Ep 10. Catacombs of the Moon

Space 1999 was a British science fiction television series that aired in the mid-1970s. It was created by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson, known for their earlier series Thunderbirds and other "Supermarionation" shows. Space 1999 is set in the then-futuristic year of 1999 and follows the inhabitants of Moonbase Alpha, a scientific research colony on the Moon. A catastrophic nuclear explosion on the Moon's surface throws it out of Earth's orbit and sends it, along with its inhabitants, careening uncontrollably into the far reaches of space.

Season 2 of Space 1999 marked a shift in tone and style from the first season, with new characters introduced and a greater emphasis on action-oriented plots and faster pacing. Episode 10, titled "Catacombs of the Moon," is a notable entry in the series' second season.

In "Catacombs of the Moon," the Alpha crew grapple with an array of challenges, both physical and emotional, while exploring the expansive and mysterious tunnels beneath the Moon's surface. As always, the episode blends the futuristic and otherworldly elements of sci-fi with the intense character-driven drama that the series is known for.

The episode opens with the Alphans facing a new dilemma as they continue to search for resources vital to their survival on the Moonbase, amid the uncertainty and peril of their uncontrolled journey through space. The need for resources is more pressing than ever, and a promising discovery leads a team to explore the intricate, uncharted catacombs underneath the Moon's surface. These sublunar caverns are believed to be rich in minerals and could potentially be the answer to many of the Moonbase's ongoing supply issues.

As the episode unfolds, the exploration team, led by seasoned Alpha members, begins to navigate the labyrinthine tunnels of the catacombs. They are confronted not only by the physical dangers of this subterranean world, such as unstable structures and potential cave-ins, but also by a psychological terror that seems to emanate from the catacombs themselves. The series often delves into the psychological aspects of space travel and isolation, and this episode is no different, probing the characters' deepest fears and anxieties.

While the team burrows deeper into the catacombs, they encounter strange energy phenomena that raise questions about what the Moon might be hiding in its depths. Tensions escalate as equipment malfunctions and the crew's perception of reality begins to shift. Are they merely victims of their own stress and the oppressive environment, or is there some unseen force at work in the heart of the Moon?

Back on Moonbase Alpha, Commander John Koenig and Dr. Helena Russell face their own set of challenges as they monitor the team's progress and deal with the repercussions of their extended isolation from Earth. As mission control for the expedition, they must weigh the risks and benefits of the exploration, making difficult decisions that could either ensure the colony’s survival or lead to disaster.

In typical Space 1999 fashion, "Catacombs of the Moon" probes deeper philosophical questions alongside its thrilling narrative. It examines themes of obsession, the human spirit's tenacity, and the often-blurry line between science and the supernatural. As the Alphans delve into the unknown, they are forced to confront not only the enigmas of their environment but also the complexities of human nature, leadership, and sacrifice.

Within this framework, character development shines through, with the central figures grappling with personal demons and shared concerns about their place in the universe. The relationships between the characters are tested, with each individual's strengths and weaknesses coming to the fore in an environment that constantly challenges their sense of reality.

The episode's atmosphere is enhanced by the show's hallmark production design, from the retro-futuristic styling of Moonbase Alpha to the eerie and claustrophobic set pieces that embody the catacombs. The special effects and set designs perform the dual function of creating a sense of otherworldliness and grounding the story in the reality of the characters' experiences.

"Catacombs of the Moon" ultimately serves as a microcosm of the broader themes Space 1999 explores throughout its two-season run. With its mix of suspenseful exploration, interpersonal drama, and speculative futurism, the episode is a quintessential piece of the Space 1999 puzzle—a story of survival and exploration amid the profound isolation and wonder of space.