Top 10 Sci-Fi Shows Set on an Alien Planet

Sci-fi shows set on alien planets ignite curiosity about the unknown, blending wild landscapes with stories of survival and discovery. These extraterrestrial settings push characters to confront new cultures, technologies, or threats, creating narratives that are as thrilling as they are imaginative.

I’ve explored the vast universe of sci-fi to bring you the top 10 shows set on alien planets, each offering a fresh take on life beyond Earth. From epic sagas to intimate dramas, these series will take you on a wild journey through the stars.

10. ‘Defiance’ (2013-2015)

Earth, now a ravaged alien planet after a war with extraterrestrial settlers, hosts a frontier town where humans and aliens coexist. A drifter-turned-lawkeeper navigates tensions and a looming threat.

Grant Bowler leads a diverse cast in this gritty series. The show’s unique blend of Western vibes and alien cultures makes its transformed Earth feel vividly otherworldly.

9. ‘Farscape’ (1999-2003)

Astronaut John Crichton is stranded on a living ship in a distant galaxy, surrounded by alien fugitives. They roam strange planets, dodging a ruthless empire bent on capturing them.

Ben Browder’s charm and Claudia Black’s intensity anchor this cult classic. Its wild creatures and vibrant worlds, paired with quirky humor, make every episode a cosmic ride.

8. ‘The 100’ (2014-2020)

Juvenile delinquents are sent from a space station to a post-apocalyptic Earth, now an alien-like planet with mutated creatures and warring tribes. Their fight for survival reveals dark secrets.

Eliza Taylor and Bob Morley shine in this tense drama. The show’s lush, dangerous landscapes and moral dilemmas create a gripping sci-fi saga.

7. ‘His Dark Materials’ (2019-2022)

Lyra Belacqua explores parallel worlds, including alien planets with strange beings like armored bears and soul-eating spectres. Her quest to uncover a cosmic mystery spans exotic realms.

Dafne Keen’s bold performance drives this adaptation of Philip Pullman’s novels. The show’s richly imagined worlds and mystical stakes make it a visual feast.

6. ‘Raised by Wolves’ (2020-2022)

Two androids raise human children on a barren alien planet, Kepler-22b, after Earth’s destruction. As the colony grows, religious tensions and mysterious forces threaten their mission.

Amanda Collin and Abubakar Salim deliver haunting performances. Ridley Scott’s eerie vision and the planet’s stark beauty create a chilling, thought-provoking tale.

5. ‘Legend of the Seeker’ (2008-2010)

Richard Cypher, a woodsman, becomes a hero on a magical planet filled with tyrannical rulers and mystical creatures. He battles to save his world from dark forces.

Craig Horner leads this fantasy-sci-fi hybrid with heart. The show’s lush alien landscapes and epic quests offer a thrilling escape, despite its loose sci-fi roots.

4. ‘Firefly’ (2002)

The crew of the Serenity spaceship roams a network of colonized alien planets in a frontier galaxy, taking odd jobs to survive. Their misadventures blend heists, politics, and found-family bonds.

Nathan Fillion’s roguish charm anchors Joss Whedon’s beloved series. The diverse planets, from dusty outposts to high-tech cities, give every episode a fresh sci-fi flavor.

3. ‘The Expanse’ (2015-2022)

In a future where humans colonize alien planets, a detective, a ship captain, and a diplomat uncover a conspiracy threatening the solar system. Planets like Ilus harbor dangerous alien tech.

Steven Strait and Dominique Tipper lead a stellar cast in this sprawling epic. The show’s grounded science and vivid planetary settings make it a sci-fi standout.

2. ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ (2017-Present)

The USS Discovery explores alien worlds across time and galaxies, from fungal planets to icy Klingon strongholds. The crew faces cosmic threats while grappling with personal loyalties.

Sonequa Martin-Green’s powerful performance drives this modern Trek. Its stunning visuals and bold storytelling bring alien planets to life with unmatched scale.

1. ‘Doctor Who’ (1963-Present)

The Doctor, a Time Lord, travels through time and space, often landing on alien planets like Skaro or Gallifrey. Each adventure pits them against bizarre creatures and galactic dangers.

Jodie Whittaker and David Tennant are among the iconic Doctors in this legendary series. The show’s endless variety of planets and witty charm make it a sci-fi cornerstone.

Which alien planet show warped you to another world, or did I miss a cosmic classic? Share your picks in the comments!