Discover the Best Sci-Fi TV Shows: From The Expanse to Battlestar Galactica

With the exponential growth of technology and imagination, the world of science fiction has never been more captivating. From deep space odysseys to dystopian futures, the realm of sci-fi television shows continues to expand, presenting audiences with thrilling and thought-provoking narratives. In this article, we delve into the best sci-fi TV shows that have elevated the genre to new heights. Whether you're a fan of mind-bending mysteries or epic interstellar adventures, this list is sure to have something that will transport you to otherworldly realms.

The Expanse

Synopsis: The Expanse is set in a future where humanity has successfully colonized the solar system, leading to divisions among humans on Earth, Mars, and The Belt (an asteroid belt). However, the discovery of mysterious alien technology and the uncovering of a political conspiracy spanning the solar system thrust an idealist named James Holden into the role of humanity's potential savior, as he tries to protect them from an alien threat and their own destructive tendencies.Reasons to Watch: What sets The Expanse apart is its intricate world-building and the complex political maneuverings that underpin its compelling sci-fi elements, such as space battles and the manipulation of gravity. The interplanetary conflict at the heart of the show's narrative provides a wealth of captivating storylines and unexpected revelations.Number of Seasons: 5

Watch on Amazon Prime Video

Silo (2023 - )

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Silo — Official Trailer | Apple TV

Watch on Acclaimed actress Rebecca Ferguson (known for her roles in Dune and Mission: Impossible) stars in Silo, a captivating sci-fi mystery that delves into a society that warns of danger beyond its confines while concealing crucial information from its inhabitants. The talented ensemble cast includes Tim Robbins, Common, David Oyelowo, and Rashida Jones, among others. Silo is among the most highly anticipated new shows of 2023, particularly for fans of the sci-fi genre.

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The Newest Sci-Fi Shows

Starring Aneurin Barnard, Emily Beecham, and Andreas Pietschmann

Netflix

The Peripheral

Synopsis: The Peripheral follows a skilled virtual reality gamer named Chloë Grace Moretz, who becomes unexpectedly connected to another universe while wearing a VR headset. Produced by Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy (the creators of HBO's Westworld), this series evokes a similar aesthetic and narrative style, constantly blurring the line between reality and fiction. Number of Seasons: 1

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Love, Death Robots

Synopsis: Love, Death Robots is a collection of animated sci-fi shorts that explore a wide range of topics and narratives. From sentient robots to man-eating sea crabs, each short (which runs less than 20 minutes) features a unique animation style and offers an original story. This anthology series is perfect for those with shorter attention spans who appreciate the diversity and creativity of the sci-fi genre. Number of Seasons: 3

Starring Anson Mount and Ethan Peck

Marni Grossman/Paramount

For All Mankind

Synopsis: For All Mankind presents an alternate history where the space race between America and Russia extends beyond the Moon. With a focus on realistic portrayal, this drama imagines a world where Russia lands on the Moon first, prompting America to continue pushing the boundaries of space exploration. The first two seasons delve into lunar politics and the establishment of a moonbase, while the third season takes astronauts to Mars and introduces a private space tourism company. Number of Seasons: 3

Starring Ewan McGregor

Disney

More Great Sci-Fi Shows

Apple TV

1899

Synopsis: 1899 follows the passengers of a ship traveling from Europe to New York City in the year 1899, who encounter a series of mysterious and supernatural events. This suspenseful and enigmatic series is created by the same team behind the critically acclaimed German time-traveling series Dark. With its multicultural cast and a focus on twists and turns, 1899 is designed to captivate audiences for multiple seasons. Number of Seasons: 1

2022 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM

Andor

Synopsis: Andor serves as a prequel to Rogue One, chronicles the events five years prior to the film, and centers around Cassian Andor, a smuggler who becomes intertwined with the fledgling Rebel Alliance and their fight against the Empire. With its unique focus on espionage and political intrigue within the Star Wars universe, Andor stands out as a top-notch addition to the franchise. Number of Seasons: 1

Starring Gary Carr and Chloë Grace Moretz

Amazon Studios

Undone

Synopsis: Undone follows the journey of a woman named Alma, who possesses unique powers that allow her to manipulate space and time. With the guidance of her deceased father, Alma sets out to solve his own murder. This animated series, created by the producers of BoJack Horseman, combines emotional depth, humor, and mind-bending storytelling to create an unforgettable viewing experience. Number of Seasons: 2

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

Synopsis: Star Trek: Strange New Worlds is a prequel to the Original Series and follows Captain Pike as he commands the USS Enterprise. This series aims to capture the essence of the classic Star Trek formula, with self-contained episodes filled with exploration and adventure. Starring Anson Mount as Captain Pike and Ethan Peck as Spock, Strange New Worlds pays tribute to the beloved franchise while adding its own unique flavor. Number of Seasons: 1

Starring Angelique Cabral and Rosa Salazar

Amazon Studios

Severance

Synopsis: Severance takes place in a company where employees are required to compartmentalize their lives and separate their work personas from their personal selves. This mind-bending and comedic series explores the concept of work-life balance taken to extreme levels, as workers willingly sever their consciousness to maintain a strict division between their professional and personal identities. Starring Adam Scott, Patricia Arquette, John Turturro, and Christopher Walken, Severance offers a captivating blend of humor and mystery. Number of Seasons: 1

Starring Alan Tudyk

James Dittinger/Syfy

Halo

Synopsis: Halo follows a cybernetic super-soldier known as Master Chief, who begins to question his purpose as a weapon for good. The series explores a futuristic world where ancient alien technology, known as the Halo, holds the key to humanity's survival. As Master Chief uncovers a complex web of conspiracies involving a human military and hostile alien forces, he embarks on a mission to protect both himself and the human race. Number of Seasons: 1

Apple TV

The X-Files

Synopsis: The X-Files follows a pair of FBI agents, Fox Mulder and Dana Scully, as they investigate paranormal and unexplained phenomena, ranging from UFOs and ghosts to cannibals. The show defies easy categorization, combining elements of sci-fi, horror, and procedural drama. Mulder, who is a believer in the supernatural, and Scully, a skeptic, work together to uncover the truth behind these mysterious cases. With its thought-provoking exploration of faith, science, and the unknown, The X-Files has become a beloved classic. -Kelly ConnollyNumber of Seasons: 11Bonus: 9 Shows Like The X-Files That You Should Watch Next

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Starring J.K. Simmons

Starz

The 100

Synopsis: The 100 is set nearly 100 years after a nuclear war devastates Earth, leaving only the inhabitants of a space station called The Ark as survivors. When overpopulation becomes a crisis, The Ark sends 100 teenage delinquents to the surface to determine if Earth is habitable. However, the delinquents soon discover that the dangers they face on Earth go far beyond their expectations. The show explores the struggle for survival and the sacrifices individuals are willing to make in order to maintain their humanity. Number of Seasons: 7

Starring Nathan Fillion, Alan Tudyk, Gina Torres, and Adam Baldwin

Altered Carbon

Synopsis: Altered Carbon is set in a distant future where human consciousness can be digitized and transferred between bodies, effectively rendering individuals immortal. When one of the wealthiest individuals in the universe is murdered, his consciousness survives and hires Takeshi Kovacs, a centuries-old mercenary, to solve the crime. In the second season, Kovacs, now in a new body, embarks on a journey to find his lost love while unraveling a series of new murders. This futuristic series combines mind-bending technology with a complex mystery that will keep viewers enthralled. Number of Seasons: 2

The CW

Doctor Who

About the Show: Doctor Who follows the adventures of the Doctor, a humanoid alien from the extinct Time Lords race. Traveling through space and time in the form of a phone booth-shaped spaceship called the Tardis, the Doctor saves the world with the help of human companions. The show combines quick wit and timey-wimey adventures to protect the universe from destruction. Notably, Jodie Whittaker joined the series as the first female Doctor in Season 11.Number of Seasons: 13

Joel Kinnaman, Altered Carbon

Netflix

12 Monkeys

About the Show: 12 Monkeys is set in a post-apocalyptic world where a deadly virus has wiped out 7 billion people. In order to prevent the release of the virus, a scavenger named James Cole is sent back in time. However, his mission is complicated by time loops and a forbidden romance. The show requires attention to keep up with the changing timelines and loops, but it offers a captivating mythology and world-building. It also features strong female characters, which is a rarity in the sci-fi genre. The show spans 4 seasons.Number of Seasons: 4

Mandip Gill, Jodie Whittaker, John Bishop, Doctor Who

James Pardon/BBC Studios/BBC America

Stargate Universe

About the Show: Stargate Universe follows a group of scientists, military personnel, and civilians who find themselves stranded on an ancient ship in a different galaxy. As they navigate the unknown universe, tensions rise and they search for a way back home. Stargate Universe offers a mix of stranded strangers, space exploration, time travel, political infighting, and terrifying aliens. Despite being canceled after Season 2, the show delivers great performances and top-notch storytelling. It leaves viewers wanting more.Number of Seasons: 2

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Counterpart

About the Show: Counterpart centers around a government desk jockey named Howard Silk, who discovers that the world has split into two parallel universes on the brink of war. The show features dual roles for its cast, as each universe has a counterpart in the other. J.K. Simmons leads the way, playing two versions of Howard with incredible skill. Fans of espionage and science-fiction will be captivated by the intricately plotted and twisty story. The show spans 2 seasons.Number of Seasons: 2

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Anthony Mackie, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Black Mirror

Netflix

The Orville

About the Show: The Orville is an homage to the classic Star Trek series. Created by Seth MacFarlane, the show combines elements of interstellar stoner comedy, sci-fi swashbuckler, workplace drama, and The Twilight Zone. The crew of a space ship explores the galaxy to bring alien cultures into the Planetary Union. The show's first season had some bumps but improved in the second season, particularly with the midseason two-parter "Identity." While the first two seasons aired on Fox, Season 3 is a Hulu exclusive.Number of Seasons: 3

David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson, The X-Files

Fox

Timeless

About the Show: Timeless follows a team of three time travelers who are sent throughout history to save the future from a mysterious organization seeking to alter history. The show skillfully uses time travel without getting lost in paradoxes or plot holes. It offers a captivating mix of thrilling adventure and educational value, as the team encounters overlooked historical figures. The show's strength lies in its well-developed characters and their relationships. With 2 seasons, Timeless is a crowd-pleaser for both sci-fi enthusiasts and those new to the genre.Number of Seasons: 2

Tatiana Maslany, Orphan Black

BBC America

Devs

About the Show: Devs centers around a woman investigating the disappearance of her boyfriend, who was working on a top-secret project at a powerful tech company. The show explores themes of existence, the role of technology in society, and the consequences of tampering with fate. While it can be cerebral at times, Devs offers a beautifully filmed single-season series with profound insights into the potential dangers of advanced computing. It spans 1 season.Number of Seasons: 1

Abigail Spencer, Malcolm Barrett, Matt Lanter; Timeless

Darren Michaels/Sony/NBC

The Mandalorian

About the Show: The Mandalorian is set in the post-Return of the Jedi Star Wars universe and follows a bounty hunter on thrilling adventures. The show combines elements of action, adventure, and the adorable presence of Baby Yoda. It delivers a concentrated dose of '80s nostalgia and offers pure entertainment with its captivating storytelling and impressive visuals. With 2 seasons, The Mandalorian has become one of the best Star Wars products ever released.Number of Seasons: 2

Nick Offerman and Sonoya Mizuno, Devs

Raymond Liu/FX

WandaVision

About the Show: WandaVision is the first television show from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). It serves as a soft launch for Phase 4 of the MCU and connects to the upcoming movie Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. The show follows the characters Scarlet Witch and Vision, who find themselves trapped inside classic TV comedies. It blends comedy, mystery, and superhero elements to create a unique viewing experience. With one season, WandaVision offers a fresh take on the superhero genre.Number of Seasons: 1

Disney

Loki

About the Show: Loki explores the story of the God of Mischief during the events of Avengers: Endgame. The alternate version of Loki, who stole the Tesseract, must fix the timeline he disrupted. The show combines elements of crime thriller and time travel as Loki works for the Time Variance Authority (TVA) to restore order. With Tom Hiddleston reprising his role as Loki and Owen Wilson joining the cast, the show promises exciting performances. It spans 1 season.Number of Seasons: 1

Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany, WandaVision

Disney

Oats Studios Vol. 1

About the Show: Oats Studios Vol. 1 is a collection of short science-fiction films directed by Neill Blomkamp, known for films like District 9. Each short film showcases Oats Studios' technological advancements and Blomkamp's ability to tell compelling stories across genres. Ranging from comedy to doomsday scenarios, the collection offers a tight narrative experience similar to the anthology series Black Mirror.Number of Seasons: 1

Apple TV

Resident Alien

About the Show: Resident Alien follows the story of an alien who assumes human form and poses as a town doctor. His plan, however, is to kill all humans. The show combines mystery and comedy, blending elements of small-town mysteries and procedural comedy. Based on a graphic novel series, Resident Alien offers a unique and entertaining narrative. It spans 2 seasons.Number of Seasons: 2

Netflix

Black Mirror

About the Show: Black Mirror is an anthology series that explores the dark side of technology and its impact on society. Each episode tells a standalone story, often set in a dystopian or near-future world. The show delves into the dangers of technological advancements and the depravities people may engage in. While some episodes are thought-provoking and disturbing, others offer upliftment and heartwarming moments. With 5 seasons, Black Mirror provides a diverse range of sci-fi storytelling.Number of Seasons: 5

Brian J Smith, Elyse Levesque, David Blue, Alaina Huffman and Jamil Walker Smith, Stargate Universe

Syfy, NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

Stranger Things

Stranger Things takes audiences on a thrilling adventure that harkens back to the classic science fiction of the '80s. Set in the town of Hawkins, Indiana, the show combines elements of science fiction and horror. It revolves around a group of kids who encounter mysterious events and creatures from the Upside Down dimension. With its smart storytelling and talented young cast, Stranger Things goes beyond nostalgia to deliver pop entertainment at its finest.

Lost

Available for streaming on: Hulu, Freevee (US); Disney (UK)

Let's address one thing upfront: No, the creators of Lost, Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse, did not have a master plan for the show's direction from the beginning (and they were uncertain about other elements as well, according to Mo Ryan's reporting). However, does that really matter? Lost remains one of the most remarkable and impactful sci-fi experiences on television.

From its ambitious and costly pilot, directed by J.J. Abrams, to its controversial conclusion (which I'll gladly explain, even without being asked), Lost captivated audiences like few other shows of its time. It found a home in the burgeoning era of internet speculation and theories, engaging viewers with its captivating story of plane crash survivors trapped on a mysterious island. As the seasons progressed, Lost fully embraced its fantastical elements, serving as a gateway for network TV audiences into the world of science fiction. – AB

Russian Doll

Very few TV series can truly be called "perfect," but Netflix's Russian Doll is undoubtedly one of them. Initially mistaken for a light take on Groundhog Day, Russian Doll surprised everyone with its uniquely weird, irreverent, and occasionally unsettling time loop plot. It quickly became both a word-of-mouth sensation and a critical favorite.

The show revolves around game developer Nadia, played brilliantly by Natasha Lyonne, who finds herself trapped in an endless cycle of therapy sessions on her 36th birthday. Nadia's struggle takes on a deeper significance as she confronts her own complacency and searches for a way to escape the loop, forcing her to reconcile with her past before she can move forward. And that's just the first season! – KH

Firefly

What it's about: A group of space cowboys. Need I say more?Why it's worth watching: No list would be complete without the cult classic Firefly. Though it only lasted 14 episodes before being canceled in 2002, it remains a thrilling binge-watch filled with shoot-outs and smuggling that will leave you wanting more. For closure, you'll have to watch the wrap-up movie, Serenity, currently streaming on Starz.How many seasons: 1

Watch for free with ads on Tubi

Netflix

Fringe

Fringe became the natural successor to The X-Files when it premiered in 2008, offering a slicker and more refined take on the sci-fi genre. The key to its success? The exceptional cast led by Anna Torv, Joshua Jackson, and John Noble, who delivered performances that elevated the show to a whole new level.

The premise of Fringe centers around Agent Olivia Dunham, a by-the-book FBI agent who finds herself working alongside the eccentric and brilliant Dr. Walter Bishop and his witty son Peter. Together, they tackle a series of bizarre and often mind-bending cases as part of the Fringe Division, a Joint Federal Task Force. Fringe truly hit its stride in its second season and beyond, delving deep into a complex mythology involving parallel universes and alternate timelines. For fans, it remains a compulsively watchable cult classic. – KH

Foundation

Foundation is a triumph for sci-fi enthusiasts of all ages. Not only does it bring Isaac Asimov's classic novels to life, but it does so with great skill and artistry. Set in the vast Galactic Empire, ruled by three cloned emperors (one of whom is portrayed by Lee Pace), the series follows "psychohistorian" Hari Seldon (Jared Harris) as he predicts the imminent collapse of the Empire and establishes a Foundation to rebuild civilization.

Despite being on the less popular Apple TV, Foundation stands as one of the most significant shows to ever grace television screens. Its breathtaking visuals and expansive world-building bring Asimov's imagination to vivid reality. Once thought to be unfilmable, the Foundation novellas-turned-novels have found their perfect adaptation, thanks to a production that spared no expense. – AB

Station Eleven (2021 - 2022)

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"Station Eleven" is a slow-burning sci-fi story about the end of the world that ultimately morphs into a tale of hope. Loosely based on Emily St. John Mandel's novel of the same name, this series offers one of the most richly developed sets of characters seen in recent years. With standout performances from Himesh Patel and the formidable Mackenzie Davis (known for her work in "The Martian," "Black Mirror," and "Blade Runner 2049"), "Station Eleven" is a must-watch.

Watch it here: Stream it on Max

Davis (2023)

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"Mrs. Davis" is a timely limited series co-created by Damon Lindelof, the brilliant mind behind hit shows like "Lost," "The Leftovers," and "Watchmen." While "Mrs. Davis" is decidedly lighter and less serious than Lindelof’s previous works, it remains a delightful and worthwhile watch. Set in an alternate reality, the series follows a nun (Betty Gilpin) and her cowboy ex-boyfriend (Jake McDorman) as they combat an evil artificial intelligence. It's a unique story that offers a different take on the familiar themes seen in "Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One."

Stream it here: Watch on Peacock

Dollhouse (2009-2010)

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Unfortunately, "Dollhouse" only lasted two seasons from 2009 to 2010, as it faced challenges like poor marketing and inconsistent scheduling. However, the show's quality deserved better treatment.

Set in a world where advanced technology allows people's memories and personalities to be wiped and replaced, "Dollhouse" follows the story of a secretive organization that utilizes "dolls" for various purposes, both legal and illicit. This gripping sci-fi series tackles themes of identity, morality, and the nature of free will, with a cast that delivers outstanding performances.

Stream it here: Watch on Amazon

The Twilight Zone (2019- 2020)

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"The Twilight Zone" has long been an iconic series, with its haunting theme song etched into the collective memory since the 1960s. While every version of the show is worth watching, we specifically recommend both the original hosted by Rod Serling and the 2019 reboot hosted by the talented Jordan Peele. These iterations feature famous guest stars, mesmerizing twists, and offer an ideal opportunity to challenge your perception before bed.

Stream the original here: Watch on Amazon

Stream the 2019 reboot here: Watch on Amazon

Dark

What it's about: Set in the small German town of Winden, "Dark" explores the mysterious events triggered by a wormhole beneath the local power plant. Disappearing children, time travel, and family secrets intertwine in this thrilling mystery that spans three generations.Why you should watch: "Dark" was Netflix's first German-language original, offering the choice to watch it with subtitles or an English dub. While it may take a moment to get into the show, once you're hooked, you're in for an unforgettable journey. With its intricate webs of time travel and family secrets, combined with an odd sense of humor, "Dark" is a captivating mystery that will keep you watching into the late hours.How many seasons: 3

Nadine Nicole, The Expanse

Amazon Prime Video

Battlestar Galactica

Available for streaming on: purchase-only on Apple TV and Amazon (US); BBC iPlayer, Sky (UK)

Battlestar Galactica stands as not only the best sci-fi TV show of the 21st century but also a reinvention of the genre itself. While paying homage to the likes of Star Trek, Stargate, and Babylon 5, this 2004-2008 series on Sci-Fi (now Syfy) introduced science fiction to a broader audience and became a cultural phenomenon.

When the show first debuted as a miniseries, few expected it to resonate with viewers. After all, it was a remake of a 1978 series that had not achieved classic status. The original Battlestar Galactica set out to emulate the success of Star Wars but ended up being remembered as a cheesy space opera. However, the dark and timely remake became an instant favorite among critics and fans alike. Set in a post-9/11 world, Battlestar Galactica focused on the remnants of humanity as they fled their Cylon-created destruction and embarked on a search for a new home aboard the Battlestar Galactica. Despite some narrative twists and turns, the show's four seasons, miniseries, spinoff, and TV movies remain a thrilling example of science fiction at its finest. – AB

Honorable Mentions: Torchwood, Colony, Dollhouse, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Lost in Space (2018), Dark Angel, Snowpiercer, Counterpart, Dark Matter, Killjoys, Avenue 5, Raised By Wolves

From time-traveling adventures to mind-bending landscapes of the future, the world of sci-fi TV shows never fails to capture our imaginations. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the genre, this list of the best sci-fi shows has something for everyone. Strap in for intergalactic battles, explore alternate realities, and question the very nature of existence as you immerse yourself in the captivating worlds of "The Expanse," "Black Mirror," "Stranger Things," and many more. Prepare to be taken on a thrilling ride through the limitless possibilities of the sci-fi realm and discover new universes that will leave you yearning for more. So grab your popcorn, buckle up, and get ready for an exhilarating adventure that will transport you to uncharted territories and challenge your perception of reality.