Best Sci-Fi and Space Shows

The Expanse

The Expanse is a critically acclaimed sci-fi series set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, spanning Earth, Mars, and the Asteroid Belt. The story begins when a young woman named Julie Mao goes missing, triggering a chain of events that reveals a vast conspiracy threatening the fragile peace between the different factions. The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, including James Holden, the captain of a spaceship called the Rocinante, and Detective Josephus Miller, who is searching for Julie. As tensions rise and political machinations unfold, the characters confront not only the dangers of interstellar conflict but also the mysteries of a powerful alien technology known as the protomolecule. With its rich world-building, complex characters, and intricate plots, The Expanse explores themes of survival, power, and the consequences of human ambition, making it a standout entry in the science fiction genre.

Star Trek: Discovery

Star Trek: Discovery is a science fiction series that expands the Star Trek universe with a fresh, modern take while exploring deep space adventures and philosophical themes. Set roughly a decade before the original Star Trek series, it follows the crew of the USS Discovery as they navigate through galactic wars, political conflicts, and complex moral dilemmas. The series stands out for its serialized storytelling, cinematic visuals, and the evolution of its main character, Michael Burnham, a human raised by Vulcans. As Burnham grapples with her identity and her place within Starfleet, the show delves into themes of unity, exploration, and the challenges of leadership in a constantly changing universe. Throughout its seasons, Discovery pushes the boundaries of space exploration while maintaining the core spirit of curiosity, diversity, and hope that defines Star Trek.

Stargate Atlantis

Stargate Atlantis is a captivating sci-fi television series and a spin-off of the long-running Stargate SG-1. Set in the expansive Stargate universe, the show follows a team of explorers who travel to the lost city of Atlantis, located in the distant Pegasus galaxy. Led by Dr. Elizabeth Weir and featuring a diverse cast, including the heroic Major John Sheppard, the team uncovers advanced technology and alien cultures while facing numerous threats, particularly from the sinister Wraith, a race of vampiric aliens that feed on human life. The series skillfully combines elements of adventure, exploration, and military science fiction, offering engaging story arcs and character development throughout its five seasons. Each episode blends action and suspense with thoughtful narratives, often exploring themes of morality, sacrifice, and the challenges of leadership. Stargate Atlantis is celebrated for its imaginative storytelling, strong character dynamics, and special effects, making it a favorite among fans of the genre. The series successfully expands the Stargate mythology, delving into the mysteries of the Ancients and the dangers lurking in the galaxy, solidifying its place as a beloved installment in the broader Stargate franchise.

Battlestar Galactica

Battlestar Galactica is a critically acclaimed science fiction television series that originally aired from 2004 to 2009, created by Ronald D. Moore. A reimagining of the 1978 series of the same name, the show follows the remnants of humanity as they flee from the robotic Cylons, who have decimated their home planets in a devastating war. The story centers around the last surviving warship, the Battlestar Galactica, and its crew, led by Commander William Adama (Edward James Olmos) and President Laura Roslin (Mary McDonnell), as they navigate the dangers of space, political intrigue, and moral dilemmas while searching for a new home, the fabled planet of Earth. The series is lauded for its complex characters, intricate storytelling, and exploration of themes such as survival, identity, and the nature of humanity, making it a significant work in the sci-fi genre. Battlestar Galactica has won numerous awards and remains influential in popular culture, praised for its thought-provoking narrative and character development.

Dark Matter

Firefly

Firefly is a critically acclaimed science fiction television series created by Joss Whedon, which first aired in 2002. Set in a future where humanity has colonized other planets, the show follows the ragtag crew of the spaceship Serenity, led by the charismatic and morally complex Captain Malcolm 'Mal' Reynolds. As they navigate life on the fringes of society, the crew takes on various jobs, both legal and illegal, while trying to evade the oppressive Alliance government and other dangers of the galaxy. The series masterfully blends elements of Westerns and space opera, featuring a diverse ensemble cast, including Nathan Fillion as Mal, Gina Torres as Zoe, and Alan Tudyk as Wash. Despite its short run of only 14 episodes, Firefly garnered a passionate fan base and is celebrated for its witty dialogue, rich character development, and themes of freedom and rebellion. The show's legacy continued with the 2005 film Serenity, which aimed to wrap up the storylines left unresolved by the series' cancellation, further cementing its place in sci-fi history.

Lost in Space

Lost in Space is a science fiction television series that follows the Robinson family, who are among the colonists chosen to settle on a distant planet after Earth becomes increasingly uninhabitable. The story begins when their spaceship, the Jupiter 2, veers off course due to an attack from an unknown alien entity, leading them to crash-land on an uncharted and dangerous planet. The family, consisting of parents John and Maureen Robinson and their three children—Judy, Penny, and Will—must work together to survive the harsh conditions, navigate unforeseen threats, and find a way back to their mission. The series explores themes of family, survival, and resilience, along with the complexities of human relationships and the impact of technology, as they encounter various alien species and face moral dilemmas in their quest for survival.

Doctor Who

Doctor Who is a beloved British science fiction series that follows the adventures of the Doctor, a Time Lord from the planet Gallifrey who travels through time and space in the TARDIS, a time machine that appears as a British police box on the outside but is much larger on the inside. With the ability to regenerate, the Doctor changes appearance and personality upon death, allowing various actors to portray the character over the years, each bringing their unique interpretation to the role. Accompanied by a rotating cast of companions, the Doctor battles a wide array of alien species, solves historical mysteries, and tackles ethical dilemmas, all while exploring themes of courage, friendship, and the impact of time on humanity. The show's mix of adventure, humor, and emotional depth has garnered a dedicated fanbase, making Doctor Who a cultural phenomenon since its debut in 1963. With its imaginative storytelling and rich mythology, the series continues to inspire generations and remains a cornerstone of British television.

For All Mankind

The Orville

The Orville is a sci-fi comedy-drama series created by Seth MacFarlane that pays homage to classic space operas while delivering a fresh take on the genre. Set in the 25th century, the show follows the crew of the USS Orville, a mid-level exploratory spaceship navigating the challenges of interstellar travel and diplomacy. Led by Captain Ed Mercer, the diverse crew faces a variety of alien species, moral dilemmas, and personal conflicts, blending humor with thought-provoking themes about society, culture, and the human experience. The series is noted for its clever writing, character development, and ability to tackle serious issues while maintaining a light-hearted tone, making it a unique addition to the science fiction landscape.