Ep 1. Awakening (1)

Buck Rogers season 1 episode 1, titled "Awakening (1)" is the opening episode of the 1979 American science fiction television series Buck Rogers in the 25th Century. The show follows the adventure of Buck Rogers, a 20th-century astronaut who is frozen in space for 500 years before being revived in the 25th century.

The episode introduces us to Captain William "Buck" Rogers, who serves as a pilot in the United States Air Force in 1987. While on a mission to fly a spaceship with a new type of propulsion system, Rogers' ship is caught in a freak accident that causes him to drift in space for 500 years. During this period of suspended animation, Buck's body has been perfectly preserved, and he is discovered by a group of space travelers.

The group, calling themselves the Draconians, were on a mission to strike a deal with Earth to obtain some vital resources that their planet requires. The leader of the group, Princess Ardala, is intrigued by Buck's appearance and orders that he be brought onboard their ship along with his spacecraft.

Once revived, Buck finds that the world and society that he once knew have changed dramatically. Earth has become a highly technological society that has expanded throughout the solar system. The society is planning to launch a deep space probe to the planet Saturn, which is Buck's first introduction to the future.

The episode follows Buck as he adapts to this new world and its customs and culture. He is introduced to the Earth Defense Directorate, which is responsible for governing and protecting the Earth and its colonies. Once Buck has explained his situation and his mission, the leaders of the Defense Directorate see a unique opportunity to make use of his unique experience in their mission to Saturn.

As Buck prepares to join the mission, the Draconian leader, Princess Ardala, persists in trying to seduce Buck. She believes that he will be useful in overthrowing the Defense Directorate and ruling over Earth. Buck is uncomfortable with her advances, and it quickly becomes clear that he has no interest in joining her cause.

As the episode progresses, Buck starts to feel more at home in this new world. He meets Dr. Huer, the head of the Defense Directorate, who admits that they have been unable to create the deep space probes to the level of perfection they require. Buck's experience and expertise in propulsion systems have made him indispensable to the mission.

Before the mission can be launched, Buck must pass a series of physical and mental tests to ensure that he is ready for the journey. He must also prove his loyalty to the Defense Directorate and convince Princess Ardala that he has no plans to join her side.

As the episode comes to an end, Buck successfully passes his tests, and the mission to Saturn is finally launched. Buck Rogers in the 25th Century takes the viewer on a journey through space and time, exploring the various concepts of the future, including interplanetary travel, alien encounters, and advanced technology.

Overall, "Awakening (1)" serves as a thrilling and entertaining introduction to the world of Buck Rogers, setting the stage for future adventures and introducing viewers to a fascinating 25th-century universe.