Based directly on Homer "Sonny" Hickam Jr., the author of the memoir. The film accurately portrays his inspiration from Sputnik and his passion for rocketry, though some plot details are altered.

Based on Homer Hickam Sr. The film emphasizes his opposition to Homer's dreams for dramatic conflict; while tension existed, Homer Sr. was ultimately supportive. His first name was changed for the film.

Accurately reflects the real Elsie Hickam's encouragement of Homer's ambitions beyond coal mining and her role as a mediator.

Based on the real teacher who significantly supported and inspired the Rocket Boys. Her positive influence and belief in the students are accurately portrayed.

A real member of the Rocket Boys, accurately depicted as the group's theorist and expert in calculations.

A real member of the Rocket Boys and close friend of Homer, accurately depicted as part of the core group.

The sighting of Sputnik 1 was the pivotal event that sparked Homer Hickam's passion for rocketry, as detailed in his memoir.

Hickam and his friends did form the Big Creek Missile Agency (BCMA) to design and launch rockets. The film depicts four members representing the real six.

While Homer Sr. initially wanted Homer to work in the mines, the film likely exaggerates the extent and duration of his opposition for dramatic effect.

Teacher Freida Riley was a vital source of encouragement, providing resources and pushing the boys towards the science fair.

The boys received significant help and eventual support from various members of the Coalwood community.

Safety concerns forced the boys to establish a remote launch site on an old slack dump several miles out of town.

The boys were accused of starting a fire. The film dramatizes Homer proving their innocence with trajectory calculations; in reality, authorities quickly realized their rockets weren't capable of reaching the site.

The Rocket Boys won the gold and silver medals in propulsion at the 1960 National Science Fair, a major achievement that opened doors to college.

The film shows Homer dropping out of school to work in the mine after his father's injury. Hickam did work in the mine one summer between school years, but not under these circumstances.

The real Ike Bykovsky did tragically die in a mine accident, a poignant event reflecting the dangers of mining life.

The film shows the boys stealing crucial parts. Hickam stated they attempted to take a pipe once but were unsuccessful and nearly caught/killed.

The emotional climax where Homer Sr. attends the final launch and presses the firing button is based on a real event described in the memoir.

The film implies they met at the National Science Fair. Hickam has stated they were at the same event but narrowly missed meeting each other.

While the specific plot point of proving innocence this way was dramatized, the boys did learn advanced mathematics and physics to calculate trajectories for their rockets.

Though filmed in Tennessee, extensive set construction and design accurately recreated the look, feel, and atmosphere of a 1950s West Virginia coal company town.

Effectively portrays the pervasive influence of the coal company on all aspects of life – work, housing, social structure, and limited opportunities.

Realistic recreation of the mine tipple and the cramped, dangerous conditions inside the mine shafts, based on research and Hickam's experiences.

Accurately captures the national excitement, anxiety, and renewed focus on science education triggered by the Soviet launch of Sputnik in 1957.

Represents a typical rural American high school of the period, including classrooms, social cliques, and the emphasis placed on athletics (football).

Attempts to convey the regional culture and dialect, though primarily through the lens of the main narrative about escaping the expected path.

Clothing styles, vehicles, household items, and technology (like TVs) generally align well with the late 1950s period, despite minor noted anachronisms (e.g., flag).

Shows the progression from backyard experiments to the established, remote "Cape Coalwood" launch site, reflecting the boys' journey and increasing sophistication.