Augustine, a brilliant, ageing scientist, is consumed by the stars. For years he has scanned the universe, trying to quantify infinity, to look back at the beginning of time itself. When news of a catastrophic event arrives at the remote research centre in the Arctic circle where he works and the researchers are evacuated, he insists on staying behind. But shortly after the last airlift departs, Augustine discovers a mysterious child, Iris. As time wears on, Augustine is unable to establish contact with the outside world. They are alone.