Hal 9000 is a fictional computer in the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey. Hal stands for Heuristically programmed ALgorithmic computer. He is meant to be a super advanced computer that follows orders and has artificial intelligence (A.I.). That means that Hal can think and make decisions on his own. Hal's job is to help astronauts on their space journey, he helps control their spaceship, communicate with them, and give advice. Hal can also learn and remember things. He is very smart and can do difficult tasks.