Summary

• The best science fiction TV shows challenge audiences and encourage viewers to consider the consequences of scientific advancement.
• TV shows about space like Star Trek have influenced real-world scientific endeavors, turning concepts once confined to writers' imaginations into tangible goals for exploration.
• The best sci-fi TV shows inspire innovation and shape public discussion on the possibilities of science and the human experience.

Science fiction TV, particularly narratives centered around space exploration, plays a transformative role in television storytelling, and some of the best of the genre even offer impactful contributions that transcend fiction's boundaries. While there could be more sci-fi stories on TV, science fiction continues to be a platform for speculative thinking, challenging societal norms and encouraging viewers to consider the consequences of scientific advancement. The best TV shows in the sci-fi genre inspire innovation and shape public discussion on the possibilities that lie ahead in the realms of science and the human experience.

Beyond literature and entertainment, science fiction has wielded significant influence on real-world scientific endeavors. Concepts once confined to writers' imaginations, like space travel and artificial intelligence, have evolved into tangible goals for scientific exploration. Visionaries such as Gene Roddenberry, creator of Star Trek, not only crafted compelling narratives but also introduced ideas describing technologies like mobile communication devices. This influence contributes to societal progress by pushing boundaries previously deemed impossible, which is particularly exciting when it comes to sci-fi shows about space.

15 The Silent Sea

Ongoing (2021-present)

The Silent Sea is a 2021 South Korean sci-fi series Netflix adaptation of the 2014 short film, The Sea of Tranquility. The story unfolds on a near-future Earth experiencing severe water scarcity and follows a team sent to a lunar research base to retrieve a mysterious substance. Acclaimed for blending sci-fi with environmental themes, The Silent Sea showcases an intriguing storyline, high production values, and strong performances. The series has tremendous talent going for it along with its unique environmental spin, but as the resident newcomer on the block, it's too soon to tell if its impact will be equal to other titles on this list. The Silent Sea season 1's ending left many questions, but season 2 remains to be confirmed.

14 Avenue 5

Canceled (2020-2022)

Avenue 5, a sci-fi comedy series on HBO created by Armando Iannucci, premiered in January 2020 and starred Hugh Laurie and Josh Gad. The show is set on the interplanetary cruise ship Avenue 5, which faces challenges when gravity loss and an accidental death send it off course. With a three-year journey ahead instead of the planned eight weeks, the crew must navigate the chaos. Known for its caustic humor, the series received mixed but generally favorable reviews. Despite being renewed for a second season, it was canceled in February 2023 after two seasons. While Avenue 5 has a unique comedic spin on the genre, it simply didn't survive long enough to make a lasting impact.

13 Dark Matter

Canceled (2015-2017)

Dark Matter follows a group of people awakening on the starship, Raza, with no memories. Numbered One through Six, they uncover a violent criminal past, presenting them with a choice between redemption and their former selves. Created by Joseph Mallozzi and Paul Mullie, the show emerged from their work on the Stargate franchise. The show was initially well-received when it premiered on Science but Dark Matter was cancelled after season 3 in 2017 after the property was acquired by SyFy. Despite positive viewer engagement, the show sadly struggled to monetize after the acquisition. Still, Dark Matter left a mark with its intriguing premise, compelling characters, and devoted fan base.

12 Lost in Space

Canceled (2018-2021)

The Netflix sci-fi series Lost in Space reimagines the classic 1965 show, chronicling a family of space colonists facing challenges after their ship veers off course. The series explores the Robinson family's resilience on a surprisingly habitable planet post-alien encounter. Developed by Matt Sazama and Burk Sharpless, it combines futuristic elements with personal struggles, contributing to its appeal and the property's enduring legacy. Filmed in locations like Vancouver and Iceland, the show received praise along with several awards for ambitious production values and emotional depth. Despite mixed reviews, Lost in Space stands out for its captivating space adventure and exploration of family dynamics.

11 The Orville

Ongoing (2017-present)

The Orville, a comedic take on space exploration, gained inspiration from genre juggernauts like Star Trek, Star Wars, and Mass Effect. Created by Seth MacFarlane, who also stars as Ed Mercer, the series centers on the crew of the USS Orville in the 25th century. Combining humor, drama, and serialized storytelling, the show found success, becoming Fox's highest-rated Thursday program. MacFarlane's vision, influenced by classic sci-fi, resonated with audiences, leading to critical acclaim in later seasons. The Orville continues to prove its value with its unique comedic spin and ongoing narrative, but while it remains an enjoyable show to watch, it simply hasn't pushed social and technological boundaries like stronger titles on this list.

10 Farscape

Canceled (1999-2003)

Farscape follows astronaut John Crichton, who, along with his companions, navigates space aboard Moya, a living ship. The show's innovative use of animatronic puppets, like Rygel and Pilot, set it apart. Despite awards and a Primetime Emmy nomination, Farscape faced a premature cancelation in 2002, sparking a fervent fan campaign that underscored the show's impact. Influential even in 2019, Amazon Prime released a remaster of the concluding miniseries, Farscape: The Peacekeeper Wars. Farscape's innovative storytelling, diverse characters, and dedicated fan base solidify its legacy in the sci-fi genre, influencing subsequent titles from some of the most famous movie and TV franchises.

9 Futurama

Ongoing (1999-present)

Futurama, Matt Groening's animated sci-fi sitcom, debuted in 1999, presenting the adventures of Philip J. Fry, cryogenically preserved and awakened in the year 2999. Initially conceived by Fox as a follow-up to The Simpsons, Futurama faced hurdles but garnered a devoted fan base. Despite cancelations, it thrived on Adult Swim and Comedy Central. The show's connection with The Simpsons continued to endure, with several crossover episodes across their many seasons. In 2023, Hulu revived Futurama for a new season, reaffirming its enduring legacy and impact. Futurama's biggest strength is its satirical humor that offers intelligent social commentary and sci-fi parody as it explores a futuristic New York.

8 The Expanse

Canceled (2015-2022)

Based on James S. A. Corey's novels, The Expanse unfolds in a future where humanity has colonized the Solar System, following characters like Chrisjen Avasarala, Josephus Miller, and James Holden as they navigate a conspiracy jeopardizing intergalactic peace. Despite Syfy canceling it after three seasons, Amazon revived the series, garnering praise for visuals, character development, and political narratives. Awards include a Hugo for Best Dramatic Presentation. Set against a backdrop of three major powers and Belters, The Expanse delves into political intrigue and societal issues, earning global acclaim and setting a high standard for science fiction TV.

7 Firefly

Canceled (2002)

Firefly is a space Western drama by Joss Whedon that follows the renegade crew of the spaceship Serenity in the year 2517. Despite its short TV run, the show gained a massive fanbase and critical acclaim. Its impact is evident in a Primetime Emmy win and a 2005 film, Serenity, which bookended the series' story. Firefly's fusion of space opera and Western genres, linguistic diversity (including Mandarin Chinese), and its exploration of societal issues garnered attention. The show's distinct vision, evident in the series' genre-bending approach, has left an indelible mark on the sci-fi genre, influencing subsequent shows and maintaining Firefly's relevance years after its initial broadcast.

6 Cowboy Bebop

Canceled (1997-1998)

Cowboy Bebop is a Japanese neo-noir space Western anime that is celebrated for its genre-blending brilliance. Set in 2071, it follows a bounty-hunting crew aboard the spaceship Bebop, exploring themes of existentialism, loneliness, and a haunting past. Created by Shinichirō Watanabe and featuring a stellar team, Cowboy Bebop combines science fiction, Western, and noir elements. The series received universal acclaim for its animation, soundtrack, voice acting, and storytelling. It was a commercial success and won numerous awards, making it a gateway series for Western audiences. Cowboy Bebop continues to influence anime, hailed as one of the best and a genre-defying masterpiece.