Survival and Resilience
Earth is at the brink of an ice age that will worsen over time unless the space program finds a solution. Humanity has to survive until the mission is successful hence have to put their faith and hope on Project Hail Mary. In space, Grace has to cope with the harsh environment and his state of mind trying to figure out the mission. The original team was prepared for the suicide mission—since there is no returning to Earth—with the survival of the human race on their backs. Grace has to fight for survival at every turn with several setbacks occurring with each experiment. The introduction to extraterrestrial civilizations sees the natural instinct to survive that cuts across species.
Collaboration
The UN task force that ensures the success of Project Hail Mary is the first display of collaboration in the narrative. As the head of the operation, Stratt has to approve the suicide mission alongside other significant decisions before launch. Though the spaceship launches with an entire team, Grace finds himself as the sole survivor of the trip. Before his encounter with Rocky, he has to use his wits to comprehend the situation but the first contact opens more possibilities. They exchange their expertise which allows for a more productive endeavor towards saving the solar system. Since Eridian technology is less advanced Grace offers the race an edge in solving their technological shortcomings.
Utilitarianism
Altruism is at the core of this tale with characters risking their lives for the greater good of their civilization. On Earth, the task force suffers casualties but the rest of the team still works to undertake the suicide mission. As a disgraced scientist, Grace lost his way but now has the chance to do something good for human civilization. However, in the beginning, he is barely a noble protagonist since he refuses to take on the mission as a crew member. On arrival the lack of memory in the first few days allows him to place the assignment before his needs. Gradually, he learns to be selfless and puts his life on the line to ensure that Project Hail Mary succeeds. His friendship with Rocky grows to the point of sacrificing his way out to go rescue him and other Eridians.
