On this day in 1960 (in the United Kingdom), the BBC broke new ground while heading to the stars by launching Pathfinders In Space onto its airwaves. (Two subsequent series -- Pathfinders To Venus and Pathfinders To Mars -- followed in later television series.) Allegedly, this one is largely forgotten by so many as the impending arrival of Doctor Who pretty much stole the spotlight; but viewers who remember it still praise the show's early installments for its dedication to depicting space exploration with a healthy degree of realism, fraught with successes and dangers alike. Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Professor Norman Wedgewood and his team are planning another rocket mission to the Moon. Once again, Geoff, Valerie and Jimmy are on hand to witness the launch of a new rocket MR1 (Moon Rocket 1), along with journalist friend Conway Henderson."
"Professor Norman Wedgewood and his team are planning another rocket mission to the Moon. Once again, Geoff, Valerie and Jimmy are on hand to witness the launch of a new rocket MR1 (Moon Rocket 1), along with journalist friend Conway Henderson."
Throughout the years, so very much of Science Fiction has included various explorations of mankind's dim future (and you kids thought Global Warming and Nuclear annihilation was unique to your generation, eh?), and why not begin indoctrinating our youth to their grim tomorrow? Especially when you can cast it with a Star Trek style cast and even give the show a chimpanzee for good measure for good measure? Such was the case with TV's Ark II, the tale of three scientists (and their ape) travelling what's left of a pollution-devastated Earth, seeking survivors, and doing good deeds. I remember this one fondly from the days of my youth, mostly because who wouldn't want to have this incredibly cool space-aged RV? Alas, it lasted but a single season ...
Oh, those poor, poor mad scientists! They do so get typecast, all of them loving their shrinking rays as they do! Well, as fate would have it, on this day in 1976, U.S. Saturday morning television dipped deep into the well of Science Fiction for the premiere of the nefarious Dr. Shrinker, a kid-friendly serial that gave Jay Robinson some scenery to chew. This SciFi/Comedy explored the world of three high school students who were -- you guessed it -- shrunk in size and forced to co-habitate through a single season of adventures and misadventures. This one was a production brought to life jointly by Sid & Marty Krofft Television Productions and (believe it or not) the Osmond family. Go figure!
Science Fiction and the young and heart have always gone hand-in-hand. Today's evidence: a little something something called Read All About It premiered on this day in 1979 in the great nation state of Canada. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the premise behind the program:
"A group of kids investigate and oppose an extra-terrestrial conspiracy against their town as a community newspaper staff."
"A group of kids investigate and oppose an extra-terrestrial conspiracy against their town as a community newspaper staff."
Chalk this one up to another I know by name only: on this day in 1994, Mega Man (or Megaman, depending upon the website) was a TV adaptation based on a popular video game of its era, and I honestly know next-to-nothing about its existence except for the occasional blurb I've stumbled across in my ongoing research. It seems to have amassed a fairly respectable following (I've even happened across a few references to potential motion picture attempts as well as rebooted series), and -- for now -- I'll have to leave you with what IMDB.com says the program was all about:
"Based off of the popular video game, Megaman. In the year 200X, robot scientists Dr. Thomas Light and Dr. Albert Wily were completing their special project, robot assistants, which will help humans with everyday work. However, Dr. Wily had secretly reprogrammed the robots into fighting machines. Wily intends to use these robots to take over the world. After Dr. Light learned of this, he had decided to reprogram one of his robots, Rock (his male robot assistant). Dr. Light gave Rock state-of-the-art combat technology, with the ability to copy another robot's weapon, thus Dr. light created Megaman. Now, Megaman has to stop Dr. Wily and his band of robots from taking over the world."
"Based off of the popular video game, Megaman. In the year 200X, robot scientists Dr. Thomas Light and Dr. Albert Wily were completing their special project, robot assistants, which will help humans with everyday work. However, Dr. Wily had secretly reprogrammed the robots into fighting machines. Wily intends to use these robots to take over the world. After Dr. Light learned of this, he had decided to reprogram one of his robots, Rock (his male robot assistant). Dr. Light gave Rock state-of-the-art combat technology, with the ability to copy another robot's weapon, thus Dr. light created Megaman. Now, Megaman has to stop Dr. Wily and his band of robots from taking over the world."
Go ahead. Ask me about my unabashed love for anything to do with Star Wars: The Clone Wars. I hope you'll have the weeks it would take me to explain it to you. While actor Ian Abercrombie is no doubt best known for playing the infamous Mr. Pitt on NBC's Seinfeld, I prefer to remember him for the voice work he did late in his life, playing the Emperor Palpatine on The Clone Wars or (better still) the Guardian Ganthet on the vastly under-appreciated Green Lantern: The Animated Series. Though he's no longer with us, Abercrombie was born on this day in 1934.
Anne Seymour's last film role was as the kind, small-town newspaper editor for Chisolm in Field of Dreams (1989), but that wasn't her only appearance in genre work. She also enjoyed screen time aboard Land of the Giants, Planet of the Apes, Mr. Merlin, and Trancers (1984). Though she's no longer with us, Seymour was born on this day in 1909. [Source: IMDB.com]
For a certain generation of movie lovers, the late Herbert Lom will likely always be remembered for his work aboard the Pink Panther series of films. Genre fans know him for his work in Journey to the Far Side of the Sun (1969) and the great cinematic adaptation of Stephen King's The Dead Zone (1983). Though he's no longer with us, Lom was born on this day in 1917. [Source: IMDB.com]
When the Children of the Damned (1964) reared their collectively threatening heads, it was Alan Badel (above left) who joined others to stand against the menace. Though he's no longer with us, Badel was born on this day in 1923. [Source: IMDB.com]
So far as this SciFi geek is concerned, anyone who's ever shared the screen with Robbie the Robot deserves a place in film history, and that's just what Earl Holliman did ... he shared the screen -- albeit briefly -- with the seminal robot of my youth in 1956's Forbidden Planet. The actor also lent his acting clout to such genre properties as The Twilight Zone, The Six Million Dollar Man, and NightMan. Holliman was born on this day in 1928.
I can remember Charles Dierkop from a solid handful of television properties in my youth -- the most prominent of which will always be Star Trek's "Wolf In The Fold" -- and he continues to pop up from time to time in other projects. He's been a part of Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea, Lost In Space, Land of the Giants, Star Virgin (1979), Invisible Dad (1998), and Superguy: Behind The Cape (2000). Dierkop was born on this day in 1936. [Source: IMDB.com]
Director Brian De Palma took time out for more conventional thrillers to direct the SciFi/Drama Mission To Mars back in 2000. De Palma was born on this day in 1940. [Source: IMDB.com]
There's a right way and a wrong way to administer a law enforcement program as complex as the Robocop one, and that's why Felton Perry hung around for the first three movies as a representative of OCP. Perry was born on this day in 1945.
In a case of life imitating art -- especially when you consider his work aboard the revered Slaughterhouse-Five (1972) -- the career of Michael Sacks deserves another look. Essentially, he burst onto professional scene with his work in the aforementioned film; and after amassing a resume of a mere fourteen credits, he disappeared from the entertainment industry ... much in the same way 'Billy Pilgrim' disappeared from time. Curious. Curious, indeed. Sacks was born on this day in 1948. [Source: IMDB.com]
Amy Madigan played a recurring guest role as Marilyn Dunham aboard Fox TV's stellar Fringe (pictured above). Madigan was born on this day in 1950.
The terrific Jenny Gago has tiptoed her way into a handful of quality SciFi projects, including screen time aboard Innerspace (1987), Alien Nation (TV), Quantum Leap, The X-Files, The Invisible Man, and Lost. Gago was born on this day in 1953. [Source: IMDB.com]
With over five decades in the entertainment business, one might wonder why the talented Reed Birney doesn't have more genre appearances. Still, fans have learned to take what they can get, and he's been involved with Tales From The Crypt and DC Comics' Titans. Birney was born on this day in 1954. [Source: IMDB.com]
The talented Adriane Lenox continues to secure quality work across all genres of entertainment, but so far as our little corner of the woods goes she's been seen aboard The Sorcerer's Apprentice (2010) and Netflix's Daredevil. Lenox was born on this day in 1956. [Source: IMDB.com]
Tony Gilroy was one of the talented screenwriter who helped the Walt Disney Company and Lucasfilm bring Rogue One (2016) to the silver screen. Gilroy was born on this day in 1956. [Source: IMDB.com]
So far as this Star Trek enthusiast is concerned, Roxann Dawson -- better known as B'Elanna Torres on Star Trek: Voyager -- has one of the loveliest faces in all of the Klingon Empire and beyond. Her portrayal of the 'halfbreed' was the perfect balance of humanity and menace, and she knew a thing or two about whipping an Engineering Department into shape. Ms. Dawson was born on this day back in 1958.
As I've always said: "You drive the Enterprise, and you're going to get featured here!" But thankfully Julia Nickson's career in SciFi never stopped there. While she's arguably much more well known for appearing as the kinda/sorta love interest for Sylvester Stallone in Rambo: First Blood Part 2, this lovely lady has also visited the merry worlds of Airwolf, Star Trek: The Next Generation (pictured above at the helm), Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Babylon 5, SeaQuest 2032, and Power Rangers Wild Force. Nickson was born on this day in 1958.
I suspect Scott Patterson's fans will always fondly remember him as the gruff yet occasionally soft-spoken Luke Danes from the WB's well-written Gilmore Girls, but genre fans know him from his work in NBC's The Event. Patterson was born on this day in 1958.
Veteran character actor John Hawkes has an impressive record in some amazing projects, ABC TV's Lost notwithstanding (pictured above right). Hawkes has also played in the realms of The Adventures of Brisco County Jr., Millennium, The X-Files, and Taken. Hawkes was born on this day in 1959.
Early in her career, the great Anne Ramsay appeared both on the bridge of the starship Enterprise-D as well as in engineering for Star Trek: The Next Generation. The versatile actress has also turned up in Critters IV, the Tim Burton (failed) reboot of Planet of the Apes, and CBS's Extant. Ramsay was born on this day in 1960.
With nearly 200 different screen credits to her name, there probably isn't much that the lovely Elizabeth Daily hasn't done. Genre fans know her work from such projects as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (animated), Roughnecks: The Starship Troopers Chronicles (animated), Gen13 (2000), The Powerpuff Girls (animated), and much, much more. Daily was born on this day in 1961. [Source: IMDB.com]
The great Susan Gibney joined Star Trek: The Next Generation as the brain Leah Leah Brahms for a few episodes, and then she appeared on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine in a completely different guest role. Gibney was born on this day in 1961.
So far as I'm concerned, Virginia Madsen can do no wrong. She first caught my eye in a clever little SciFi romantic comedy called Creator (1985), and I've enjoyed every appearance of hers ever since. Mainstream SciFi fans probably know her best from work in Star Trek: Voyager, The Astronaut Farmer, and as Senator Catherine Lewis on NBC's single season outing The Event; and let's just hope she continues to shine on the big and small screens. Madsen was born on this day in 1961.
When she was but an urchin, a young Kristy McNichol enjoyed a guest visit to the world of TV's popular The Bionic Woman. McNichol was born on this day in 1962. [Source: IMDB.com]
The menacing Andrew Jackson played the menacing 'The General' aboard Syfy's Dark Matter on a few occasions. The talented actor has also enjoyed screen time aboard Highlander, Specimen (1996), PSI Factor, Universal Soldier II: Brothers In Arms (1998), Highlander: The Raven, Millennium Man (1999), Stargate: SG-1, Earth: Final Conflict, Smallville, Andromeda, Kyle XY, The Dead Zone, Warehouse 13, and Lost Girl. Jackson was born on this day in 1963. [Source: IMDB.com]
Big-band crooner Harry Connick Jr. yucked it up playing Will Smith's ill-fated wingman in 1996's mega-blockbuster Independence Day. As is so often the case, the comic-relief-sidekick wasn't long for that world, and Harry left the stage being blasted into atoms not long after his silly introduction. Methinks he won't be back for the sequel, should those ever transpire. Connick Jr. was born on this day in 1967.
Critical favorite Taraji P. Henson made a suitable splash aboard the SciFi-lite/Drama Person Of Interest for much of its run on CBS. Henson was born on this day in 1970. [Source: IMDB.com]
Rapper-turned-actor Ludacris dipped his talented toes into the realm of Science Fiction and Fantasy with a supporting role aboard Gamer (2009) for Lionsgate. Ludacris was born on this day in 1977. [Source: IMDB.com]
Not long after her big screen appearance in Tremors (1990), the lovely little lady Ariana Richards joined Steven Spielberg and company in bringing Michael Crichton's novel Jurassic Park to the cinemas. Most recently, she showed her tough stuff with a role in Battledogs (pictured above). Richards was born on this day in 1979.
Cameron Richardson enjoyed some breakout success with a role in TV's somewhat creepy Point Pleasant. Since then, she's continued to build a solid reputation, even dabbling in SciFi with a role in The Lottery. Richardson was born on this day in 1979.
In just over two decades as an actress, Tiffany Shepis has played in well over 100 different projects, including Citizen Toxie: The Toxic Avenger IV (2000), The Prometheus Project (2010), Sharknado 2: The Second One (2014), and 12 Monkeys (above right). Shepis was born on this day in 1979.
I haven't seen 2015's Identicals, though the title has popped up on my research a few times. I have read some wildly conflicting reviews of the feature, so I'll definitely have to check it out in order to satisfy my own curiosity. In any event, Lachlan Nieboer headlined the SciFi thriller, and Nieboer was born on this day in 1981.
Elizabeth Henstridge is doing what she can to keep our world safe from nefarious forms of evil as part of ABC TV's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Henstridge was born on this day in 1987.
Lo and behold, TV's Supergirl went a step further into the Supes mythology by appearing Big Blue himself, Superman, into its universe, and the Last Son Of Krypton was played by Tyler Hoechlin. Hoechlin was born on this day in 1987.
Science Fiction has earned another sparkling newcomer, and her name is Mackenzie Aladjem! She enjoyed a bit of screen time aboard Time Toys (2016) for Snowfall Films. Aladjem was born on this day in 2001. [Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1959 (in West Germany), the SciFi/Drama The World, The Fresh, And The Devil enjoyed theatrical release. Directed by Randal MacDougall, the feature starred Harry Belafonte and Inger Stevens, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Ralph Burton is a miner who is trapped for several days as a result of a cave-in. When he finally manages to dig himself out, he realizes that all of mankind seems to have been destroyed in a nuclear holocaust. He travels to New York City only to find it deserted. Making a life for himself there, he is flabbergasted to eventually find Sarah Crandall, who also managed to survive. Together, they form a close friendship until the arrival of Benson Thacker who has managed to pilot his small boat into the city's harbor. At this point the tensions rise between the three, particularly between Thacker, who is white and Burton, who is black."
"Ralph Burton is a miner who is trapped for several days as a result of a cave-in. When he finally manages to dig himself out, he realizes that all of mankind seems to have been destroyed in a nuclear holocaust. He travels to New York City only to find it deserted. Making a life for himself there, he is flabbergasted to eventually find Sarah Crandall, who also managed to survive. Together, they form a close friendship until the arrival of Benson Thacker who has managed to pilot his small boat into the city's harbor. At this point the tensions rise between the three, particularly between Thacker, who is white and Burton, who is black."
On this day in 1961 (in Sweden), Invasion Of The Saucer Men landed in theatres. Directed by Edward L. Cahn, the feature starred Steven Terrell and Gloria Castillo, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A teenage couple making out in the woods accidentally runs over an alien creature with their car. The creature's hand falls off, but it comes alive, and, with an eye growing out of it, begins to stalk the teens. Meanwhile, Joe the town drunk wants to store the body in his refrigerator, but some of the alien's buddies inject alcohol into his system, and Joe dies of an overdose."
"A teenage couple making out in the woods accidentally runs over an alien creature with their car. The creature's hand falls off, but it comes alive, and, with an eye growing out of it, begins to stalk the teens. Meanwhile, Joe the town drunk wants to store the body in his refrigerator, but some of the alien's buddies inject alcohol into his system, and Joe dies of an overdose."
On this day in 1968 (in West Germany), 2001: A Space Odyssey helped established Science Fiction as the subject of legitimate art-house pursuits. Directed by Stanley Kubrick, the feature starred Keir Dullea and Gary Lockwood, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
"After discovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, mankind sets off on a quest to find its origins with help from intelligent supercomputer H.A.L. 9000."
On this day in 1975 (in Italy and the Netherlands), Rollerball skated onto the silver screen. Directed by Norman Jewison, the SciFi/Drama starred James Caan and John Houseman, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a corporate-controlled future, an ultra-violent sport known as Rollerball represents the world, and one of its powerful athletes is out to defy those who want him out of the game."
"In a corporate-controlled future, an ultra-violent sport known as Rollerball represents the world, and one of its powerful athletes is out to defy those who want him out of the game."
On this day in 1980 (in Canada), Death Watch played for audiences in attendance of the Toronto International Film Festival. Directed by Bertrand Tavernier, the SciFi/Drama starred Harvey Keitel and Romy Schneider, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a future where dying of illness is exceedingly rare, a terminally ill woman becomes a celebrity and a man with camera implants goes to secretly record her for a morbid TV show."
"In a future where dying of illness is exceedingly rare, a terminally ill woman becomes a celebrity and a man with camera implants goes to secretly record her for a morbid TV show."
On this day in 1980 (in the Netherlands), Walt Disney's The Black Hole took audiences on a journey truly where no man had gone before. Directed by Gary Nelson, the SciFi feature starred Robert Forster and Anthony Perkins, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A research vessel finds a missing ship, commanded by a mysterious scientist, on the edge of a black hole."
"A research vessel finds a missing ship, commanded by a mysterious scientist, on the edge of a black hole."
On this day in 1985, Interface premiered in the United States. The feature starred John S. Davis and Lauren Lane, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"A group of strange beings at a master computer control room use their equipment to kill people by remote control."
"A group of strange beings at a master computer control room use their equipment to kill people by remote control."
On this day in 1987, The Curse enjoyed a limited theatrical release in the United States. Directed by David Keith, the SciFi/Horror starred Wil Wheaton and Claude Akins, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When a meteorite lands near his family farm during a storm in Tennessee, the son of a struggling farmer believes it's connected to strange plague-like events afflicting the crops, the farm animals and even the family themselves."
"When a meteorite lands near his family farm during a storm in Tennessee, the son of a struggling farmer believes it's connected to strange plague-like events afflicting the crops, the farm animals and even the family themselves."
On this day in 1991 (in Portugal), the 1957-produced SciFi/Drama The Night The World Exploded played for audiences in attendance of the Cinemateca Portuguesa. Directed by Fred F. Sears, the feature starred Kathryn Grant and William Leslie, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"Dr. Conway has perfected a machine which he believes will predict earthquakes, and has determined that one will strike California within 24 hours. He and his patron, Dr. Morton, attempt to convince the Governor but he cannot bring himself to declare an emergency when there is no proof the machine works - which, within 24 hours, it is proven to do. More significantly, Conway is getting readings which indicate a series of additional, pending quakes around the world, which also begin to occur; and more still seem to be on the way. With his assistant "Hutch", to whose love for him he seems oblivious, Conway takes his equipment to the deepest point of Carlsbad Caverns, in hopes that being closer to the center of the earth will help discern the cause of the earthquake epidemic. It does, when they inadvertently discover a new element which lies dormant in watery pools deep within the earth but, when in contact with air, becomes violently explosive."
"Dr. Conway has perfected a machine which he believes will predict earthquakes, and has determined that one will strike California within 24 hours. He and his patron, Dr. Morton, attempt to convince the Governor but he cannot bring himself to declare an emergency when there is no proof the machine works - which, within 24 hours, it is proven to do. More significantly, Conway is getting readings which indicate a series of additional, pending quakes around the world, which also begin to occur; and more still seem to be on the way. With his assistant "Hutch", to whose love for him he seems oblivious, Conway takes his equipment to the deepest point of Carlsbad Caverns, in hopes that being closer to the center of the earth will help discern the cause of the earthquake epidemic. It does, when they inadvertently discover a new element which lies dormant in watery pools deep within the earth but, when in contact with air, becomes violently explosive."
On this day in 1999 (in South Korea), Interceptor Force intercepted interested audiences. The feature starred Olivier Gruner and Brad Dourif, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"In the near future, the government has created an elite team of soldiers specially trained in the event of a hostile alien encounter. A multi-national force of the world's best, they are known as the Interceptor Force. A covert early warning satellite network tracks an object crash landing in a town in the Pacific Northwest. Within minutes of the impact, all communication with the town is mysteriously severed."
"In the near future, the government has created an elite team of soldiers specially trained in the event of a hostile alien encounter. A multi-national force of the world's best, they are known as the Interceptor Force. A covert early warning satellite network tracks an object crash landing in a town in the Pacific Northwest. Within minutes of the impact, all communication with the town is mysteriously severed."
On this day in 1999, Storm enjoyed its release in the U.S. home video market. The SciFi-Lite feature starred Luke Perry and Alexandra Powers, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"A meteorologist sets out to derail the top secret weather-manipulating program he mistakenly became a part of."
"A meteorologist sets out to derail the top secret weather-manipulating program he mistakenly became a part of."
A star is born! On this day in 2009 (in Italy), Mr. Nobody enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever when it played for audiences in attendance of the Venice Film Festival. Written and directed by Jaco Van Dormael, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Jared Leto, Sarah Polley, and Diane Kruger. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A boy stands on a station platform as a train is about to leave. Should he go with his mother or stay with his father? Infinite possibilities arise from this decision. As long as he doesn't choose, anything is possible."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mr. Nobody garnered a wealth of attention from the film festival circuit and beyond, including nominations and trophies from such events as the European Film Awards, Belgium's Magritte Awards, and the Venice Film Festival.
"A boy stands on a station platform as a train is about to leave. Should he go with his mother or stay with his father? Infinite possibilities arise from this decision. As long as he doesn't choose, anything is possible."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mr. Nobody garnered a wealth of attention from the film festival circuit and beyond, including nominations and trophies from such events as the European Film Awards, Belgium's Magritte Awards, and the Venice Film Festival.
On this day in 2010, the Fantasy/Telefilm Mandrake found its place on television. Directed by Tripp Reed, the feature starred Max Martini and Betsy Russell, and here's the premise listed on IMDB.com:
"An expedition led by adventurer Darren McCall and funded by the wealthy Harry Vargas braves the impenetrable jungle to retrieve a fabled bejeweled dagger from an ancient burial ground. But pulling the dagger from its rightful resting place awakens the long-dormant plant creature - part plant, part animal, and all bloodthirsty -- and sends it on a feeding frenzy from which there seems scant hope of survival or escape..."
"An expedition led by adventurer Darren McCall and funded by the wealthy Harry Vargas braves the impenetrable jungle to retrieve a fabled bejeweled dagger from an ancient burial ground. But pulling the dagger from its rightful resting place awakens the long-dormant plant creature - part plant, part animal, and all bloodthirsty -- and sends it on a feeding frenzy from which there seems scant hope of survival or escape..."
On this day in 2015, the award-winning film Listening was released both theatrically and digitally. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's what you need to know about the feature:
"A team of genius-but-broke grad students invent mind-reading technology that destroys their lives and threatens the future of free-will itself."
"A team of genius-but-broke grad students invent mind-reading technology that destroys their lives and threatens the future of free-will itself."
On this day in 2018, 7 Splinters In Time enjoyed its home video debut as well as a launch on various U.S. streaming services. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A detective investigates a murder, only to find that the victim is... himself. Soon, he discovers multiple versions of himself, not all of them friendly."
"A detective investigates a murder, only to find that the victim is... himself. Soon, he discovers multiple versions of himself, not all of them friendly."
On this day in 1954, Captain Midnight aired "Electronic Killer." This served as the second episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed on IMDB.com:
"Dereck Strange, calls Jet Jackson requesting a meeting at the rocket proving grounds. At the presentation it is noticed Strange is absent. After the successful test Jackson goes to investigate Dereck's disappearance. Elsewhere Stange, has been abducted and forced to reveal the secrets of the rockets. Following a series of clues pertaining to Greek Gods, Jackson tracks down the kidnappers. Jackson arrives at their lair to find three of the kidnappers, but they have already disposed of Strange. Jackson discovers the scientist is on the next plane destined to be shot in tests. Ikky fails to stop the test and at the last second Jackson and Strange parachute to safety."
"Dereck Strange, calls Jet Jackson requesting a meeting at the rocket proving grounds. At the presentation it is noticed Strange is absent. After the successful test Jackson goes to investigate Dereck's disappearance. Elsewhere Stange, has been abducted and forced to reveal the secrets of the rockets. Following a series of clues pertaining to Greek Gods, Jackson tracks down the kidnappers. Jackson arrives at their lair to find three of the kidnappers, but they have already disposed of Strange. Jackson discovers the scientist is on the next plane destined to be shot in tests. Ikky fails to stop the test and at the last second Jackson and Strange parachute to safety."
On this day in 1954, Space Patrol aired "The Space Patrol Periscope." Officially, this served as the twenty-ninth episode in the program's fourth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When Major Robertson and other members of the Space Patrol are abducted by Manza, an invisible being from a solar system light years from Terra, Commander Buzz Corry and Cadet Happy race to the rescue. While Manza tortures Robbie in an effort to force him to blow up Buzz and Corry, the Space Patrol officers attempt to sneak into Manza's fortress and rescue their friend before he comes to harm. Meanwhile a squadron of Icardians trying to regain their homeland hovers above the planet as they prepare to bombard Manza's fortress with deadly heat rays."
"When Major Robertson and other members of the Space Patrol are abducted by Manza, an invisible being from a solar system light years from Terra, Commander Buzz Corry and Cadet Happy race to the rescue. While Manza tortures Robbie in an effort to force him to blow up Buzz and Corry, the Space Patrol officers attempt to sneak into Manza's fortress and rescue their friend before he comes to harm. Meanwhile a squadron of Icardians trying to regain their homeland hovers above the planet as they prepare to bombard Manza's fortress with deadly heat rays."
It all began right here: on this day in 1960 (in the United Kingdom), television entered the Space Race with the premiere of Pathfinders In Space. Officially, this first episode was titled "Convoy To The Moon," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A mission to the Moon is put in peril when one of the rockets develops a malfunction in its guidance system shortly after take off. A second rocket launches in a desperate effort to save the crew."
"A mission to the Moon is put in peril when one of the rockets develops a malfunction in its guidance system shortly after take off. A second rocket launches in a desperate effort to save the crew."
On this day in 1965 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "Four Hundred Dawns." (For purists, this episode was part of the greater Galaxy Four storyline.) Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After an encounter with a hostile robot called a Chumblie, the Doctor and his companions are rescued by a group of female Drahvins."
"After an encounter with a hostile robot called a Chumblie, the Doctor and his companions are rescued by a group of female Drahvins."
On this day in 1975 (in the United Kingdom), Space:1999 aired its second episode, an hour titled "Force of Life." Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A wandering energy force inhabits the body of Alpha technician Anton Zoref, turning him into an energy absorbing being."
"A wandering energy force inhabits the body of Alpha technician Anton Zoref, turning him into an energy absorbing being."
It all began right here: on this day in 1976, Ark II made its television premiere. The first episode was titled "The Flies," and here's the plot summary as detailed on IMDB.com:
"A band of orphans led by the thieving Fagon have found canisters of poison gas that they plan to use against the bullying War Lords. The Ark II crew must intervene to prevent mass murder."
"A band of orphans led by the thieving Fagon have found canisters of poison gas that they plan to use against the bullying War Lords. The Ark II crew must intervene to prevent mass murder."
On this day in 1976 (in the United Kingdom), Doctor Who aired "The Masque Of Mandragora: Part 2." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's fourteenth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Doctor rushes to rescue Sarah from the Brethren of Demnos while Mandragora tries to bring them under its control."
"The Doctor rushes to rescue Sarah from the Brethren of Demnos while Mandragora tries to bring them under its control."
It all began right here: on this day in 1976, Dr. Shrinker opened his doors for business in the way that only a mad, mad, mad scientist with a shrink ray could. The first episode was titled "Pardon Me, King Kong, But Is That You?" and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Dr. Shinker sends a monkey out to capture the shrinkies and soon discovers the beast has no loyalty when the monkey helps the shrinkies escape."
"Dr. Shinker sends a monkey out to capture the shrinkies and soon discovers the beast has no loyalty when the monkey helps the shrinkies escape."
On this day in 1976, Land of the Lost aired "After-Shock." This served as the first episode of the program's third (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Rick is transported back to the real world just as his brother Jack arrives searching for the family. The Marshalls' cave dwelling is destroyed in an earthquake, so they take up residence in the temple at the Lost City, much to the chagrin of the Sleestak."
"Rick is transported back to the real world just as his brother Jack arrives searching for the family. The Marshalls' cave dwelling is destroyed in an earthquake, so they take up residence in the temple at the Lost City, much to the chagrin of the Sleestak."
On this day in 1976 (in the United Kingdom), Space:1999 aired the second episode of its second season, an hour of action called "The Exiles." Here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"With Maya now a crew member the Alphans discover a young couple called Cantor and Zova who have been in suspended animation for some while. They claim that they are exiles from the planet Golos, following an invasion, and ask for the help of Alphan crew members to restore the planet to them. Helena and Tony accompany them to the planet Golos, where it is apparent that they are not the young innocents they appeared to be."
"With Maya now a crew member the Alphans discover a young couple called Cantor and Zova who have been in suspended animation for some while. They claim that they are exiles from the planet Golos, following an invasion, and ask for the help of Alphan crew members to restore the planet to them. Helena and Tony accompany them to the planet Golos, where it is apparent that they are not the young innocents they appeared to be."
It all began right here: on this day in 1979 (in Canada), Read All About It was broadcast over the television airwaves. Officially, this first episode was titled "The Coach House," and here's the plot summary as provided by IMBD.com:
"Chris Anderson inherits The Coach House which belonged to his uncle who is presumed dead. When Chris and his friends go to check it out, they meet Otto and Theta, his uncle's computers, who warn the children of a conspiracy in Herbertville."
"Chris Anderson inherits The Coach House which belonged to his uncle who is presumed dead. When Chris and his friends go to check it out, they meet Otto and Theta, his uncle's computers, who warn the children of a conspiracy in Herbertville."
It all came down to this: on this day in 1979, TV's incarnation of the popular DC Comics character Wonder Woman bowed out of its original broadcast production with the airing of "Phantom Of The Roller Coaster: Part 2." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Wonder Woman's strength, ability and quick action saves hundreds of people from a disastrous accident at an amusement park. Part two of a two-part episode."
"Wonder Woman's strength, ability and quick action saves hundreds of people from a disastrous accident at an amusement park. Part two of a two-part episode."
On this day in 1990 (in West Germany), Buck himself woke up in the distant future with the airing of Buck Rogers In The 25th Century's "Awakening: Part 2." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In 1987, a space phenomenon sends NASA astronaut William "Buck" Rogers and his space shuttle off course and freezes his life support systems for 500 years. In 2491, he awakens aboard the flagship Draconia, under the command of Princess Ardala and her henchman Kane, a former native of Earth. The Draconians repair Buck's shuttle, but secretly plant a homing beacon aboard to track a path through Earth's defense shield. Upon arriving on Earth, Buck learns that everyone he knew had perished in a nuclear holocaust and Earth has been rebuilt over the centuries. However, he must adjust to the 25th century, and convince the Earth Defense Directorate that the Draconians are secretly planning to conquer Earth."
"In 1987, a space phenomenon sends NASA astronaut William "Buck" Rogers and his space shuttle off course and freezes his life support systems for 500 years. In 2491, he awakens aboard the flagship Draconia, under the command of Princess Ardala and her henchman Kane, a former native of Earth. The Draconians repair Buck's shuttle, but secretly plant a homing beacon aboard to track a path through Earth's defense shield. Upon arriving on Earth, Buck learns that everyone he knew had perished in a nuclear holocaust and Earth has been rebuilt over the centuries. However, he must adjust to the 25th century, and convince the Earth Defense Directorate that the Draconians are secretly planning to conquer Earth."
On this day in 1992 (in France), The Ray Bradbury Theater aired "By The Numbers." Officially, this served as the fifth episode in the program's sixth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The manager of a hotel pool drills his young son with military precision, leading to tragedy."
"The manager of a hotel pool drills his young son with military precision, leading to tragedy."
It all began right here: a hero is born on this day in 1994 with the television premiere of Mega Man. Officially, "The Beginning" was the title of the first episode, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After getting knocked out in battle, Mega Man has a dream flashing back to when he was first created by Doctor Light and how he reprogrammed him into the Blue Bomber he is today."
"After getting knocked out in battle, Mega Man has a dream flashing back to when he was first created by Doctor Light and how he reprogrammed him into the Blue Bomber he is today."
On this day in 1995, Ocean Girl aired "Sabotage." This served as the eleventh episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Jason takes Neri and Mera swimming off the ORCA platform. Mick finds out and heads out on a jetski, he falls off and must be rescued by the girls. Neri helps Mick with his reading, he in turn joins the others in keeping Neri and Mera a secret."
"Jason takes Neri and Mera swimming off the ORCA platform. Mick finds out and heads out on a jetski, he falls off and must be rescued by the girls. Neri helps Mick with his reading, he in turn joins the others in keeping Neri and Mera a secret."
On this day in 1995, Star Trek: Voyager aired "Projections." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The doctor tries to determine what is real and what is not when he is activated due to what appears to be a ship-wide emergency."
"The doctor tries to determine what is real and what is not when he is activated due to what appears to be a ship-wide emergency."
On this day in 1996 -- as part of its franchise's thirtieth anniversary -- Star Trek: Voyager aired the very special episode titled "Flashback." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"Nearness to a class-17 nebula triggers a repressed memory in Tuvok, which can be a life-threatening condition for Vulcans. Janeway, as the closest thing to a trusted family member, agrees to mind-meld with Tuvok to ease him through it safely. Together they travel back in memory to when Tuvok served under Captain Sulu aboard the U.S.S. Excelsior."
"Nearness to a class-17 nebula triggers a repressed memory in Tuvok, which can be a life-threatening condition for Vulcans. Janeway, as the closest thing to a trusted family member, agrees to mind-meld with Tuvok to ease him through it safely. Together they travel back in memory to when Tuvok served under Captain Sulu aboard the U.S.S. Excelsior."
On this day in 2004, Justice League Unlimited aired "The Greatest Story Never Told." This served as the seventh episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed on IMDB.com:
"The Justice League battle Mordru in the background, while the narrative follows Booster Gold as he attempts to close a walking black hole while he's supposed to be on "crowd control.""
"The Justice League battle Mordru in the background, while the narrative follows Booster Gold as he attempts to close a walking black hole while he's supposed to be on "crowd control.""
On this day in 2007, Eureka aired "God Is In The Details." This served as the tenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Zoe and her friends lose their voices, but whatever is causing the symptoms has an even worse effect on Allison and her only hope comes from an unusual source."
"Zoe and her friends lose their voices, but whatever is causing the symptoms has an even worse effect on Allison and her only hope comes from an unusual source."
On this day in 2008, Gemini Division aired "Dead-End." Officially, this served as the twelfth episode in the program's only season alive, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"After an encounter with a SIM Anna wants in to Gemini Division."
"After an encounter with a SIM Anna wants in to Gemini Division."
On this day in 2009, Eureka aired "Have An Ice Day." Officially, this served as the seventeenth episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"An immense ice core from Russia threatens to turn Eureka into a giant ice cube and the residents into icicles."
"An immense ice core from Russia threatens to turn Eureka into a giant ice cube and the residents into icicles."
On this day in 2015, Continuum aired "Lost Hours." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's fourth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Newly arrived time travelers threaten to destroy Kiera and her alliance with Brad. But can her reignited desire to return to her own time and son be reconciled with the threat they now pose?"
"Newly arrived time travelers threaten to destroy Kiera and her alliance with Brad. But can her reignited desire to return to her own time and son be reconciled with the threat they now pose?"
On this day in 2015, Z Nation aired "The Murphy." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Season 2 picks up where Season 1 left off, moments after the launch of the tactical nuclear weapons triggered by Murphy. It's every man for him/herself. Our Heroes split up as they try to outrun the impending blast. Citizen Z finds himself battling thawed zombies and unable to communicate with the team. In a desperate attempt to help them out on their quest to get to California and the CDC, Citizen Z issues an on air bounty for Murphy. Suddenly everyone wants a piece of the Murphy, including a mysterious and deadly bounty hunter, Vasquez."
"Season 2 picks up where Season 1 left off, moments after the launch of the tactical nuclear weapons triggered by Murphy. It's every man for him/herself. Our Heroes split up as they try to outrun the impending blast. Citizen Z finds himself battling thawed zombies and unable to communicate with the team. In a desperate attempt to help them out on their quest to get to California and the CDC, Citizen Z issues an on air bounty for Murphy. Suddenly everyone wants a piece of the Murphy, including a mysterious and deadly bounty hunter, Vasquez."
