Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about space: 1999 episodes.
What is Space: 1999?
Space: 1999 is a British science-fiction television series produced by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson's studio and broadcast by ITC from 1975 to 1977. It follows the crew of a research base on an artificial moon called Alpha after a nuclear waste detonation sends the Moon hurtling out of Earth's orbit and into deep space.
Who are the main characters?
The core trio in Season 1 is Commander John Koenig (played by Barry Stewart), scientist Helena Russell (Linda Geissler), and engineer Victor 'Vik' Vector (Martin Shaw). Season 2 expands the cast with Alan Carter (Nicholas Cage in early episodes, later replaced) and Tony Saylor (Barry Morse), among others.
How many episodes are there in total?
The series comprises 33 episodes across two seasons: 12 in Season 1 (1975) and 21 in Season 2 (1977). Each episode runs roughly 50 minutes.
Where should a newcomer start watching?
Most fans recommend beginning with 'The Other Side of the Moon,' the Season 1 pilot, which establishes the crew, the Moon's origins, and the central disaster. Season 1 is more episodic and character-focused, while Season 2 shifts to a serialized deep-space survival story, so watching in broadcast order works well.
What is the fundamental premise of the show?
A nuclear waste explosion on the Moon's surface triggers a chain reaction that knocks Alpha out of its orbit, leaving the crew stranded in interstellar space with limited resources. They must survive, solve the mystery of who built the Moon, and find a way back to Earth or a new home.
What is the Moon (Alpha) actually?
Alpha is revealed to be a purpose-built artificial satellite created by an ancient, technologically advanced alien civilization whose identity remains deliberately ambiguous throughout the series. It contains hidden chambers, energy sources, and defensive systems the crew gradually uncover.
How do Season 1 and Season 2 differ in tone and structure?
Season 1 is largely Earth-anchored, with each episode presenting a self-contained mystery or threat while the Moon still hovers near Earth. Season 2 places the Moon in open space, introduces a larger ensemble, and leans into longer-running arcs involving alien civilizations and the Moon's ultimate fate.
What are some of the most iconic or frequently discussed episodes?
'The Moon has a Dark Side' features a full-scale alien invasion of Alpha, while 'The Four Day Week' involves a time-displacement accident. In Season 2, 'Breakaway' is often cited as a standout for its high-stakes cliffhanger, and 'The Four Day Week' and 'Breakaway' together bookend the series' most memorable set pieces.
Where was the series filmed and what production techniques were used?
Principal photography took place at Shepperton Studios in Surrey, England, with extensive use of the Andersons' signature Supermarionation-style puppetry for smaller figures, large-scale matte paintings, and model work for space sequences. The sets for Alpha's corridors and labs became recognizable fixtures of 1970s television design.
Is Space: 1999 still available to watch today?
The complete series has been released on DVD and Blu-ray in various regions, and episodes can be found on several streaming and digital rental platforms. Availability varies by country, but the show remains one of the most accessible classic sci-fi series for new viewers.