25 Space-Set TV Shows That Have Nothing to Do with Star Trek or Star Wars

Science fiction on TV isn’t just about the biggest franchises anymore. There’s a growing number of shows offering space adventures, ranging from realistic, science-based stories to more fantastical space operas and comedies. These series create unique worlds with everything from intense political conflicts and scary alien invasions to fun, lighthearted journeys through the universe. Here are twenty-five must-watch space-based shows that aren’t connected to the Star Trek or Star Wars universes.

‘The Expanse’ (2015–2022)

Across the solar system, humans have settled on Earth, Mars, and the Asteroid Belt, but deep tensions exist between these groups. When a tough detective and a rebellious spaceship captain stumble upon a huge conspiracy linked to a powerful alien technology, everything changes. As different sides fight for control of this mysterious substance – called the protomolecule – political disagreements explode into full-scale war. The series is known for its realistic science and intricate political storylines.

‘Battlestar Galactica’ (2004–2009)

After a devastating attack by the Cylons – a robotic race – the last humans are scattered across the galaxy, desperately searching for a new home. Commander William Adama guides a makeshift fleet of civilian ships, with the warship Galactica as their main protection, on a quest for the legendary planet Earth. Mistrust and fear grip the fleet, as the Cylons have become incredibly advanced, able to appear indistinguishable from humans. This updated version of the original series delves into complex issues of survival and the dangers of artificial intelligence.

‘Firefly’ (2002–2003)

Captain Malcolm Reynolds commands a crew of outlaws and those on the run aboard the spaceship Serenity. They travel to the far reaches of the galaxy, taking on various jobs while trying to stay hidden from the powerful governing body known as the Alliance. The show uniquely combines the feel of classic westerns with the excitement of space adventures, creating a rough and realistic world. Despite lasting only one season, it gained a huge and dedicated fanbase thanks to its clever writing and engaging characters.

‘Babylon 5’ (1994–1998)

I’ve always been captivated by the idea of Babylon 5 – this incredible space station that’s meant to be a meeting place for all sorts of alien races. It’s fascinating to watch Commander Sheridan and his team try to keep the peace and manage all the old grudges and political games. But underneath it all, something truly terrifying is stirring. What really set this show apart for me was how it wasn’t just a series of random episodes; it had a huge, planned story that unfolded over years. It really made you think about how different cultures, even those who fundamentally disagree, can come together when faced with a threat that could wipe them all out.

‘Stargate SG-1’ (1997–2007)

A top-secret military team uses a powerful alien device to instantly travel to planets throughout the Milky Way. Led by Colonel Jack O’Neill, they protect Earth from the Goa’uld, a dangerous alien race who pretend to be gods and enslave people. The team journeys to different worlds, learning about new cultures and collecting advanced technology to help them fight against more powerful alien enemies. This popular series built upon the story of the original movie, creating a huge and exciting universe filled with myths and adventures.

‘Farscape’ (1999–2003)

Astronaut John Crichton unexpectedly travels through a wormhole to a far-off corner of the universe in his test vehicle. He finds safety on Moya, a living ship made of biological and mechanical parts, along with a group of alien escapees. While being pursued by the powerful Peacekeepers who want information about the wormhole, Crichton fights to stay alive. The series is famous for its incredibly realistic alien creatures, brought to life using puppets created by the Jim Henson Company.

‘Doctor Who’ (2005–Present)

The Doctor, a time-traveling alien, journeys through the universe in the TARDIS, a ship disguised as a classic British police box. Along with human companions, the Doctor explores strange planets and future societies, battling iconic monsters like the Daleks and Cybermen. This updated version of the original show keeps the excitement of the classic series while also looking at the challenges of living forever. With each new ‘regeneration,’ the Doctor gets a fresh personality and a different approach to their incredible adventures.

‘Red Dwarf’ (1988–Present)

After a radiation leak wipes out the crew of the mining ship Red Dwarf, Dave Lister finds himself as the last human in existence. He’s joined on his journey through space by a hologram of his friend and a creature that evolved from a house cat. The show is a funny take on science fiction, looking at the strange and often ridiculous experience of being completely alone in the universe. It’s become a long-lasting and much-loved comedy classic.

‘The Orville’ (2017–Present)

In the 25th century, Captain Ed Mercer leads a diverse crew of humans and aliens on a journey of exploration. The show blends comedy with heartfelt stories, often exploring important social and ethical questions within a futuristic world. Though it started as a lighthearted comedy, it gradually transformed into a more serious and dramatic space adventure. Fans appreciate its hopeful and adventurous spirit, reminiscent of classic episodic space exploration.

‘For All Mankind’ (2019–Present)

Imagine a world where the Soviet Union, not the United States, first landed on the moon in 1969. This event pushes NASA to work faster and build lunar bases years ahead of schedule. The story follows the decades-long space race and how it changes life and technology back on Earth, all seen through the experiences of the brave astronauts and engineers involved.

‘Lost in Space’ (2018–2021)

After their spaceship is attacked by alien robots, the Robinson family finds themselves stranded on a strange planet. Parents Maureen and John must work to keep their children safe as they try to survive in a dangerous new world. Their youngest son, Will, unexpectedly connects with a mysterious alien robot, which complicates their struggle for survival. This new version of the story emphasizes both family relationships and exciting visual effects.

‘Foundation’ (2021–Present)

Using a science called psychohistory, mathematician Hari Seldon foresees the collapse of the Galactic Empire. To safeguard civilization through the coming chaos, he creates a vast archive of knowledge far from the galactic center. The story unfolds over centuries, following different versions of the Emperor as they attempt to hold onto power amidst a declining empire. This adaptation of Isaac Asimov’s classic explores big ideas about fate and features stunning visuals.

‘Raised by Wolves’ (2020–2022)

After Earth is devastated by religious conflict, two androids, Mother and Father, are sent to raise human children on a new, uninhabited planet. They aim to create a peaceful, non-religious society, but their plans are disrupted by the arrival of a ship carrying members of the devout Mithraic order. The series explores complex themes of faith, what it means to be a parent, and features imaginative science fiction concepts. Visually stunning and with a captivating atmosphere, the drama benefited from the involvement of Ridley Scott, who both produced and directed several episodes.

‘Cowboy Bebop’ (1998–1999)

Spike Spiegel and Jet Black are bounty hunters who travel the solar system in their spaceship, the Bebop, chasing down criminals for money. They’re joined by Faye Valentine, a skilled con artist, and a team that includes a hacker and a corgi created through genetic engineering. The anime is well-known for its cool combination of jazz music and the moody style of film noir, all set in a futuristic world. Each episode reveals pieces of the crew’s sad backstories as they struggle to overcome their personal problems.

‘Futurama’ (1999–2023)

Philip J. Fry, a pizza delivery guy, is frozen and wakes up a thousand years in the future. He gets a job at a delivery company that operates across planets, working with his distant nephew, a robot, and a one-eyed alien. The show is a funny and clever animated series that pokes fun at science fiction and modern life, while also surprisingly touching on heartfelt themes. It’s set in a colorful, imaginative world full of strange aliens and advanced technology.

‘Dark Matter’ (2015–2017)

Six strangers awaken on an abandoned spaceship, completely unsure of their identities or how they ended up there. As they try to fly the ship and avoid danger, they begin to piece together fragments of their troubled pasts. They soon realize they’re carrying something valuable – and dangerous – which makes them a target for powerful companies and the galactic government. The story explores who they truly are and whether they are defined by their past or their choices.

‘Killjoys’ (2015–2019)

I’ve been following the story of Dutch and her crew – John and D’avin – and it’s a wild ride! They’re bounty hunters working this four-planet system called the Quad, and things are seriously heating up with a potential class war brewing. They try to stay out of the politics, just focusing on bringing in criminals for the Reclamation Apprehension Coalition. But they stumbled onto some shocking truths about Dutch’s past, and it turns out there’s a huge danger threatening everyone in the Quad. It’s a really exciting show – tons of action, lots of laughs, and it’s all about how fiercely loyal this team is to each other.

‘Andromeda’ (2000–2005)

Captain Dylan Hunt wakes up after being frozen for 300 years to discover the once-great Systems Commonwealth has collapsed. He takes command of his powerful ship, the Andromeda Ascendant, and sets out to bring order to the fractured galaxies and rebuild civilization. The series draws on ideas originally developed by Gene Roddenberry and features a crew made up of people who used to be enemies. It’s an action-packed adventure with a hopeful message about creating a better future.

‘Space: 1999’ (1975–1977)

When a huge nuclear blast throws the moon out of its orbit and into deep space, the people living on Moonbase Alpha are left stranded. Led by Commander John Koenig, these survivors journey through the universe, encountering bizarre alien planets and incredible cosmic events. The show is famous for its unique look and thought-provoking stories.

‘Blake’s 7’ (1978–1981)

After escaping a harsh, controlling government called the Federation, a team of criminals steals a powerful spaceship. Led by Roj Blake, they begin a fight against the corrupt rulers of Earth and its colonies. Unlike many sci-fi shows of its time, this series is known for its realistic and often bleak portrayal of the future, where characters face difficult choices and success isn’t assured. It explores a future where even the ‘good guys’ aren’t perfect and the lines between right and wrong are blurred.

‘Halo’ (2022–2024)

Humanity’s last hope against a powerful alien alliance called the Covenant rests on the shoulders of Master Chief, a genetically enhanced super-soldier. Their conflict revolves around a strange, ring-shaped world that could wipe out all life. Meanwhile, internal conflicts and hidden truths about the elite Spartan program threaten to undermine the war effort. This series adapts the story from the beloved video game franchise into a live-action TV show.

‘Lexx’ (1997–2002)

A ragtag group of unlikely heroes steals a colossal, living spaceship with the power to obliterate planets. The crew – which includes a timid security guard, a former captive, a resurrected assassin, and a disembodied robotic head – journeys across two universes, leaving chaos in their wake. The show is notorious for its strange and often explicit content, combined with a uniquely unsettling and darkly funny tone.

‘Space: Above and Beyond’ (1995–1996)

When Earth’s outer colonies are attacked by a strange alien race called the Chigs, a group of inexperienced Marine pilots – nicknamed the Wildcards – are immediately sent to fight. Unlike typical space war stories that focus on commanders, this show offers a realistic, boots-on-the-ground perspective of the conflict. It also tackles complex issues like artificial intelligence and prejudice, featuring soldiers created in a lab – known as In Vitroes – as part of the story.

‘Avenue 5’ (2020–2022)

When a luxury space cruise goes wildly off course, a quick vacation turns into a years-long fight for survival. The ship’s captain, Ryan Clark, struggles to keep passengers calm, despite not being very good at his job. As supplies run low, panic sets in among the wealthy travelers as they face the harsh reality of their situation. This comedic satire by Armando Iannucci pokes fun at bad management and how people behave when trapped together.

‘Final Space’ (2018–2021)

Gary Goodspeed, an astronaut in space prison, unexpectedly becomes friends with Mooncake, an alien capable of destroying planets. Along with his crew, Gary tries to shield Mooncake from the villainous Lord Commander, who wants to harness its incredible power. The show is a funny, animated adventure that surprisingly tackles big themes and features complex characters. It grows into an epic story filled with powerful beings and journeys to other dimensions.

2025-11-27 09:17