Throughout much of Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, Mae’s true intentions regarding the vault remained unclear. She hinted that its contents could help humanity regain speech. Eventually, it is revealed that her objective was to retrieve a SATCOM key—a crucial piece of technology.
Mae returns with this key to her human colony, enabling them to reactivate satellites and attempt communication with other survivors. The humans are thrilled to find that the satellites are operational, thanks to the SATCOM key.

They successfully establish contact with another group of humans in Fort Wayne, Indiana. This development confirms the existence of other intelligent human groups, as previously suggested by the character Trevathan.
Mae’s mission and the reactivation of the satellites mark an important step toward reestablishing human communication networks.
What Does Noa See In The Telescope At The End?
He Looks To Space
In the final moments of the film, Noa gazes through a telescope at the sky, his expression reflecting concern. While the movie doesn’t specify what he observes, it’s evident that he perceives something troubling.
This could be an object in space that poses a potential threat to the Eagle Clan, or perhaps a satellite, now reactivated by the humans. Noa’s unease suggests apprehension about the implications of humanity’s technological resurgence.
Why Mae Doesn’t Shoot Noa When They Say Goodbye
She Hides A Gun Behind Her Back
During their farewell, Mae conceals a gun behind her back, indicating she was prepared to use it if necessary. This action suggests lingering distrust or a possible directive to eliminate influential apes. However, she chooses not to harm Noa.
Their final exchange, where Noa questions the possibility of peaceful coexistence between apes and humans and offers Mae a symbolic necklace, influences her decision. This gesture signifies Noa’s belief in harmony, impacting Mae’s choice to spare him.
Every Death In Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes’ Ending Explained
Several Key Characters Die
The film’s conclusion is marked by the deaths of several major characters. Noa’s father and Raka perish earlier in the story. In the climax, Proximus Caesar meets his end after being outmaneuvered by Noa, who also causes the death of Sylva by trapping him in the flooding vault.
Mae is responsible for the deaths of Trevathan, whom she strangles to prevent exposure of their plan, and Lightning, whom she shoots to protect Soona.
What Happened To Proximus Caesar’s Clan After The Flood?
His Kingdom Endured Many Casualties
The fate of Proximus Caesar’s clan remains uncertain following the flood that devastates their base. With Proximus dead and their stronghold destroyed, the surviving apes face an ambiguous future.
It’s unclear whether they will disband, seek new leadership, or attempt to rebuild. The film leaves their trajectory open-ended, suggesting potential developments in future installments.
How Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes’ Ending Sets Up A Sequel

Mae & Noa Both Look To The Skies
The closing scenes set the stage for future discussions, highlighting the parallel paths of Noa and Mae. Noa assumes leadership of the Eagle Clan, aiming to guide them toward a more enlightened existence. Mae, having successfully reconnected human colonies, plays a pivotal role in humanity’s resurgence.
Both characters are shown contemplating the sky, symbolizing their forward-looking perspectives and the potential for continued evolution and conflict.
The Real Meaning Of Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes’ Ending
Can Apes & Humans Live Together?
A central theme of the film is the possibility of peaceful coexistence between apes and humans. Noa’s dialogue with Mae underscores this inquiry, reflecting on whether their species can overcome mutual distrust.
The discussion illustrates that collaboration is achievable, as demonstrated by their joint efforts against Proximus. However, the path to harmony is fraught with challenges, requiring both sides to prioritize collective well-being over individual interests.
The sequel will likely look into the intricacies of this evolving relationship.



