'GALACTICA 1980' AT 40: 'CONQUEST OF THE EARTH'!

Though my ten-year old self was disappointed that my favourite heroes in Apollo and Starbuck were not coming back to the new series of Battlestar Galactica airing on US TV in 1980, the idea of the Rag Tag fleet finally finding Earth, in Galactica 1980, still caught my interest. The Starlog magazine coverage for the new series at first seemed relatively encouraging, too. And when it was announced that a selection of episodes were being released as a theatrical compilation in Europe, as had been done with BG's Saga of a Star World and The Living Legend/ Fire in Space, my hopes and anticipation were higher spirited, especially as no indication had been given that the new series had actually been bought yet for UK screenings.

Then followed the above great art/photo composite poster, which, for the most part, actually ended up being better and more exciting to witness than the total onscreen edited mess, UK 1981 released, that was ultimately to be Conquest of the Earth!

The poster also made a terrific cover to the rare Japanese laserdisc release! With thanks to John Johnson.

CLASSIC IMAGE: A MAN FOR ALL PEOPLES!

He'll be forever celebrated for his role as 'Father of the Fleet' in Commander Adama, but fans of Canadian star Lorne Greene's impressive career before Galactica will be thrilled with this news sent in by audio producer Daniel Earnshaw of two rare plays featuring the much-loved actor that are now available, and will surely prove of great interest.

Full details here:

http://www.colonialfleets.com/forums/showthread.php?t=18784

Audio clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvLk6j9NC0s&feature=youtu.be

CLASSIC IMAGE: APOLLO BLASTS OUT!

Confident and ready to do his duty as a top Viper pilot, Captain Apollo prepares to launch his ship into space, in this great image from Saga of a Star World.

Audio producer Daniel Earnshaw has kindly let me know about his work linked to the much-missed Richard Hatch's two-disc memoirs audio book.

Available on double CD and iTunes from Explore Multimedia, check out the details:

http://www.colonialfleets.com/forums/showthread.php?t=18327

Preview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUxMJtYVXCw&feature=emb_logo

FACETS OF SHEBA!

Her father's driven daughter indeed when it comes to fighting tin-plated Cylons. Nonetheless, through the course of the Galactica series, the lovely Sheba (as played by Anne Lockhart) would also show the caring and vulnerable sides to her nature alongside her new Colonial comrades. Regular contributor Wiilie T provides a fine image collation showcasing the character. in all her facets.

CLASSIC IMAGE: INTO THE NIGHT...

Truly the space version of a formidable modern day air carrier, the might Battlestar Galactica is seen here in another great angle showing the craft's detail and militaristic beauty whilst heading out into space, continuing its epic search for the Thirteenth Tribe.

CLASSIC IMAGE: THE MOMENT OF TRUTH!

He may soon be hip deep in battle with the Cylons, but Starbuck's viper piloting skills will surely prove as adept as ever, in this great shot from Saga of a Star World rarely seen beyond its TOPPS card appearance of 1978. The shot looks like it was taken in the Galactica's landing bay.

CLASSIC ART: LEADERS AND WARRIORS!

The original Galactica series couldn't have had better, or more inspiring heroes, for seventies audiences (and beyond) to enjoy than Commander Adama, Apollo and Starbuck, as presented in this great fan art. If anyone knows the name of the artist, please get in touch.