In an alternate 1969, astronauts use remote-controlled replicas to live dual lives on Earth and in space, with tragic consequences.
Telepresence robots and remote-controlled avatars are used in medicine, education, and industry. NASA and other agencies use teleoperation for space exploration (rovers, robotic arms). Research into digital twins and remote work is advancing, but full human consciousness transfer to remote bodies is not possible. The psychological effects of isolation and dual lives are well-documented in astronauts and remote workers. The episode is speculative, but the foundational tech and themes are real.