Did you see Andy Weir's talk at ASM a few years ago? He was asked about how he researches the science in his books. He basically said he googled a bunch and then made it up. 😂 I also enjoyed Project Hail Mary, but you are correct.

Having read the author's other books, I'm guessing the conviction is going to stand.

There is a sequel coming out soon, so I guess we will see. At the end of the first book it's not looking good for him.

There is a pretty popular booktok book where the killer frames someone else and that person is convicted. I enjoyed it.