Sci-Fi On Location: Real-World Settings from Your Favorite Films

5. Iceland – Earth’s Stand-In for Other Planets in Interstellar and Oblivion

Iceland’s surreal and extreme landscapes have made it Hollywood’s go-to stand-in for alien planets. Its black sand beaches, lava fields, glacial lagoons, and geothermal steam vents can all be found within a few hours’ drive—each more otherworldly than the last. In Interstellar, Iceland doubled as two different exoplanets: the icy water world and the desolate, mountainous planet where time dilates. It also appeared in Prometheus, Oblivion, and even Rogue One. With active volcanoes and freezing glaciers coexisting in close quarters, Iceland captures the chaos and beauty of newly formed planets. Travelers here can hike across moss-covered lava flows, soak in blue geothermal pools, and gaze at auroras that rival any sci-fi sky. Few Earth locations feel this much like an alien world—making Iceland a must-visit for fans of space-age stories and cinematic wonder.