the Movie

Scene where Niya, under pressure from Turanchox, tries to follow his instructions, but an internal conflict makes her doubt the correctness of her actions. She receives radio commands from Turanchox, who demands that she move the bomb to the starship Astra. Meanwhile, Nadezhda, a researcher, tries to convince Niya not to succumb to manipulation and to remember her true nature and purpose. When Niya witnesses the murder of Nadezhda, this event awakens strong emotions in her and a determination to change the course of events. She decides to throw out the bomb and release the biomass created by the scientist Glan, leading to chaos in the dungeon. The Earthlings on Astra receive a distress signal and rush to Niya's aid, realizing that the situation is becoming critical. In the end, the heroes unite to stop the spread of the biomass and save both themselves and the planet Dessa from complete destruction.

In Reality

The scene was filmed In Moscow, in the basements of a house on Solyanka Street, known as the gray house on Solyanka. This location was chosen because of its architecture and atmosphere, which helped create a gloomy and mysterious backdrop for scenes taking place in conditions of ecological disaster. The basements had the necessary characteristics to convey a sense of confinement and isolation, which matched the film's plot. Transforming the basement into another world was relatively easy thanks to the use of sets and lighting. The team of costume designers and decorators managed to create effects that visually transformed the space, adding elements consistent with the science fiction theme. The use of various materials and lighting effects helped achieve the desired visual effect, making the dungeons of Dessa convincing and memorable.

Spaceport

In the Movie

Scene where The main characters and members of the expedition exit the vehicle and head to the terminal. They look excited and somewhat tense, aware of the importance of their mission. Stepan, as a cosmonaut cadet, tries to calm Niya, explaining that an amazing journey awaits them. As they move toward the spaceport, they pass through security control, where they are checked for prohibited items. Niya struggles to adapt to Earth's technology and rules, but Stepan's support helps her cope. Inside the spaceport, the heroes admire the futuristic decorations and moving trains that transport passengers. Then they gather in the waiting area, discussing the details of the upcoming expedition and their concerns. Niya begins to realize her purpose and the importance of saving her home planet Dessa. At that moment, information about the launch of their starship Astra appears on the screen, causing a feeling of excitement and determination in everyone. The scene ends with the heroes boarding the ship, ready for their journey into the unknown.

In Reality

The scene was filmed At Moscow's Sheremetyevo-2 Airport. This location was chosen because of its architecture, which fit well into the concept of a futuristic spaceport, despite the airport itself not having a pronounced science fiction design. Using a real airport helped create an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement before space travel, which was important for the plot. The interior spaces of Sheremetyevo-2 provided the necessary scale and details to convey the feeling of a modern transport hub. Transforming an ordinary airport hall into a spaceport was relatively easy thanks to the use of sets and lighting. The film crew was able to add elements such as information boards with names of starships and their destinations, which enhanced the immersion in the science fiction reality. Thus, the choice of Sheremetyevo-2 as a filming location was a successful decision that helped create a believable and engaging world for viewers.

Southern Cross Plateau

In the Movie

Scene where Niya and her companions exit the vehicle, admiring the majestic landscapes and unusual atmosphere of this place. Niya, experiencing mixed feelings, looks around, trying to understand how this place is connected to her past and her home planet Dessa. Stepan, next to her, explains that they are on the edge of an ancient world and that this place has special significance for their mission. The heroes begin to explore the surroundings, discussing their plans to save Dessa and the possible difficulties they may encounter. Niya feels an internal conflict—her connection to this place awakens memories of her past. During the exploration, they find traces of an ancient civilization, which arouses their interest and surprise. Soon, the group faces a threat from local inhabitants or creatures who do not want the Earthlings to interfere in their affairs. This leads to a tense situation where the heroes must act quickly and decisively to protect themselves and continue their mission. The scene ends with Niya deciding to use her abilities to protect her friends and overcome the obstacles that have arisen.

In Reality

The scene was filmed Near Bakhchysarai in the cave city of Chufut-Kale. This location was chosen for filming because of its unique landscape and historical significance, which created an atmosphere of mystery and antiquity, perfectly suited for the science fiction plot. Chufut-Kale, located at an altitude of over 500 meters above sea level, is surrounded by high cliffs and has many caves and ancient structures, making it easy to convey the feeling of another world. The film crew used the natural shapes and textures of the rocks to create visually appealing scenes that highlight Niya's connection to her home planet Dessa. Moreover, choosing this location allowed for significant savings on sets, as the natural conditions already created the desired effect. Chufut-Kale is also a popular tourist attraction, adding additional value to its use in the film. Thus, this place became a key element in creating the unique atmosphere of the movie.