Embark on a journey into the unknown with Space: 1999, a landmark British science fiction television series that first aired in the mid-1970s.
Produced by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson, famed for Thunderbirds, the show presented a dramatic, high-concept premise: On September 13th, 1999, massive nuclear waste stored on the Moon’s far side detonates catastrophically. The immense explosion blasts the Moon out of Earth’s orbit, sending it and the 311 inhabitants of Moonbase Alpha hurtling uncontrollably through interstellar space. Stranded and cut off from home, the crew must survive the perils of deep space while searching for a new world to call home.
Led by the pragmatic Commander John Koenig (Martin Landau) and the compassionate Chief Medical Officer Dr. Helena Russell (Barbara Bain), the crew of Moonbase Alpha faces a universe filled with bizarre alien life forms, mind-bending cosmic phenomena, and profound philosophical questions about humanity’s place in the cosmos. Each episode brings new challenges and wonders, showcasing impressive visual effects and production design for its era. Space: 1999 cultivated a distinct atmosphere, often more focused on existential themes and the psychological toll of their predicament than straightforward action, securing its status as a cult classic remembered for its ambitious scope and serious tone.
Space: 1999 the RPG
Of course, there’s a tabletop game coming from Modiphius, that British powerhouse of TTRPG publishing.
In the meantime, fans (or prospective fans) can download the 51-page quickstart.
Modiphius says;
Take part in a journey full of danger, wonder, and mystery as one of the dedicated crew of Moonbase Alpha on their search for a new home.
The quickstart introduces the series (which I’ve never watched!) and the 2d20 rules (which I most certainly have played), offers up six pre-gen characters and adventure “Breakaway”.
The full rules are due in the Spring… and, hey, isn’t that now? I noticed Modiphius are attending the UK Games Expo, so perhaps there will be a movement for that big event.
Quick Links
- Download: Space: 1999 Quickstart.
