Scientist Agnes discovers a rope reaching the outer limits of a remote Norwegian observatory. Accompanied by her husband, Bernhardt, and fellow scientists, they set off to investigate the mysterious rope in search of its origin and end.

At the observatory, the scientists begin to worry about their missing colleagues. The rope's power shifts the investigation into obsession and the group loses track of time. It appears that the rope exposes the deepest fears of those in its path.

At the observatory, police are giving up hope in the search for the investigators along the rope, but Agnes, despite her infidelity, refuses to give up hope on finding her husband.