The Best Space Movies For Kids

Ranker Film
Updated April 9, 2024 36.7K views 25 items
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3.2K votes
403 voters

More than 350 movie fans have come together to cast their votes for the best kids movies about space. Outer space has been a source of fascination and inspiration for generations, and it's no wonder why these films are so beloved by children around the world. Whether they're captivated by thrilling action scenes or inspired by stories of exploration and discovery, these movies capture our imaginations like few others can.

From classic animated features like WALL-E to more recent releases such as Lightyear, this list is packed with timeless tales set in galaxies far away. For example, WALL-E takes us on an epic adventure through outer space with lovable characters. Even adults can appreciate the action-packed Lightyear, which tells a story of a young Buzz Lightyear making interstellar travel across vast distances to find home.

And don't forget about classics like Star Wars: A New Hope - one of the first science fiction films that truly captured our hearts. These movies demonstrate just how powerful stories about space exploration can be, creating memories that will last a lifetime. So take a look at this list and see if your favorite made it in - then vote up your favorites.

Most divisive: Space Jam
Over 400 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Space Movies For Kids
  • WALL-E
    1
    Ben Burtt, Elissa Knight, Jeff Garlin
    179 votes

    As the last functioning trash-compacting robot on Earth, WALL-E inadvertently embarks on a thrilling outer space adventure when he meets and falls in love with a spaceship's reconnaissance robot named EVE. This poignant tale teaches valuable lessons about environmental sustainability, companionship, and overcoming adversity, all while capturing the beauty and enormity of the cosmos. The stunning visuals, endearing characters, and powerful message make it a must-watch for kids and families alike.

  • Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope
    2
    Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher
    162 votes

    This epic space opera introduces viewers to an unforgettable cast of characters, from the brave and noble Luke Skywalker to the lovable and quirky droids R2-D2 and C-3PO. Set in a galaxy far, far away, the story follows these heroes as they join forces with Princess Leia and roguish pilot Han Solo to battle the sinister Galactic Empire and its planet-destroying Death Star. Its perfect blend of action, humor, and thrilling storytelling makes it an ageless classic that continues to captivate audiences of all ages.

  • Monsters vs. Aliens
    3
    Reese Witherspoon, Hugh Laurie, Seth Rogen
    134 votes

    Featuring a colorful lineup of lovable and hilarious creatures, this quirky animated film chronicles the adventures of an unlikely team of monsters who must unite to save Earth from an alien invasion. In doing so, each character learns to embrace their uniqueness and finds value in their differences. The movie provides non-stop laughs and action for youngsters, while also delivering a powerful message about self-acceptance and the importance of teamwork.

  • Zathura
    4
    Josh Hutcherson, Jonah Bobo, Dax Shepard
    117 votes

    When two squabbling brothers discover an old board game called Zathura, their ordinary lives take an extraordinary turn as they are transported into the midst of an intergalactic adventure. Along the way, they encounter a stranded astronaut, hostile aliens, and a host of thrilling challenges that force them to confront their fears and work together. With its exciting plot, stunning visuals, and powerful sibling themes, the film remains a fan-favorite amongst both kids and adults.

  • Lightyear
    5
    Chris Evans, Keke Palmer, Peter Sohn
    25 votes

    Set to be released in 2022, this highly anticipated animated film will explore the origin story of the legendary space ranger Buzz Lightyear, known as the inspiration for the iconic toy character in the beloved Toy Story franchise. As Buzz embarks on his maiden voyage through the cosmos, audiences can expect thrilling interstellar adventures, unforgettable new characters, and a deeper understanding of the hero who has captured hearts and imaginations for decades. The movie's unique blend of adventure, humor, and emotion promises an exciting and inspiring experience for kids and adults alike.

  • Muppets from Space
    6
    Jeffrey Tambor, F. Murray Abraham, Rob Schneider
    100 votes

    This zany adventure follows the lovable Muppets as they help their extraterrestrial friend, Gonzo, search for his long-lost family and uncover the truth behind his origins. Along the way, they must outsmart a sinister government agent, navigate thrilling space-faring escapades, and learn powerful lessons about love and acceptance. The film's delightful combination of humor, warmhearted life lessons, and exciting outer-space hijinks make it an excellent fit for young viewers.

  • Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace
    7
    Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman
    125 votes

    Kicking off the highly anticipated prequel trilogy, this installment transports fans back to the origins of the iconic Star Wars saga. It weaves together the stories of beloved characters like Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn, young Obi-Wan Kenobi, and the future Darth Vader, Anakin Skywalker, while introducing new species, planets, and villains to the mix. With dazzling special effects, thrilling action sequences, and a sweeping soundtrack, it's sure to captivate first-time viewers and lifelong fans.

  • Space Jam
    8
    Wayne Knight, Theresa Randle, Danny DeVito
    129 votes

    This wildly inventive live-action and animated mashup sees basketball superstar Michael Jordan teaming up with beloved Looney Tunes characters, like Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, to save them from intergalactic slavery. An epic showdown unfolds as they face off against the villainous alien Monstars in a high-stakes basketball game for the ages. With its unique blend of sports, comedy, and interstellar adventure, it remains an entertaining and nostalgic favorite for both children and adults.

  • Space Buddies
    9
    Amy Sedaris, Diedrich Bader, Nolan Gould
    105 votes

    The beloved canine stars of the "Air Buddies" franchise embark on their most ambitious adventure yet when they accidentally board a space shuttle bound for the moon. Along the way, they must work together to navigate the challenges of zero gravity, thwart a dangerous Russian doggy duo, and ultimately save the day. This heartwarming, family-friendly film combines adorable dogs, thrilling outer-space action, and important lessons about teamwork, making it a delightful watch for kids of all ages.

  • Treasure Planet
    10
    Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Brian Murray, David Hyde Pierce
    125 votes

    An exciting adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's classic tale, Treasure Island, this film transports viewers to a fantastical world where space travel mixes with swashbuckling pirate adventures. As young Jim Hawkins chases his dreams of galactic treasure, he forms an unlikely bond with the enigmatic cyborg Long John Silver, encountering unforgettable planets and creatures along the way. With its breathtaking visuals and timeless themes of adventure, friendship, and self-discovery, it remains an engaging watch for children of all ages.

  • Astro Boy
    11
    Freddie Highmore, Kristen Bell, Nathan Lane
    93 votes

    Based on the beloved Japanese comic and animated series, this film tells the origin story of a young robot named Astro Boy, who is created to replace a brilliant scientist's deceased son. As he grapples with his newfound identity and abilities, Astro Boy must protect humanity from a dangerous villain and prove his worth as a hero. The film's action-packed storyline, compelling characters, and themes of self-discovery make it an engaging and educational watch for young audiences.

  • Earth to Echo
    12
    Astro, Teo Halm, Reese Hartwig
    84 votes

    When a group of friends receives mysterious signals on their smartphones, they embark on a thrilling journey to uncover the source, ultimately discovering a tiny, stranded alien that needs their help. As they work together to reunite the alien, dubbed Echo, with his family and protect him from nefarious government agents, the kids learn valuable lessons about friendship and teamwork. With its heartwarming story, endearing characters, and exciting adventure, the film offers a modern and engaging spin on the classic extraterrestrial tale.

  • Galaxy Quest
    13
    Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman
    99 votes

    This clever sci-fi comedy follows a group of washed-up actors from a canceled television show who are mistaken for real space adventurers and whisked away by aliens to save their kind. Along the way, they must overcome their personal shortcomings, navigate an assortment of strange and hilarious creatures, and learn what it means to be true heroes. Its witty humor and thrilling plot make it an enjoyable family film that pays loving homage to classic science fiction.

  • The Last Starfighter
    14
    Lance Guest, Robert Preston, Dan O'Herlihy
    97 votes

    In this thrilling '80s classic, a young video game enthusiast named Alex Rogan is recruited by an alien race to become a starfighter pilot in their battle against an evil empire. As he rises from humble beginnings to become a galactic hero, Alex learns valuable lessons about self-confidence, bravery, and the power of friendship. With its captivating storyline, memorable characters, and groundbreaking special effects, it's no wonder this film has remained a beloved favorite among sci-fi fans of all ages.

  • Explorers
    15
    Ethan Hawke, River Phoenix, Jason Presson
    95 votes

    In this imaginative sci-fi fantasy, three young friends, inspired by their shared dreams and a mysterious circuit diagram, team up to build their very own interstellar spacecraft. As they fly through space and eventually meet a bizarrely captivating alien species, the kids learn important lessons about the nature of friendship, courage, and the wonder of scientific exploration. With its heartwarming story, inventive visuals, and a dose of nostalgic charm, this film remains an engaging and uplifting watch for young audiences.

  • Jetsons: The Movie
    16
    Mel Blanc, Rick Dees, Patti Deutsch
    96 votes

    This fun-filled adaptation of the classic Hanna-Barbera cartoon series follows the futuristic family, the Jetsons, as they embark on an outer-space adventure after George Jetson's promotion forces them to move to a new intergalactic home. Along the way, they face various challenges, including adapting to their new surroundings, solving a corporate conspiracy, and saving the environment. The film's charming animation, quirky humor, and fascinating vision of the future make it a delightful choice for kids and nostalgic adults alike.

  • Escape from Planet Earth
    17
    Rob Corddry, Brendan Fraser, Sarah Jessica Parker
    92 votes

    This vibrant animated film follows the adventures of Scorch Supernova, a daring astronaut from the planet Baab, who finds himself captured by a devious villain on Earth. With the help of his nerdy brother Gary, Scorch must navigate Earth's strange customs and inhabitants while saving both their homeworld and new human friends from certain doom. Its colorful animation, thrilling action, and endearing characters make it an enjoyable pick for children and families alike.

  • Titan A.E.
    18
    Matt Damon, Drew Barrymore, Bill Pullman
    92 votes

    Set in a post-apocalyptic future where Earth has been destroyed by an alien race called the Drej, this visually stunning animated film follows Cale, a young human entrusted with a map to the legendary spaceship Titan. As he and a ragtag crew of survivors embark on a daring search for the vessel, they face treacherous obstacles, dark revelations, and the relentless pursuit of the vengeful Drej. The film's intricate animation, gripping story, and themes of hope and resilience make it a captivating watch for older kids and teens.

  • SpaceCamp
    19
    Kate Capshaw, Lea Thompson, Kelly Preston
    87 votes

    In this entertaining family adventure, a group of aspiring young astronauts inadvertently find themselves launched into space during a summer camp trip to NASA. As they attempt to return to Earth, the kids must overcome their differences, rely on their training, and learn to work together as a team. Featuring a high-stakes space journey, engaging characters, and an inspiring message about perseverance and camaraderie, the film remains a cherished classic for viewers of all ages.

  • Mars Needs Moms
    20
    Seth Green, Dan Fogler, Elisabeth Harnois
    79 votes

    In a whimsical tale of extraterrestrial encounters, a young boy named Milo stows away on a spaceship to rescue his mother, who has been abducted by Martians to teach their own unruly offspring. Along the way, he befriends a rebellious Martian girl and a human stranded on Mars, learning invaluable lessons about love, sacrifice, and the true meaning of family. The film's heartfelt story, imaginative visuals, and touching themes make it a thought-provoking and enlightening choice for kids and families.

  • Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow
    21
    Gwyneth Paltrow, Jude Law, Angelina Jolie
    78 votes

    Set in an alternative 1939, this visually striking adventure film follows daring pilot Sky Captain, played by Jude Law, and tenacious reporter Polly Perkins, played by Gwyneth Paltrow, as they team up to battle a mysterious villain bent on world domination. With its steampunk-inspired design, thrilling aerial sequences, and an intriguing retro-futuristic setting, the movie offers an engaging and imaginative take on the classic heroic adventure story suitable for older kids and teens.

  • Fly Me to the Moon
    22
    Christopher Lloyd, Kelly Ripa, Nicollette Sheridan
    74 votes

    This animated adventure follows three intrepid houseflies who stow away on Apollo 11, determined to become the first insects on the moon. As they experience weightlessness, lunar landscapes, and historic moments, the tiny trio learns important lessons about teamwork, resourcefulness, and daring to dream big. With its engaging storyline, detailed animation, and a unique spin on the historic moon landing, the film offers a fun and educational experience for young viewers.

  • Teens in the Universe
    23
    Innokenty Smoktunovsky, Natalya Fateeva, Igor Ledogorov
    68 votes

    In this whimsical, Soviet-era science fiction film, a group of intrepid teenagers embarks on an interstellar adventure to rescue the galaxy from a ruthless villain with plans to conquer Earth. As the young heroes face off against an array of fantastical creatures and sinister foes, they learn valuable lessons about teamwork, bravery, and responsibility. The movie's charming blend of comedy, adventure, and thought-provoking themes make it a delightful coming-of-age story that resonates with audiences of all ages.

  • The Mystery of the Third Planet
    24
    Vasily Livanov, Vladimir Druzhnikov, Rina Zelyonaya
    72 votes

    This animated sci-fi adventure, based on a popular Russian novel, follows a young girl named Alice and her father, Captain Zelyony, as they journey across the galaxy to find rare animals for a Moscow zoo. Along the way, they uncover a sinister plot involving mysterious disappearing planets and must race against time to save their own world. With its enchanting blend of fantasy, mystery, and vibrant animation, the film presents an entertaining and educational look at the wonders of space exploration for kids.

  • Guest from the Future
    25
    Vyacheslav Nevinny, Natalya Murashkevich, Mikhail Kononov
    64 votes

    This iconic Soviet-time travel adventure follows the friendship between a 20th-century schoolboy and a visitor from the distant future as they work to save the world from a dangerous villain who threatens their timelines. As they journey through space and time, the duo learns important lessons about courage, loyalty, and the power of human connection. With its inventive premise, engaging plot twists, and timeless themes, the film remains a unique and enduring classic for generations of viewers.