The Testament of Arkadia
Encyclopedia
"The Testament of Arkadia" is the twenty-fourth and final episode of the first series of Space: 1999
. The screenplay was written by Johnny Byrne; the director was David Tomblin
. The final shooting script is dated 5 February 1975, with a revised final shooting script dated 25 February 1975. Live-action filming took place Tuesday 11 February 1975 through Tuesday 25 February 1975.
sits alone in his office, updating the official log. As he writes, the viewer can hear his thoughts courtesy of a voice-over narration. He reflects on how their struggle to survive in a hostile universe had long erased the memory of the cataclysm
that hurled the Moon
out of Earth orbit—but recent events on the planet Arkadia had revived that painful memory, as the Alphans were forced to reconsider their purpose in space. The Commander's solemn words lead into an extended flashback...
Days earlier, an off-duty Koenig is in the gymnasium when an urgent summons to Main Mission interrupts his Kendo
work-out with resident martial-arts enthusiast Luke Ferro. The Moon, after inexplicably changing course, is heading directly for a solar system containing a potentially habitable planet. Long-range scanners are activated—and immediately malfunction; an abrupt five-percent power loss is the cause of the failure. The next minute, all personnel are hurled forward by a colossal lurch. Though the instruments provide no data, it is obvious their forward motion is slowing. Once in range of the planet, the Moon comes to a dead stop...
At an emergency meeting, Victor Bergman
muses that, while gravity or magnetic forces could alter the Moon's speed or trajectory, neither could completely halt its progress. Koenig suspects a third force is responsible, most likely coming from the planet. Reports come in on the mounting power loss—diagnostics of the generators reveal no faults, but the energy output continues to drop. To Koenig′s frustration, Computer identifies the cause as ‘external forces’. If this trend continues, Moonbase Alpha
will suffer a complete power failure in thirty-eight hours; a programme of power-conserving economies may provide an additional ten hours.
With less than forty-eight hours of life-support remaining, their only chance for survival is the planet. Koenig quickly organises a survey mission. The team will consists of himself, Bergman, Helena Russell
, Alan Carter
, two Security guards and two mission specialist
s to be selected by Computer. These individuals will be chosen from the hundreds on Alpha for having the widest range of qualifications and experience. With all long-range systems affected, there will be no communication with Alpha; all necessary equipment must be brought with them.
As the power loss climbs to thirteen percent, Eagle One departs. Computer's additions to the team are aerospace engineer Luke Ferro and research supervisor
Anna Davis. An expert photographer, the Italian extrovert playfully snaps pictures of Anna as he tries to chat her up. The prim English girl tries to ignore him; later, she is embarrassed when she wakes from a nap with her head resting on his shoulder. After a fifteen-hour flight, Eagle One arrives at the planet. A low-altitude reconnaissance reveals no sign of life.
Initial data shows this world was devastated by a nuclear holocaust
in the distant past. Though desolate and inhospitable, the atmosphere is stable and radiation levels tolerable. They touch down and make camp. The Alphans then set off in teams of two across the barren landscape, keenly aware their very survival depends on the answers found. Taking photo-scans of charred, leafless trees, Ferro experiences a growing trepidation—as if they were trespassing on sacred ground. Anna has gathered some petrified leaf remnants; as she consults a botanical text, her excitement grows with each new sample she examines.
Bergman and Helena's assessment of the soil reveals that it can be rejuvenated by introducing the proper bacteria and fungi
. Returning to camp, they come across a narrow cave opening. The interior is oppressively silent but, as it may contain answers to their dilemma, they enter. The two are shocked when their hand-torches
illuminate a grisly tableau—a rough wooden table and benches occupied by a party of skeletons.
As the others assemble in the de facto crypt, Bergman makes another discovery. Text inscribed on the rock wall resembles Sanskrit
, the ancient Indo-European root language. Having reviewed the dossiers of their mission specialists, Helena recalls that polymath
Anna is a trained philologist. On arrival, Anna instantly forgets her botanical discovery as she, too, recognises the text as Sanskrit—but a different, perhaps earlier form. As she begins the herculean task of translating the passage without access to the reference library, Ferro is drawn to a skull at the head of the table. He stares into the empty eye sockets as if mesmerised.
Helena examines the skeletal remains. Forensic analysis
shows these beings were virtually human, dying 25,000 years ago from radiation poisoning
. The team adjourns to the cave to hear Anna's translation. Finding the lyrical prose difficult, the girl haltingly recites the ‘Testament of Arkadia’. Written by a dying man, the text reveals this civilisation, driven by ignorance and greed, annihilated itself in a nuclear exchange. In spite of the destruction, it affirms that Arkadia will live on—in the hearts of an enlightened few who fled before the end, carrying the seeds of a new beginning into the depths of space. The passage ends with a plea for those guided here to make this world live again.
Overwhelmed, the Alphans cannot reconcile the presence of human skeletons and an ancient human language uncountable light-years from Earth. Humans could not have travelled here over 25,000 years ago. Ferro astounds everyone by proclaiming it was the Arkadians who travelled to Earth. He reveals Anna's untold discovery: the petrified remains of forty varieties of tree thought native to Earth. As per the inscription, the Arkadian survivors brought the seeds with them—when they settled Earth and became Mankind.
Shaken by the implications of Ferro's conclusion, they move outside to discuss their situation: Alpha will be powerless in twenty-four hours and the team is no closer to discovering what force is holding the Moon a static prisoner in space. Should they migrate to the planet, it will take two years to reclaim the soil and begin growing crops. The problem is that, even with strict rationing, three hundred Alphan settlers will exhaust the current stock of food in six months′ time. Koenig reckons the planet buys them time...enough to hope for a miracle.
In the cave, Ferro and Anna are packing their gear. They are frightened by the sound of a prolonged, eerie chord. Their attention is drawn to the skeletons—which now appear to them as flesh-and-blood men. A latent intelligence has been activated, which chooses this man and woman to be the agents of its will. During their communion across time, fear gives way to elation and understanding. After the silent dialogue is concluded, the couple again sees the beings as skeletons. Ferro and Anna appear empowered by a new purpose, joyfully embracing when Koenig calls with the news he has decided to abandon Alpha.
As the party breaks camp and departs for home, the power situation on Moonbase becomes desperate. Most activities and services are severely curtailed, if not cancelled. Lighting and heat are radically reduced and all personnel wear cold-weather gear. With the power loss at forty-five percent, Paul Morrow
argues with Bob Mathias
that the extra heating allocated to the Medical Section must be withdrawn. Once in radio range, Koenig calls to order Operation Exodus put into action. As Morrow complies, Sandra Benes
interrupts with unexpected news—the power loss has stabilised at fifty percent.
Koenig suspends the evacuation, pending his return. Ferro and Anna are disturbed by this development and its potential effect on their new agenda. Once on Alpha, Koenig questions their chances of survival with a permanent fifty-percent power loss. When the experts confirm the food-production and essential life-support systems can cope with the situation, Koenig cancels Operation Exodus. After the announcement, Ferro and Anna confront the overstressed Commander. Citing that destiny has carried them here to revitalise this planet, they request permission to settle on Arkadia...just the two of them.
Koenig refuses their ridiculous petition; it would require them taking half the current food supply to survive—condemning Alpha to starvation. When they persist, he harshly dismisses them. However, the fanatical pair have a back-up plan. Anna makes for the Supply Section as Ferro casually approaches David Kano
. Unseen by the Main Mission staff, Ferro jams his gun into Kano's ribs, threatening to kill everyone in the room unless he is given the access code to the protein store. Kano complies, and Ferro transmits the sequence to his waiting accomplice. Anna stuns the sentries and uses the code to gain entry to the food stores.
Kano shoves Ferro off him and sounds the red-alert klaxon. Making his way to an exit, Ferro encounters Helena and takes her hostage. Bargaining with the doctor's life, Ferro demands an Eagle
, a moon buggy
and provisions sufficient for three years. Obsessed with the need to ‘return life to its place of origin’, he rejects all appeals to reason. Koenig recognises the danger of the two fanatics—not to mention the unseen forces guiding them. Everyone is shocked when he gives in to their demands.
When boarding Eagle Four, Ferro refuses to release his hostage. Helena will come with them to prevent any acts of reprisal. Once safely out of range, they will transfer her to the unarmed survey Eagle that will accompany them. Any sign of pursuit and she dies. Koenig again acquiesces, and is scorned by the staff. The two ships, with Carter piloting Reconnaissance Eagle Two, set off for Arkadia. During the flight, Ferro and Anna try to convince Helena that, though profoundly affected by their experience on the planet, they are not mad. Instead, they are acting as willing servants of destiny. The return of life to Arkadia gives purpose to the Moon's odyssey...and if Alpha's role is that of sacrificial lamb
, so be it.
Arriving at Arkadia, the two ships dock and the exchange is made. Ferro then descends to the surface as Carter sets course for the Moon. Once in radio range, Carter reports in that Helena is aboard. With that fact certain, Koenig redeems his reputation. He reveals a homing transmitter has been secreted within Ferro's Eagle and two pursuit ships are ready to lift off and retrieve the supplies.
As Ferro touches down on Arkadia, the Moon unexpectedly lurches into motion. Not coincidentally, the power loss begins to lessen. Koenig cancels the pursuit mission; with full power returning, the lost supplies are irrelevant. He does order Carter to hit the throttle so he and Helena are not left behind. On Arkadia, as Ferro and Anna unload the Eagle, they are shocked to see the Moon in motion, dwindling in size as it accelerates away. Completely alone on a barren world, they hold each other, comforted by the knowledge of having come home.
On Helena's return to Alpha, she and Koenig speculate on the role of the mysterious unknown force of Arkadia and its influence on Ferro and Anna. The viewer returns to the present as Koenig concludes that, with Earth settlers returning life to Arkadia, events have come full circle. While destiny may have been fulfilled with Luke Ferro and Anna Davis becoming a 21st century Adam and Eve
, he writes, the Alphans must keep faith that the Moon's ongoing journey has a greater purpose...
score (drawn from ‘Breakaway
’ and ‘Another Time, Another Place
’), excerpts from Paul Bonneau
and Serge Lancen's composition ‘Suite Appassionata—Andante’ are featured throughout the episode and Jack Arel and Pierre Dutour's 'Picture of Autumn' is used during Ferro and Anna's encounter with the Arkadian intelligence.
, published in 1975.
Space: 1999
Space: 1999 is a British science-fiction television series that ran for two seasons and originally aired from 1975 to 1977. In the opening episode, nuclear waste from Earth stored on the Moon's far side explodes in a catastrophic accident on 13 September 1999, knocking the Moon out of orbit and...
. The screenplay was written by Johnny Byrne; the director was David Tomblin
David Tomblin
David Tomblin was a producer and assistant director born in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, England. He was probably best known as the producer, director, and writer of The Prisoner .-Director:...
. The final shooting script is dated 5 February 1975, with a revised final shooting script dated 25 February 1975. Live-action filming took place Tuesday 11 February 1975 through Tuesday 25 February 1975.
Story
Late into the simulated Alpha ‘night’, John KoenigJohn Koenig
John Koenig is a fictional character from the television series Space: 1999. He was played by Martin Landau. He is American, apparently in his early forties.-Character Biography:...
sits alone in his office, updating the official log. As he writes, the viewer can hear his thoughts courtesy of a voice-over narration. He reflects on how their struggle to survive in a hostile universe had long erased the memory of the cataclysm
Breakaway (Space: 1999)
"Breakaway" is the first episode of the first series of Space: 1999. The screenplay was written by George Bellak ; the director was Lee H. Katzin. Previous titles include 'Zero-G', 'The Void Ahead' and 'Turning Point'. The final shooting script is dated 22 November 1973...
that hurled the Moon
Moon
The Moon is Earth's only known natural satellite,There are a number of near-Earth asteroids including 3753 Cruithne that are co-orbital with Earth: their orbits bring them close to Earth for periods of time but then alter in the long term . These are quasi-satellites and not true moons. For more...
out of Earth orbit—but recent events on the planet Arkadia had revived that painful memory, as the Alphans were forced to reconsider their purpose in space. The Commander's solemn words lead into an extended flashback...
Days earlier, an off-duty Koenig is in the gymnasium when an urgent summons to Main Mission interrupts his Kendo
Kendo
, meaning "Way of The Sword", is a modern Japanese martial art of sword-fighting based on traditional Japanese swordsmanship, or kenjutsu.Kendo is a physically and mentally challenging activity that combines strong martial arts values with sport-like physical elements.-Practitioners:Practitioners...
work-out with resident martial-arts enthusiast Luke Ferro. The Moon, after inexplicably changing course, is heading directly for a solar system containing a potentially habitable planet. Long-range scanners are activated—and immediately malfunction; an abrupt five-percent power loss is the cause of the failure. The next minute, all personnel are hurled forward by a colossal lurch. Though the instruments provide no data, it is obvious their forward motion is slowing. Once in range of the planet, the Moon comes to a dead stop...
At an emergency meeting, Victor Bergman
Victor Bergman
Professor Victor Bergman is the name of a recurring character on the UK science fiction television series Space: 1999. The role was portrayed by actor Barry Morse.-Character Biography:...
muses that, while gravity or magnetic forces could alter the Moon's speed or trajectory, neither could completely halt its progress. Koenig suspects a third force is responsible, most likely coming from the planet. Reports come in on the mounting power loss—diagnostics of the generators reveal no faults, but the energy output continues to drop. To Koenig′s frustration, Computer identifies the cause as ‘external forces’. If this trend continues, Moonbase Alpha
Moonbase Alpha
Moonbase Alpha is a fictional moon base and the main setting in the science fiction television series Space: 1999.-Moonbase Alpha:Located in the Moon crater Plato and constructed out of quarried rock and ores, Moonbase Alpha is four kilometres in diameter and extends up to one kilometre in areas...
will suffer a complete power failure in thirty-eight hours; a programme of power-conserving economies may provide an additional ten hours.
With less than forty-eight hours of life-support remaining, their only chance for survival is the planet. Koenig quickly organises a survey mission. The team will consists of himself, Bergman, Helena Russell
Helena Russell
Helena Russell is a fictional character from the television series Space: 1999. She was played by Barbara Bain. She is American and apparently in her mid-thirties....
, Alan Carter
Alan Carter (Space 1999)
Alan Carter is a fictional character from the television series Space: 1999. He was played by Nick Tate. He is of Australian origin and is in his early thirties.-Character biography:...
, two Security guards and two mission specialist
Mission Specialist
A Mission Specialist is a position held by certain NASA astronauts during Space Shuttle missions. A Mission Specialist is assigned to a limited field of the mission, such as for medical experiments or technical quests....
s to be selected by Computer. These individuals will be chosen from the hundreds on Alpha for having the widest range of qualifications and experience. With all long-range systems affected, there will be no communication with Alpha; all necessary equipment must be brought with them.
As the power loss climbs to thirteen percent, Eagle One departs. Computer's additions to the team are aerospace engineer Luke Ferro and research supervisor
Research supervisor
A research supervisor is responsible for the general oversight of an academic research project.Research Associates liaise with their research supervisor on a regular basis to advise him or her on the research status and receive any guidelines.Research supervisor for post-doctoral research usually...
Anna Davis. An expert photographer, the Italian extrovert playfully snaps pictures of Anna as he tries to chat her up. The prim English girl tries to ignore him; later, she is embarrassed when she wakes from a nap with her head resting on his shoulder. After a fifteen-hour flight, Eagle One arrives at the planet. A low-altitude reconnaissance reveals no sign of life.
Initial data shows this world was devastated by a nuclear holocaust
Nuclear holocaust
Nuclear holocaust refers to the possibility of the near complete annihilation of human civilization by nuclear warfare. Under such a scenario, all or most of the Earth is made uninhabitable by nuclear weapons in future world wars....
in the distant past. Though desolate and inhospitable, the atmosphere is stable and radiation levels tolerable. They touch down and make camp. The Alphans then set off in teams of two across the barren landscape, keenly aware their very survival depends on the answers found. Taking photo-scans of charred, leafless trees, Ferro experiences a growing trepidation—as if they were trespassing on sacred ground. Anna has gathered some petrified leaf remnants; as she consults a botanical text, her excitement grows with each new sample she examines.
Bergman and Helena's assessment of the soil reveals that it can be rejuvenated by introducing the proper bacteria and fungi
Soil life
Soil life or soil biota is a collective term for all the organisms living within the soil.-Overview:In balanced soil, plants grow in an active and steady environment. The mineral content of the soil and its heartiful structure are important for their well-being, but it is the life in the earth that...
. Returning to camp, they come across a narrow cave opening. The interior is oppressively silent but, as it may contain answers to their dilemma, they enter. The two are shocked when their hand-torches
Flashlight
A flashlight is a hand-held electric-powered light source. Usually the light source is a small incandescent lightbulb or light-emitting diode...
illuminate a grisly tableau—a rough wooden table and benches occupied by a party of skeletons.
As the others assemble in the de facto crypt, Bergman makes another discovery. Text inscribed on the rock wall resembles Sanskrit
Sanskrit
Sanskrit , is a historical Indo-Aryan language and the primary liturgical language of Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism.Buddhism: besides Pali, see Buddhist Hybrid Sanskrit Today, it is listed as one of the 22 scheduled languages of India and is an official language of the state of Uttarakhand...
, the ancient Indo-European root language. Having reviewed the dossiers of their mission specialists, Helena recalls that polymath
Polymath
A polymath is a person whose expertise spans a significant number of different subject areas. In less formal terms, a polymath may simply be someone who is very knowledgeable...
Anna is a trained philologist. On arrival, Anna instantly forgets her botanical discovery as she, too, recognises the text as Sanskrit—but a different, perhaps earlier form. As she begins the herculean task of translating the passage without access to the reference library, Ferro is drawn to a skull at the head of the table. He stares into the empty eye sockets as if mesmerised.
Helena examines the skeletal remains. Forensic analysis
Forensic pathology
Forensic pathology is a branch of pathology concerned with determining the cause of death by examination of a corpse. The autopsy is performed by the pathologist at the request of a coroner or medical examiner usually during the investigation of criminal law cases and civil law cases in some...
shows these beings were virtually human, dying 25,000 years ago from radiation poisoning
Radiation poisoning
Acute radiation syndrome also known as radiation poisoning, radiation sickness or radiation toxicity, is a constellation of health effects which occur within several months of exposure to high amounts of ionizing radiation...
. The team adjourns to the cave to hear Anna's translation. Finding the lyrical prose difficult, the girl haltingly recites the ‘Testament of Arkadia’. Written by a dying man, the text reveals this civilisation, driven by ignorance and greed, annihilated itself in a nuclear exchange. In spite of the destruction, it affirms that Arkadia will live on—in the hearts of an enlightened few who fled before the end, carrying the seeds of a new beginning into the depths of space. The passage ends with a plea for those guided here to make this world live again.
Overwhelmed, the Alphans cannot reconcile the presence of human skeletons and an ancient human language uncountable light-years from Earth. Humans could not have travelled here over 25,000 years ago. Ferro astounds everyone by proclaiming it was the Arkadians who travelled to Earth. He reveals Anna's untold discovery: the petrified remains of forty varieties of tree thought native to Earth. As per the inscription, the Arkadian survivors brought the seeds with them—when they settled Earth and became Mankind.
Shaken by the implications of Ferro's conclusion, they move outside to discuss their situation: Alpha will be powerless in twenty-four hours and the team is no closer to discovering what force is holding the Moon a static prisoner in space. Should they migrate to the planet, it will take two years to reclaim the soil and begin growing crops. The problem is that, even with strict rationing, three hundred Alphan settlers will exhaust the current stock of food in six months′ time. Koenig reckons the planet buys them time...enough to hope for a miracle.
In the cave, Ferro and Anna are packing their gear. They are frightened by the sound of a prolonged, eerie chord. Their attention is drawn to the skeletons—which now appear to them as flesh-and-blood men. A latent intelligence has been activated, which chooses this man and woman to be the agents of its will. During their communion across time, fear gives way to elation and understanding. After the silent dialogue is concluded, the couple again sees the beings as skeletons. Ferro and Anna appear empowered by a new purpose, joyfully embracing when Koenig calls with the news he has decided to abandon Alpha.
As the party breaks camp and departs for home, the power situation on Moonbase becomes desperate. Most activities and services are severely curtailed, if not cancelled. Lighting and heat are radically reduced and all personnel wear cold-weather gear. With the power loss at forty-five percent, Paul Morrow
Paul Morrow
Paul Morrow is a fictional character who first appeared in 'Breakaway', the premiere episode of the science fiction television show Space: 1999, and was portrayed by Prentis Hancock. He is a British national who appears to be in his early thirties....
argues with Bob Mathias
Bob Mathias (Space: 1999)
Bob Mathias is a fictional character from the British science-fiction television series Space: 1999. He is played by actor Anton Phillips.-Character Biography:...
that the extra heating allocated to the Medical Section must be withdrawn. Once in radio range, Koenig calls to order Operation Exodus put into action. As Morrow complies, Sandra Benes
Sandra Benes
Sandra Benes is a recurring character in the British science-fiction television series Space: 1999. She is of Western European/Burmese origin and is in her late twenties. Her role was played by actress Zienia Merton.-Character Biography:...
interrupts with unexpected news—the power loss has stabilised at fifty percent.
Koenig suspends the evacuation, pending his return. Ferro and Anna are disturbed by this development and its potential effect on their new agenda. Once on Alpha, Koenig questions their chances of survival with a permanent fifty-percent power loss. When the experts confirm the food-production and essential life-support systems can cope with the situation, Koenig cancels Operation Exodus. After the announcement, Ferro and Anna confront the overstressed Commander. Citing that destiny has carried them here to revitalise this planet, they request permission to settle on Arkadia...just the two of them.
Koenig refuses their ridiculous petition; it would require them taking half the current food supply to survive—condemning Alpha to starvation. When they persist, he harshly dismisses them. However, the fanatical pair have a back-up plan. Anna makes for the Supply Section as Ferro casually approaches David Kano
David Kano (Space 1999)
David Kano is a fictional character who regularly appeared during the first season of the science fiction television series Space: 1999. He is of Jamaican origin and in his mid-thirties. He was played by actor Clifton Jones.-Character biography:...
. Unseen by the Main Mission staff, Ferro jams his gun into Kano's ribs, threatening to kill everyone in the room unless he is given the access code to the protein store. Kano complies, and Ferro transmits the sequence to his waiting accomplice. Anna stuns the sentries and uses the code to gain entry to the food stores.
Kano shoves Ferro off him and sounds the red-alert klaxon. Making his way to an exit, Ferro encounters Helena and takes her hostage. Bargaining with the doctor's life, Ferro demands an Eagle
Eagle (Space: 1999)
The Eagle Transporter is a fictional spacecraft and the iconic image of the 1970s television series Space: 1999. The Eagles serve as the primary spacecraft of Moonbase Alpha, which has a fleet of them. The Eagles are primarily used to explore alien planets, defend Moonbase Alpha from attack, and to...
, a moon buggy
Space 1999 moon buggy
The Moon Buggy is a fictional vehicle in Gerry and Sylvia Anderson's TV series Space: 1999. It is Moonbase Alpha's all purpose land vehicle...
and provisions sufficient for three years. Obsessed with the need to ‘return life to its place of origin’, he rejects all appeals to reason. Koenig recognises the danger of the two fanatics—not to mention the unseen forces guiding them. Everyone is shocked when he gives in to their demands.
When boarding Eagle Four, Ferro refuses to release his hostage. Helena will come with them to prevent any acts of reprisal. Once safely out of range, they will transfer her to the unarmed survey Eagle that will accompany them. Any sign of pursuit and she dies. Koenig again acquiesces, and is scorned by the staff. The two ships, with Carter piloting Reconnaissance Eagle Two, set off for Arkadia. During the flight, Ferro and Anna try to convince Helena that, though profoundly affected by their experience on the planet, they are not mad. Instead, they are acting as willing servants of destiny. The return of life to Arkadia gives purpose to the Moon's odyssey...and if Alpha's role is that of sacrificial lamb
Sacrificial lamb
A sacrificial lamb is a metaphorical reference to a person or animal sacrificed for the common good. The term is derived from the traditions of Abrahamic religion where a lamb is a highly valued possession, but is offered to God as a sacrifice for the forgiveness of Sin.-In politics:In politics, a...
, so be it.
Arriving at Arkadia, the two ships dock and the exchange is made. Ferro then descends to the surface as Carter sets course for the Moon. Once in radio range, Carter reports in that Helena is aboard. With that fact certain, Koenig redeems his reputation. He reveals a homing transmitter has been secreted within Ferro's Eagle and two pursuit ships are ready to lift off and retrieve the supplies.
As Ferro touches down on Arkadia, the Moon unexpectedly lurches into motion. Not coincidentally, the power loss begins to lessen. Koenig cancels the pursuit mission; with full power returning, the lost supplies are irrelevant. He does order Carter to hit the throttle so he and Helena are not left behind. On Arkadia, as Ferro and Anna unload the Eagle, they are shocked to see the Moon in motion, dwindling in size as it accelerates away. Completely alone on a barren world, they hold each other, comforted by the knowledge of having come home.
On Helena's return to Alpha, she and Koenig speculate on the role of the mysterious unknown force of Arkadia and its influence on Ferro and Anna. The viewer returns to the present as Koenig concludes that, with Earth settlers returning life to Arkadia, events have come full circle. While destiny may have been fulfilled with Luke Ferro and Anna Davis becoming a 21st century Adam and Eve
Adam and Eve
Adam and Eve were, according to the Genesis creation narratives, the first human couple to inhabit Earth, created by YHWH, the God of the ancient Hebrews...
, he writes, the Alphans must keep faith that the Moon's ongoing journey has a greater purpose...
Starring
- Martin LandauMartin LandauMartin Landau is an American film and television actor. Landau began his career in the 1950s. His early films include a supporting role in Alfred Hitchcock's North by Northwest . He played continuing roles in the television series Mission: Impossible and Space:1999...
— Commander John KoenigJohn KoenigJohn Koenig is a fictional character from the television series Space: 1999. He was played by Martin Landau. He is American, apparently in his early forties.-Character Biography:... - Barbara BainBarbara BainMillicent Fogel , known professionally as Barbara Bain, is an American actress.-Early life:Bain was born in Chicago. She graduated from the University of Illinois with a bachelor's degree in sociology. She moved to New York City, where she was a dancer and high fashion model. Bain studied with...
— Doctor Helena RussellHelena RussellHelena Russell is a fictional character from the television series Space: 1999. She was played by Barbara Bain. She is American and apparently in her mid-thirties....
Featuring
- Prentis HancockPrentis HancockPrentis Hancock is a British actor, best known for his television roles.He was a regular cast member of the first season of science fiction series Space: 1999 as Paul Morrow, and also appeared in a number of Doctor Who stories throughout the 1970s - Spearhead from Space and Planet of the Daleks...
— Controller Paul MorrowPaul MorrowPaul Morrow is a fictional character who first appeared in 'Breakaway', the premiere episode of the science fiction television show Space: 1999, and was portrayed by Prentis Hancock. He is a British national who appears to be in his early thirties.... - Clifton JonesClifton JonesClifton Jones is an actor, mostly known for his roles on British television.His most prominent role is probably that of David Kano during the first season of the science fiction series Space: 1999....
— David KanoDavid Kano (Space 1999)David Kano is a fictional character who regularly appeared during the first season of the science fiction television series Space: 1999. He is of Jamaican origin and in his mid-thirties. He was played by actor Clifton Jones.-Character biography:... - Zienia MertonZienia MertonZienia Merton is a British actress born in Burma. Her mother was Burmese, and her father half English, half French. She was raised in Singapore, Borneo, Portugal, and England....
— Sandra BenesSandra BenesSandra Benes is a recurring character in the British science-fiction television series Space: 1999. She is of Western European/Burmese origin and is in her late twenties. Her role was played by actress Zienia Merton.-Character Biography:... - Anton PhillipsAnton PhillipsAnton Phillips is an actor who found success appearing in British television. He remains best known for his role as Dr. Bob Mathias in the science fiction series Space 1999.-Early life and education:...
— Doctor Bob MathiasBob Mathias (Space: 1999)Bob Mathias is a fictional character from the British science-fiction television series Space: 1999. He is played by actor Anton Phillips.-Character Biography:... - Nick TateNick TateNicholas John "Nick" Tate is an Australian actor best known for his role as Eagle pilot Alan Carter in both seasons of the 1970s science fiction television series Space: 1999, as well as for playing the role of Gordon Hamilton's errant brother James in the 1980's soap opera "Sons and...
— Captain Alan CarterAlan Carter (Space 1999)Alan Carter is a fictional character from the television series Space: 1999. He was played by Nick Tate. He is of Australian origin and is in his early thirties.-Character biography:...
Uncredited Artists
- Suzanne RoquetteSuzanne RoquetteSuzanne Roquette is an actress, who remains best known for her role as Tanya Alexander in the science fiction television series Space 1999....
— TanyaTanya AlexanderTanya Alexander is the name of a semi-recurring character on the UK science fiction television series Space: 1999. The role was portrayed by German actress Suzanne Roquette.-Character Biography:... - Tony Allyn — Security Guard One (Irwin)
- Quentin Pierre — Security Guard Two (N'Dole)
Music
In addition to the regular Barry GrayBarry Gray
Barry Gray was a British musician and composer who is best known for his work for Gerry Anderson.-Life:...
score (drawn from ‘Breakaway
Breakaway (Space: 1999)
"Breakaway" is the first episode of the first series of Space: 1999. The screenplay was written by George Bellak ; the director was Lee H. Katzin. Previous titles include 'Zero-G', 'The Void Ahead' and 'Turning Point'. The final shooting script is dated 22 November 1973...
’ and ‘Another Time, Another Place
Another Time, Another Place (Space: 1999)
"Another Time, Another Place" is the sixth episode of the first series of Space: 1999. The screenplay was written by Johnny Byrne; the director was David Tomblin. The final shooting script is dated 20 January 1974, with blue-page amendments dated 25 January and 1 April 1974. Live-action filming...
’), excerpts from Paul Bonneau
Paul Bonneau
Paul Bonneau was a French composer of classical music.-Career:...
and Serge Lancen's composition ‘Suite Appassionata—Andante’ are featured throughout the episode and Jack Arel and Pierre Dutour's 'Picture of Autumn' is used during Ferro and Anna's encounter with the Arkadian intelligence.
Production Notes
- Script editor Johnny Byrne and director David TomblinDavid TomblinDavid Tomblin was a producer and assistant director born in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, England. He was probably best known as the producer, director, and writer of The Prisoner .-Director:...
worked closely together to craft this final episode—mostly, Byrne recalls, as there was little money left in the series′ budget. The idea of the ‘ancient astronaut’ was popularised by German author Erich von DänikenErich von DänikenErich Anton Paul von Däniken is a Swiss author best known for his controversial claims about extraterrestrial influences on early human culture, in books such as Chariots of the Gods?, published in 1968...
in his book Chariots of the Gods? published in 1968. Melding this premise with the spirituality of the Adam and EveAdam and EveAdam and Eve were, according to the Genesis creation narratives, the first human couple to inhabit Earth, created by YHWH, the God of the ancient Hebrews...
story of Creation excited Tomblin, but Byrne felt it was a little to 'on the nose' with the imposed religious context. Though enjoying the story, he felt it was let down by the time limitations of the one-hour episode format and the necessary under-budgeting. Fan response was positive, as the episode is seen to bring the (unintended) story arcStory arcA story arc is an extended or continuing storyline in episodic storytelling media such as television, comic books, comic strips, boardgames, video games, and in some cases, films. On a television program, for example, the story would unfold over many episodes. In television, the use of the story...
of the Moon's predestined journey through space to a conclusion.
- Orso Maria Guerrini was the last of four Italian artists employed by the series as per an agreement with RAIRAIRAI — Radiotelevisione italiana S.p.A. known until 1954 as Radio Audizioni Italiane, is the Italian state owned public service broadcaster controlled by the Ministry of Economic Development. Rai is the biggest television company in Italy...
, the Italian production company and series financial partner. Guerrini's English proved difficult to understand and his dialogue was dubbed by renowned voice artist Robert RiettyRobert RiettiRobert Rietti , usually credited as Robert Rietty, is a Italian actor and director.- Biography :Born of Italian heritage, Lucio Rietti was “discovered” at the age of 8 by his father Vittorio who noticed the boy had completely memorized a copy of a script he had given Lucio having wanted help from...
. Tony Allyn and Quentin Pierre had played unnamed Security guards throughout the series. The script for this episode listed their surnames as ‘Irwin’ and ‘N'Dole’, though these were never spoken aloud. Koenig's voice-over narration throughout the story was a last-minute addition, used to clarify several abstract plot points.
- Producer Sylvia AndersonSylvia AndersonSylvia Anderson , born 25 March 1937, is a British voice artist and film producer, most notable for collaborations with Gerry Anderson, to whom she was married from 1962 to 1975....
felt that 'we were really just getting into our stride in this episode—episode twenty-four. It was probably a little slower than some of the other episodes, but quite profound. I think Johnny Byrne was taking a very interesting concept, and more to the point...we learned about the characters.' However, her personal and professional partnership with husband Gerry AndersonGerry AndersonGerry Anderson MBE is a British publisher, producer, director and writer, famous for his futuristic television programmes, particularly those involving specially modified marionettes, a process called "Supermarionation"....
came to an end soon after the conclusion of filming. Before the wrap party, he made known his intentions of asking for a legal separationLegal separationLegal separation is a legal process by which a married couple may formalize a de facto separation while remaining legally married. A legal separation is granted in the form of a court order, which can be in the form of a legally binding consent decree...
. Afterwards, she resigned as both the programme's producer and a partner in the Group Three production company.
- It was decided hiring an American head writer would end the time-consuming necessity of ITC New York vetting the scripts (plus bring a more American outlook to the programme). Experienced writer/producer Fred FreibergerFred FreibergerFred Freiberger was an American film and television screenwriter and television producer, with a career spanning four decades including The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms, Star Trek, and Space: 1999...
would be selected for this position, mainly due to his position as show runnerShow runnerShowrunner is a term of art originating in the United States and Canadian television industry referring to the person who is responsible for the day-to-day operation of a television seriesalthough such persons generally are credited as an executive producer...
for the final season of Star TrekStar TrekStar Trek is an American science fiction entertainment franchise created by Gene Roddenberry. The core of Star Trek is its six television series: The Original Series, The Animated Series, The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, Voyager, and Enterprise...
. With the producer's chair now vacated by Sylvia Anderson, he would assume the dual position of head writer and producer.
- Though the programme was an international success, Sir Lew GradeLew GradeLew Grade, Baron Grade , born Lev Winogradsky, was an influential Russian-born English impresario and media mogul.-Early years:...
was disappointed by (1) its failure to achieve an American network sale; (2) a decline in the initially high American ratings; (3) the lukewarm reception in Britain, due to the lack of a coordinated network showing on ITVITVITV is the major commercial public service TV network in the United Kingdom. Launched in 1955 under the auspices of the Independent Television Authority to provide competition to the BBC, it is also the oldest commercial network in the UK...
and its having been labelled an 'American import'. In the autumn of 1975, as work progressed on the second series, ITC EntertainmentITC EntertainmentThe Incorporated Television Company was a British television company largely involved in production and distribution. It was founded by Lew Grade.-History:...
announced to the production team that, unless the format was drastically retooled (specifically favouring American viewers), Space: 1999 would be cancelled.
Novelisation
The episode was adapted in the sixth Year One Space: 1999 novel Astral Quest by John RankineJohn Rankine
John Rankine is a British science fiction author, who has written books as John Rankine and Douglas R. Mason...
, published in 1975.
External links
- Space: 1999 - ‘The Testament of Arkadia’ - The Catacombs episode guide
- Space: 1999 - ‘The Testament of Arkadia’ - Moonbase Alpha's Space: 1999 page
| Last produced: "Dragon's Domain Dragon's Domain "Dragon's Domain" is the twenty-third episode of the first series of Space: 1999. The screenplay was written by Christopher Penfold; the director was Charles Crichton. The final shooting script dated 21 January 1975, with blue-page amendments dated 29 January 1975 and yellow-page amendments dated... " |
List of Space: 1999 episodes | Next produced: "The Metamorph The Metamorph "The Metamorph" is the first episode of the second series of Space: 1999 . The screenplay was written by Johnny Byrne; the director was Charles Crichton. Previous titles were 'The Biological Soul' and 'The Biological Computer'. The final shooting script is dated 19 January 1976... " |
| Last transmitted: "The Troubled Spirit The Troubled Spirit "The Troubled Spirit" is the nineteenth episode of the first series of Space: 1999. The screenplay was written by Johnny Byrne; the director was Ray Austin. The final shooting script is dated 11 November 1974... " |
Next transmitted: "The Last Enemy" |