Space Above And Beyond Battle Of The Belt
Space Above and Beyond Battle of the Belt is a science fiction television series that aired on Fox from September 1995 to June 1996. The show revolves around the lives of a group of United States Marine Corps Space Aviators who are part of the 58th Squadron on board the USS Saratoga.
The show is set in a future where humanity has managed to colonize different planets and has established contact with intelligent extraterrestrial life. But, as in most science fiction stories, things are not so simple. There is a looming threat from an alien race known as the Chigs, who are engaged in an intergalactic war with humanity. The USS Saratoga, along with other Earth forces, has been sent to fight the Chigs.
The Plot
The series follows the lives of a group of rookie pilots - Nathan West, Cooper Hawkes, Shane Vansen, Paul Wang, and Vanessa Damphousse. They are fresh out of flight school and are eager to prove themselves in battle. They are assigned to the 58th Squadron under the command of Lt. Colonel T.C. McQueen, who is himself a member of an alien race known as the In Vitroes. In Vitroes are artificially created humans designed to be soldiers.
As the show progresses, we learn about the characters' backstories and their personal struggles. Each of them has their own reasons for joining the Marines and fighting against the Chigs. The show also explores the intricate politics and rivalries that exist between different factions within the Earth forces.
The Battles
As the title suggests, Space Above and Beyond Battle of the Belt is filled with intense space battles. The show's visual effects were groundbreaking for its time, and it still holds up today. The battles are not just mindless action sequences; they are well-thought-out and are a testament to the creativity of the show's writers and producers.
One of the show's most memorable episodes, "The River of Stars," features the 58th Squadron being sent on a dangerous mission behind enemy lines. The mission is a success, but at a great cost to the squadron. The episode is a prime example of the show's ability to balance action with emotional resonance.
The Legacy
Space Above and Beyond Battle of the Belt was canceled after just one season due to low ratings. However, the show has developed a cult following over the years. Its themes of sacrifice, heroism, and the horrors of war resonate with audiences to this day.
The show's legacy can be seen in modern science fiction shows like Battlestar Galactica and The Expanse. Space Above and Beyond Battle of the Belt paved the way for these shows and helped to establish the genre as a mainstream form of entertainment.
Conclusion
Space Above and Beyond Battle of the Belt is a classic science fiction show that deserves more recognition than it received during its initial run. The show's themes and characters are still relevant today, and its influence on the genre cannot be overstated. If you are a fan of science fiction, Space Above and Beyond Battle of the Belt is definitely worth checking out.