How do you make the Moon look real when a television series keeps changing what it is? This making-of documentary explores the craftsmanship, compromises, and behind-the-scenes diplomacy that brought Space: 1999 and Moonbase Alpha to life.
From Brian Johnson’s miniature effects unit at Bray Studios—and his decision to keep directors away from the models—to Keith Wilson’s modular sets, Rudy Gurnrick’s uniforms, Martin Bower’s fast-built spacecraft, and the practical photography that turned two Eagle models into a fleet, the production relied on ingenuity. The series grew out of an abandoned UFO continuation and survived script rewrites, schedule pressure, energy shortages, international financing, and an uncertain American network deal.
The story also follows the audience testing that shaped the second season, the arrival of Maya, the changes to the cast and music, and the paper trail behind the decision not to make a third season. Along the way, we examine the show’s unusual station-by-station American distribution, Isaac Asimov’s response, the legacy of the Eagle, and Brian Johnson’s connection with George Lucas and Gary Kurtz.
A behind-the-scenes look at the model work, production design, practical effects, and creative problem-solving that made Space: 1999’s future feel real.
WE&P by: EZorrillaMc&Co.
