Set in the years 2063–2064, the show focuses on the "Wildcards", members of the United States Marine Corps Space Aviator Cavalry, 58th Squadron. They are stationed on the space carrier USS Saratoga, and act as infantry and pilots of SA-43 Endo/Exo-Atmospheric Attack Jet fighters.
Where to Watch Space: Above and Beyond
Space: Above and Beyond Ratings & Reviews
- flavo43November 23, 2025Space: Above and Beyond started off like many ’90s military sci-fi shows—ambitious but wildly unrealistic, much like early JAG or SeaQuest. But as the season progressed, the show began to find its footing, and by the midpoint it delivered some genuinely compelling, grounded storytelling. The premise itself was strong, and what I particularly appreciated was that the threats weren’t limited to just one alien enemy. Humanity also faced dangers of its own making: artificial intelligences born from arrogance, and colonization driven by greed despite knowing alien life was out there. The sci-fi world-building was exceptional, with space combat, technology, and political tensions portrayed with surprising nuance. Some characters started off as stock archetypes—clearly a result of early lazy writing—but later episodes pushed them into deeper, more emotionally resonant territory, exposing them to the true horrors and moral complexity of war. If the series had been allowed to continue, it could have become a major hit. Sadly, ’90s sci-fi TV faced hurdles that great ideas couldn’t always overcome.
- Hipster ZOMBIEFebruary 19, 2025“In Space no one can hear you scream unless it’s the battle cry of the United States Marine Corp!” Space: Above and Beyond was a sci-fi military drama that aired for one season from 1995 to 1996. Created by Glen Morgan and James Wong, who were known for their work on The X-Files, the show combined elements of war, politics, and space exploration, offering a gritty and realistic take on the genre. Set in the year 2063, Space: Above and Beyond follows a group of Marine Corps pilots, the 58th Squadron (nicknamed the “Wild Cards”), as they battle an alien species known as the Chigs. The war is sparked when humanity’s first interstellar colony is attacked, leading to an all-out conflict for survival. The series delves into themes of duty, sacrifice, and the psychological toll of war, often drawing parallels to real-world military conflicts. Though it might be a little cheesy by today’s standards, Space delivered likable characters and some intense dog fightings scenes. It’s a shame Fox pulled the plug on the show after never really giving it the push it deserved.
