Space Patrol 52-10-25 004 The Hole in Empty Space

Summary

Podcast Summary: Space Patrol 52-10-25 004 The Hole in Empty Space

Podcast Information

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Episode: Space Patrol 52-10-25 004 The Hole in Empty Space
• Release Date: January 17, 2025

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Introduction

"Space Patrol" transports listeners to the thrilling adventures of interplanetary heroes during the Golden Age of Radio. In the episode titled "The Hole in Empty Space," Commander Buzz Corey and his dedicated team confront an enigmatic and destructive force threatening the solar system. This summary delves into the episode's intricate plot, character dynamics, scientific intrigue, and dramatic resolution.

Plot Summary

The episode kicks off with Cadet Happy piloting a space observatory while Lieutenant Grayson, a Space Patrol officer, investigates a mysterious phenomenon—an invisible force capable of obliterating matter without a trace. As the observatory approaches this enigmatic force, dubbed the Cycloplex by Professor Jelka, the team scrambles to avert disaster.

At [01:46], Commander Buzz Corey detects the invisible menace, urging Cadet Happy to pull away:
Commander Buzz Corey: "Happy, Happy, can you hear me? Pull away from it." [01:46]

Despite Happy's efforts, the observatory spirals uncontrollably towards the Cycloplex. [02:00] The tension escalates as the observatory is ensnared in the Cycloplex's gravitational whirlpool, threatening imminent destruction.

As the narrative unfolds, Commander Corey broadcasts an "Extra, Extra" announcement promoting the Space Patrol Spaceophone, engaging young listeners and seamlessly integrating advertisements into the storyline.

Lieutenant Grayson arrives to report his unsettling discovery: a meteor that vanished into a hole in space, leaving no fragments behind. His baffling account prompts concerns about his mental state, leading to a discussion about the validity of his findings.

Character Highlights

• Commander Buzz Corey: The seasoned leader striving to maintain control and ensure the safety of his team. His authoritative demeanor is evident when he addresses the crisis:

  "It shouldn't be necessary to resort to the brainograph to obtain a routine report from a Space Patrol officer." [04:39]

• Lieutenant Grayson: The diligent officer uncovering the Cycloplex phenomenon. His determination to report the truth, despite potential repercussions, underscores his integrity:

  "What do you mean?"
  "I want a brainograph test so I can be sure of myself. Sure that my mind isn't playing tricks on me."
  [07:17]

• Professor Jelka: The astronomer and mathematician who introduces the theoretical concept of the Cycloplex, bridging scientific intrigue with the unfolding drama:

  "I call it a cycloplex."
  [10:22]

• Cadet Happy: The observatory pilot whose actions are central to the unfolding crisis. His interactions provide both tension and human element to the story:

  "I'm trying, sir, but the rockets don't seem to have any effect."
  [01:49]

Scientific Concepts Introduced

The central scientific mystery revolves around the Cycloplex, described as a hole in space that interacts with electromagnetism, pulling objects into other dimensions. Professor Jelka references his theoretical work, adding depth to the narrative:

"Well, you might call it a hole in space." [13:02]

The episode delves into theoretical physics concepts like multiple dimensions and electromagnetism, presenting them in an accessible manner through the characters' dialogues.

Climax and Resolution

As the Cycloplex accelerates towards Mars, the team devises a daring plan to counteract its destructive force. They consider utilizing Huddleston's ring—a superconducting magnetic device operating at near absolute zero—to generate a powerful magnetic field capable of opposing the Cycloplex.

At [21:04], the plan is set into motion:

Commander Buzz Corey: "Suppose that Huddleston turns the power on full, charging that ring and the magnets around it and keeps the power on. Would it destroy the Cycloplex?"

The attempt culminates in a high-stakes magnetic battle. Despite initial setbacks, including the lab ship being torn apart by the Cycloplex's magnetic force, the team's perseverance pays off. As the ring begins to counteract the Cycloplex, the mysterious force begins to shrink:

"The cycloplex isgone. Commander, it worked."
[25:27]

The Cycloplex dissipates, saving Mars from annihilation. Commander Corey commends the team's collective effort:

Commander Buzz Corey: "It took all of us. Enter the story in our logbook. Capping."
[26:00]

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a triumphant note, celebrating the team's victory over the Cycloplex and foreshadowing future adventures. An engaging advertisement for the Space Patrol Spaceophone and a preview of the next episode tease ongoing excitement:

"Don't wait. Send me your Spaceophone set today."
[26:57]

Next Week's Preview:
"Next week's thrilling Space Patrol adventure: Buzz and Happy have been captured by two criminals aboard a relay space station near Pluto orbit, leading to the suspense-filled story, The Glow Worm Project."
[27:04]

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Commander Buzz Corey on Pulling Away from Cycloplex:
  "Happy, Happy, can you hear me? Pull away from it."
  [01:46]

• Lieutenant Grayson on the Cycloplex's Nature:
  "I want a straightforward answer."
  [07:17]

• Professor Jelka Introducing Cycloplex:
  "I call it a cycloplex."
  [10:22]

• Commander Corey on the Team's Effort:
  "It took all of us. Enter the story in our logbook. Capping."
  [26:00]

• Ad Integration - Spaceophone Promotion:
  "That's what these fellows think about the checkerboard super cereals. The only three official cereals of the Space Patrol."
  [16:09]

Final Thoughts

"The Hole in Empty Space" masterfully blends suspense, scientific exploration, and character-driven storytelling, embodying the essence of Golden Age radio dramas. Commander Corey and his team's confrontation with the Cycloplex offers listeners a captivating narrative filled with heroism, ingenuity, and the ever-present battle against the unknown. This episode not only entertains but also stimulates curiosity about the mysteries of space, making it a standout installment in the Space Patrol series.

Transcript

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[Dick Tufeld]

Wheat checks, rice checks and good hot Roston Presents Space Patrol I Adventure in the wild vast reaches of space. Missions of daring in the name of interplanetary justice, travel into the future with Buzz Corey, Commander in Chief of the Space Patrol. In today's transcribed Adventure, Cadet Happy is piloting a space observatory while a scientist studies a strange phenomenon. It's an invisible force that completely destroys all matter. Right now, Buzz Corey is in terror. The fifth warning Happy to veer away from the force, but too late. Out of control. The space observatory whirls toward the invisible menace.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Happy, Happy, can you hear me? Pull away from it.

[Cadet Happy]

I'm trying to, sir, but the rockets don't seem to have any effect.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Use full power on your starboard rocket.

[Cadet Happy]

I am S but we're caught in some sort of a whirlpool.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Half hit, full repeller ray. If you're caught in there, you're finished.

[Dick Tufeld]

We'll be back in just a moment with today's Space Patrol story. The Hole in Empty Space.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Extra. Extra. Read all about it.

[Cadet Happy]

Buzz Cory offers an official Space Patrol Spaceophone set to every boy and girl on Earth.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Extra. Extra.

[Dick Tufeld]

Ya hear that gang? That's right, Buzz Cory will send you a real honest to goodness Space Patrol Spaceophone set. Sounds just like a walkie talkie. Looks just like the spaceophone Buzz Cory himself uses. Imagine you can talk on it to someone a straight 50ft away. Let me show you with this Spaceophone right here. Calling Bob Raitt. Can you hear me, Bob?

[Cadet Happy]

I'll say loud and clear.

[Dick Tufeld]

Just like talking on the walkie talkie. In the telephone, right?

[Cadet Happy]

Right. I call it the magic phone you can carry anywhere.

[Dick Tufeld]

Yes, sir. See how the spaceophone sounds, boys and girls? Just like a telephone. Just like a walkie talkie and lots of fun. Yes, sir. So send for your spaceophone set today. You get two blue and yellow plastic spaceophones. You get 50ft of communication cord. You get a spaceophone briefing sheet. Now, here's all you do to get the entire set. Buy a box of instant Roston. Then with your name and address, send 25 cents in coin and an instant Ralston box top to Space Patrol, Box 686-St. Louis, Missouri. This offer good only in continental US and may be withdrawn at any time. That's Space Patrol, Box 686, St. Louis, Missouri. The Space Patrol, with its well trained personnel, has a very high morale. Disciplinary action is rarely necessary. In fact, a serious infraction of important regulations is so unusual that Commander Cory himself insists on a personal accounting from the man involved. Right now, Buzz is reading a report from the commandant of the Mercury Patrol Squadron as Happy enters the central office on Terra.

[Cadet Happy]

Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Yes, Happy?

[Cadet Happy]

Lieutenant Grayson's waiting in the outer office.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Thanks. Ask him to come in, please.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Yes, sir.

[Cadet Happy]

Lieutenant Grayson, Commander Corey wants to see you.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

I'll call you when I'm through here, Happy.

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, sir.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

At ease, Lieutenant. Sit down.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Yes, sir. You have an exceptionally fine record.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

I've been looking it over, and so far I can find no explanation for.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Your behavior of the last few hours. I'm sorry, Commander. Is that all you have to say? Except that I'm ready to take the braincraft test, Lieutenant.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

It shouldn't be necessary to resort to the brain O graph to obtain a routine report from a Space Patrol officer.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

I realize that, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

You return from a routine search mission, three hours overdue and with ammunition expended, yet you refuse to offer any explanation.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Those are the facts, Commander. I want a straightforward answer.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Why didn't you file a report with your commanding officer?

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Commander, Colonel Gregory is a practical officer. He goes strictly by regulations, by routine.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

That's hardly a criticism, Lieutenant.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

I realize that, sir. But if I told Colonel Gregory what happened out there, he'd conclude that I was, well, space.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Happy, you're not responsible for the conclusions of your commanding officer.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

In all due respect, Commander, in this case, I'm not so sure.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

What do you mean?

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Something's out there in space that regulations don't cover. Commander. I want a brainograph test so I can be sure of myself. Sure that my mind isn't playing tricks on me.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Grayson, Suppose you tell me the whole story.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

All right, Commander. I was about to head back for Mercury when I saw a meteor. I tracked it on the view scope to see if it was headed toward any shipping lanes. Yes, it was still pretty big on the screen when it suddenly vanished.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Exploded?

[Lieutenant Grayson]

No, sir. Just vanished. I started after it and checked for fragments. There weren't any. It was just as though. As though the meteor disappeared into a hole in space.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

A hole in space?

[Lieutenant Grayson]

I know it doesn't make sense, but that's the only way I can describe it. Nothing showed up on the view scope. I tried both the ultraviolet and infrared scanners. Nothing.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

What about the cosmic missiles you fired?

[Lieutenant Grayson]

I swung in a wide circle around the point where the meteor disappeared. Suddenly, a black spot appeared on the sun, as though a planet were between me and the sun. An eclipse?

[Commander Buzz Corey]

But it wasn't a planet.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

No, Commander. There was no planet within thousands of du's, there was nothing, no solid object to account for that spot.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Well, maybe it was on the sun itself.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

No, because it moved across the sun in relation to the movement of my ship. That's when I fired the cosmic missiles.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

What happened? The missiles vanished without an explosion.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Without an explosion?

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Lieutenant, that's the strangest story I ever heard.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

You don't believe me.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

I didn't say that. I think your account deserves further investigation. You should have told Colonel Gregory.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

He'd have put me in the infirmary for mental and emotional checkup. I figured I'd get a brainograph test sooner if I risked disciplinary action. And I was right. He sent me here to Terra immediately.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

That isn't a very wise risk to take, Grayson.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Commander, that thing in space, whatever it is, is moving. Moving toward the inner planets.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Can you point out the location where you saw it on that wall chart?

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Yes, sir. It was approaching the Mercury orbit on a line from the star Myra. About here, sir. How fast was it moving? It seemed to vary. But at the time, I wasn't in any condition to make accurate measurements. I thought I was going space Happy for certain.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Are you ready for that Brain O graph test?

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Yes, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

And come on.

[Cadet Happy]

Oh, excuse me, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Happy, will you get Major Robertson? I want to run a brainograph test.

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, sir. Oh, here's a top priority bulletin from Communications, sir. A robot space freighter vanished.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

What do you mean, vanished?

[Cadet Happy]

Well, it suddenly pulled off course. Two passenger ships tracked it. It swung in a wide circle, then smaller and smaller circles and then just disappeared. Not a trace on the view scopes.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Where did this happen?

[Cadet Happy]

Midway between Mercury and Venus, sir. On an orientation line with Myra.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Lieutenant Grayson, I think we'll cancel that brainograph test. Happy. Yes, sir. Get my ship ready immediately. I'll notify Colonel Gregory that Lieutenant Grayson is assigned a temporary duty with headquarters.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Thank you, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

As astrogator aboard Terra 5.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Commander, we're out beyond the point where.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

The robot freighter vanished. Very good, Lieutenant. Happy, establish a zigzag course toward the sun.

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

We'll lace back and forth across the line between the sun and Myra. Reduce our velocity to 10,000. Du's right, sir.

[Cadet Happy]

All view scopes negative, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

What's our approximate position? Grayson?

[Lieutenant Grayson]

In a few minutes we'll cross the Venus orbit, sir.

[Cadet Happy]

This is the craziest search I've ever been on, Commander. Looking for something that isn't here.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

It's there all right. It just doesn't show up on any instruments. If you could have seen that meteor vanish and those missing.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Wait. There's something moving across the sun.

[Cadet Happy]

A black spot.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

That's it. We've located it.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Let's be certain. Check the view scope, Happy.

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Does anything register?

[Cadet Happy]

Nothing except the sun itself.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Reverse rockets while I turn on the space phone. Happy. We'll hold our present position for the time being, Commander. Cory and Terra 5 to Major Robertson at Space Patrol Headquarters. Terra. Commander Cor. Major Robertson. Major Robertson here. Go ahead, Commander. Robbie, we're at the Venus orbit. Sun. Myra, Orientation. We found what we're looking for. What is it? We don't know. It's visible only as a black spot against the sun. And it definitely is not a solid object. I've contacted Professor Joka for you, Commander. He's aboard Space Observatory Number two off Saturn. Good. Robbie, Space phone and all planets bulletin immediately. All shipping is to avoid this sector of space until further notice. Yes, Commander. All commercial, private and space patrol ships are to evacuate this sector immediately. Roger. Professor Jelka is waiting on the 150 megacycle channel, Commander. Bo. Thanks, Robbie. Corey out. Happy, switch to 150 MCs.

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Commander Corey aboard Terra 5 calling Professor Jelka aboard Space Observatory Number 2.

[Professor Jelka]

Professor Jelka here. Go ahead, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Professor, have you detected any unusual phenomenon in space the last few days in the direction of Myra? No.

[Professor Jelka]

No, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

There's something out there now within the orbit of Venus. It's not a solid object, but it cuts off light from the sun.

[Professor Jelka]

Well, it's possibly a cloud of gas or tiny particles.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Too sharp an outline, Professor. Besides, things like meteors, cosmic missiles and spaceships just don't disappear permanently in a gas cloud. Did you say disappear, vanish completely without an explosion or a trace.

[Professor Jelka]

Commander, I must have a chance to study this thing at once. I think I know what it is.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

It's got us baffled. What is it?

[Professor Jelka]

I call it a cycloplex.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Cycloplex?

[Professor Jelka]

I wrote a paper about it 12 years ago. Purely as a theoretical idea.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

This is no theory. It exists.

[Professor Jelka]

This is marvelous. Commander, with your permission, I pulled a.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Space observatory out of the orbit around.

[Professor Jelka]

Saturn and head for your present location.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Good. No ordinary instruments register it. You might have some that will set your vector for Pluto. Where that vector crosses the orbit of Venus, you'll roughly be at our position.

[Professor Jelka]

Thank you, Commander. I'll contact you when I'm under vector.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Good. Cory out.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Well, at least there's one man in the solar system who seems to have an idea what this thing is.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

I hope so. But what's more important, I hope he'll know what to do about it.

[Cadet Happy]

I've got the observatory in the view scope, sir. It's only a few du's away.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

A very good time, considering. Turn on the space phone, Happy. Yes, sir. Cory aboard Terra 5. Calling Professor Jelka.

[Professor Jelka]

Jelka here. Go ahead, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

We picked up the observatory in the view scope. Have you located us?

[Professor Jelka]

Yes, Commander, but I can't detect a cycloplex. I've used several types of detection devices.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

You'll see the black disc against the sun in a few minutes. We'll join space locks with you and come aboard the observatory.

[Professor Jelka]

Very good, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Cory out. Grayson.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Yes, sir.

[Dick Tufeld]

I'll.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Happy and I handle the controls. You watch that black spot. If it moves away from the sun, let me know.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Right, Commander.

[Cadet Happy]

We're abreast of the observatory airlock, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Good. Stand by with magnetic holding field.

[Cadet Happy]

Standing by, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Cory to Jelka.

[Professor Jelka]

Go ahead, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Professor, hold your space observatory on an even vector. We're going to make contact.

[Professor Jelka]

Yes, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Apply magnetic holding field. Happy.

[Cadet Happy]

Space lock secured, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Lieutenant Grayson, keep an eye on the controls. Happy, island of the observatory.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Yes, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Open the inner hatch, Happy. Press the release catch in the observatory hall.

[Professor Jelka]

Ah, come in, Commander. This is the most thrilling moment of.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

My life, Professor Jalka. It's about the most puzzling moment of mine. This is my cadet, Happy.

[Cadet Happy]

How do you do, Professor?

[Professor Jelka]

How do you do? I tell you, Commander, this is a cycloplex, just as I described it 12 years ago. They really do exist.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Fine, professor, but tell me, just what is a cycloplex?

[Professor Jelka]

Well, you might call it a hole in space.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

That's just the way Grayson described it.

[Professor Jelka]

Grayson.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Lieutenant Grayson, the Space Patrol officer who discovered it. Professor, this Cycloplex has already destroyed a meteor, two cosmic missiles and a robot spaceship. And it's moving toward the inner planets. If it holds its present direction and velocity, Mars will move right into it in a few days.

[Professor Jelka]

That would indeed be a calamity.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

What's the nature of this thing? What happens to objects that move into it?

[Professor Jelka]

Well, they are transported into other dimensions. Or perhaps into a matrix of several dimensions.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Well, they cease to exist in space as we know it. That's certain.

[Professor Jelka]

Yes. For years, mathematicians have speculated on the possibility of many separate dimensions existing simultaneously. I'd like to circle around it and study it some more. For to maneuver the observatory and still manage the instruments.

[Cadet Happy]

Commander, the controls are very much like standard spaceship controls. Couldn't I work them while the professor handles the instruments?

[Professor Jelka]

That would be splendid.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

All right, Happy, you maneuver the observatory. I'll go back to our ship with Grayson. We'll keep you informed as nearly as we can on the location of the Cycloplex.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Commander, they're getting pretty close.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

I'll tell Happy to be careful. Commander. Cory to Cadet Happy. Happy here.

[Cadet Happy]

Go ahead, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

You're bearing pretty close to the Cycloplex. Happy, change your vector.

[Cadet Happy]

The professor wants me to hold it on this heading. Sir, his instruments are beginning to pick up something.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Remember what happened to that robot spaceship, Cadet.

[Professor Jelka]

But this isn't a robot. And the instruments are picking up something. We are on the verge of an exciting discovery, Commander, according to my right.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Now, Professor, I'm relying on Grayson. He's had practical experience with this thing. Happy, this is an order. Pull away from the Cycloplex.

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, sir.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Look at the observatory. It's whirling toward it.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Happy, pull away from it.

[Cadet Happy]

I'm trying to, sir, but the rockets don't seem to have any effect.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Use full power on your starboard rockets.

[Cadet Happy]

I am, but we're caught in some sort of a whirlpool.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Half hit, full repeller race. If you're caught in that cycle flex you're fitting.

[Dick Tufeld]

We'll be back with Space Patrol in just a moment. Hi, gang. Space Patroller Dick Tufeld speaking from the planet Earth. Today I'm doing a man on the street report. Going to see what some of these young fellas here on their way to school think about those things. Three Checkerboard Super Cereals, Rice Chex, Wheat Chex and Instant Ralston. Now here's a sharp looking lad. Say, tell me, what did you say the very first time you tried delicious Wheat Chex, that bite sized super cereal spun out of shredded wheat.

[Cadet Happy]

What did I say?

[Commander Buzz Corey]

I said, enough said.

[Dick Tufeld]

Thank you. Now here's a fine looking boy. Say, what do you think of Rice Chex, the bite sized super cereal made of crisp and crunchy shredded rice. What did you say, for example, the very first time you tried it? Thank you. That's good enough for me. And here's another young man. Tell me, what's your opinion of Instant Ralston, the hot super cereal?

[Cadet Happy]

Man, oh man, oh man, oh man.

[Dick Tufeld]

There you are, gang. That's what these fellows think about the checkerboard super cereals. The only three official cereals of the Space Patrol. Try them yourself, you'll say the same thing.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Man, oh man, oh man, oh man.

[Dick Tufeld]

Get him at your grocers today in the red and white checkerboard packages. The super cereals that help to supercharge you. Rice checks, wheat checks, and to warm up your motor. Good. Hot Ralston. A Space Patrol officer, Lieutenant Grayson, has discovered an alarming peril in outer space. An invisible force that. This completely destroys matter without leaving a trace. Professor Jelka, an astronomer and mathematician, says this force, which he calls a Cycloplex, is actually a hole in outer space. Happy, piloting the space observatory for the professor, flew in too close to the strange force. Now the observatory is being whirled closer and closer to disaster. Meantime, Commander Corey and Lieutenant Grayson, in terror the 5th, are trying desperately to to find a way to save Happy and Professor Jelka.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Happy, is your repeller A on full?

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, sir. All rockets on the starboard side and stern as well.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

The observatory is being pulled faster than ever towards a Cycloplex.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Jelka never should have ordered Happy to go so close.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Observatories have a very low power ratio in proportion to their mass, Grayson. We can only give it a boost with our own power.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

You mean make magnetic contact with the observatory?

[Dick Tufeld]

Yes.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Great idea, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

You realize what'll happen if we fail?

[Lieutenant Grayson]

I'm waiting your orders, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

And let's go. You handle a magnetic holding field, Grayson?

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Yes, sir, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

What are you doing? Going to tow you away from the Cycloplex.

[Cadet Happy]

Don't try it, sir. There's some sort of a whirlpool effect. A vortex, the professor calls it.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Verify they have enough power to pull itself and the observatory out of danger. But sir, you can't. The sooner we act, the better chance we'll all have. Stand by for orders.

[Cadet Happy]

Standing by, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

We're ready to make contact. Happy, Grayson, apply magnetic holding field. Yes, sir. All right, Happy, keep the Observatory rockets on full power.

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

We're going to increase our own power slowly at first. We won't try to fight the cycloplex force too strongly. We'll cut across at a tangent. Understand?

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Here we go.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Is it working, Commander?

[Commander Buzz Corey]

I can't tell yet. Happy?

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

As I increase the ship's power, it'll put a terrific strain on the hull of the observatory. Watch for any sign of damage.

[Cadet Happy]

I will, Commander. There's that sound again.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

What is it? It's coming from a spacer phone system. Happy, do you hear it?

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, sir. You're picking it up from the Professor's instrument. He says it's caused by the cycloplex.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Commander, our vector's changing.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

We're moving away from the cycloplex. We'll add a little more power. Abby, did the professor turn off his instrument? No, sir. Then we're free of the cycloplex pole. That's right, sir.

[Cadet Happy]

We're swinging away in the other direction.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Good.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Wow, what a relief.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Abby will proceed several DU's away from this position until we're sure we're safe before we break contact.

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Then we'll join space locks and come aboard the observatory. Got it?

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, Commander. I'll maintain vector till further orders.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Check Corey out.

[Professor Jelka]

Come in.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Commander, how did the observatory stand up under that pole?

[Professor Jelka]

Well, apparently quite well.

[Cadet Happy]

Smoking rockets, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

For a while there, I thought we.

[Cadet Happy]

Were all going to plunge right into the core of that Cycloplex.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

I thought so, too. Happy. Professor, did you manage to find out anything about this phenomenon?

[Professor Jelka]

Very little. Although it did finally activate some of the instruments.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Exactly what is it, this force?

[Professor Jelka]

I can't say. Apparently, this vortex, the whirlpool effect, is some sort of an electromagnetism. And that might account for its effect on instruments.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

And this whirlpool effect extends beyond the core?

[Professor Jelka]

Yes. It draws the objects into the center if they get too close.

[Cadet Happy]

We sure found that out.

[Professor Jelka]

And we also know that this force is moving steadily toward Mars.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

We've got to get busy and do something.

[Cadet Happy]

Is this cycloplex big enough to swallow a whole planet?

[Commander Buzz Corey]

What about that, Professor?

[Professor Jelka]

Well, the core itself is fairly small, but with that vortex of force around it, it might easily demolish Mars. Certainly, it would make it unlivable.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Well, how can we fight this Cyclopex? Every force we know of has some other force that can oppose it.

[Professor Jelka]

But this thing is from some other dimension, Commander. It's an intruder into our space time system.

[Cadet Happy]

You mean it isn't even from another galaxy? From another part of our space?

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Yes.

[Professor Jelka]

It's completely new to us, Cadet.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

It's impossible to imagine dimensions beyond the three we know. Length, breadth and thickness. Professor, you mentioned that it has some sort of magnetic effect.

[Professor Jelka]

That's right.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Suppose we could produce a powerful magnetic force to oppose it.

[Professor Jelka]

It would take more power than any planet power system could produce. And how could we transfer it here?

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Professor, you've heard of Huddleston's ring, haven't you?

[Professor Jelka]

Yes. Very interesting effect.

[Cadet Happy]

What's Huddleston's ring, sir?

[Commander Buzz Corey]

It makes use of an effect that occurs at temperatures close to absolute zero.

[Cadet Happy]

Like those of outer space?

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Exactly.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Extremely low temperatures. Some metals become superconductors of electricity.

[Cadet Happy]

Superconductors.

[Professor Jelka]

They have no resistance to flow of current.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

That means if a current is started in a ring made of a superconducting material, it flows indefinitely, even when the.

[Cadet Happy]

Power is cut off.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Right. And if the power is constantly applied, the current builds up, it increases more and more.

[Cadet Happy]

I see.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

A scientist named Huddleston has been conducting experiments with a giant ring in outer space. Near Jupiter?

[Professor Jelka]

Yes. He has a laboratory spaceship in the center of the ring.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Suppose that Huddleston turns the power on full, charging that ring and the magnets around it and keeps the power on. Would it destroy the Cycloplex?

[Professor Jelka]

Perhaps. It would be dangerous. A magnetic force of incredible intensity would be built up. There is no telling.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Professor, I want to send Huddleston's ring into that Cyclopex under robot control. Naturally.

[Cadet Happy]

Professor, do you think it would work?

[Professor Jelka]

I don't know, but it's a challenging experiment. If it did, it would prove that electromagnetism is a force common to all dimensions of existence.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Right now, I'm not interested in proving any theory. I want to save Mars. Happy, let's get back to Terra 5. I want to contact Huddleston.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Cycloplex seems to be moving steadily toward Mars, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Keep the ship moving with it. Grayson, keep that black circle right in the center of the sun.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Yes, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Major Robertson, Space Patrol Headquarters Terra calling Commander Corey aboard Terra 5. I'll take it, Happy, if you hand me that vector analysis, please.

[Cadet Happy]

Here you are, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Corey here. Robbie. Go ahead. We've contacted Huddleston, Commander. He's all enthused over the idea. Good. How long will it take him to get the ring on the way? Does he have to convert the controls to robots? No. A robot unit was built into the ship. Huddleston's in the ring waiting for your instructions. Well, here's the Procedure, Robbie. Huddleston will pull out of the orbit around Jupiter under manual control. Check when he's on the vector, which I give you in a minute. A space patrol cruiser will pick him up in space. Huddleston will handle the ring and its lab ship by remote control until we pick it up on our view scope. Got it, Commander. Then I'll take control of the ring from that point on. Okay, Robbie, here's the vector I want you to relay to Huddleston.

[Cadet Happy]

Nothing in the view scope yet, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Widen the scanning arc, Happy. The lab ship may be slightly off vector.

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, sir.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Yes, Grayson?

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Cycloplex seems to be increasing velocity.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Any change in vector?

[Lieutenant Grayson]

No, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

I'll check with Professor Jelka. Cory to Jelka in observatory.

[Professor Jelka]

Jelka here. Go ahead, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Lieutenant Grayson reports an increase in velocity by the cyclope.

[Professor Jelka]

He's right, Commander. My calculations confirm it.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Is it still heading toward Mars?

[Professor Jelka]

Yes, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Is there any possibility of its changing direction?

[Professor Jelka]

I'm afraid its motion is unpredictable. We don't know enough about it.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Well, that's all, Professor. Thank you, Commander. Look at the view scope.

[Cadet Happy]

I never saw an image like that before.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Isn't very clear. Happy, see if you can get rid of that blur.

[Cadet Happy]

I'll try it, sir. No, sir. That's as clear as I can get it.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

I'll check with Robbie. Commander Corey to Major Robertson.

[Dick Tufeld]

Robertson here.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Go ahead, Commander. We picked something up in the view scope, but it doesn't look like Huddleston's ring and lab ship. You got a blurred blotch. Yes, that's the ring, Commander. I've been tracking it from Jupiter. Huddleston says your screen's blur is a tremendous magnetic force. Right, Robbie. I'm ready to take over control of the ring. It's now 1420 and 15 seconds. Universal Star time. Tell Huddleston the switchover will occur at 14:21. Cory out.

[Cadet Happy]

The ring's approaching very fast, Commander.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

The robot control panel is ready, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Fine, Grayson. Happy, you take over our controls.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Yes, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Grayson, feed the viewscope data into the vector computer.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Yes, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

I want to get the ring headed for the target as soon as possible after switch over. Might be hard to control if that magnetic force builds up much higher.

[Cadet Happy]

Ten seconds to switch over.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Trajectory computed, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Thanks, Grayson.

[Cadet Happy]

Five seconds. Three, zero.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Now we'll find out if we've got the ring under control. Watch your view scope, Grayson. See if the ring turns in the new vector.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

It's responding, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Good. It's heading straight for the Cycloplex now. Nothing to do but wait and hope it works. A few more seconds, we'll know. Yeah.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

Huddleston's ring is practically in the outer field of the vortex now.

[Cadet Happy]

Nothing's happening, though.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Wait. The blur on the lab ship seems to be dimming.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

It's as though the Cycloplex were choking down the magnetism.

[Cadet Happy]

Look, you can see the outline of the ring now.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

And the landship. Afraid it's not going to work, Commander. The power of the Cycloplex is too strong.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Wow. Look at that.

[Cadet Happy]

The lab ship just flew apart.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

The ring is still intact.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

The blur is building up again.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Magnetic force pulled the ship apart.

[Cadet Happy]

The rings in the black circle now. Something's happening.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

It's a battle of magnetic forces.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

The black circle is growing smaller.

[Dick Tufeld]

It sure is.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

It's shrinking rapidly.

[Lieutenant Grayson]

If that ring can hold up long enough.

[Cadet Happy]

The cycloplex isjust a black.it's gone. The cycloplex is gone. Commander, it worked.

[Dick Tufeld]

Phew.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Look at the view scope, man. Huddleston's ring is still there.

[Cadet Happy]

Thanks to you, Commander. It saved a planet.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

It took all of us. Enter the story in our logbook. Capping.

[Cadet Happy]

Yes, sir.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

What a mission to describe. We've just filled in a hole in empty space.

[Cadet Happy]

Hey, maybe I should make the log entry in invisible ink.

[Dick Tufeld]

We'll be back with an exciting preview of next week's thrilling Space Patrol adventure in just a moment. Hey, it's got things popping everywhere. It's setting the world on fire. It's even stopping traffic. What am I talking about? I'm talking about the Space Patrol Spaceophone. And I'm going to tell you how to get a set. A set complete with two spaceophones, 50ft of communication cord, and an official briefing sheet on spaceophoning. What an offer. What an invention. The magic phone you can carry everywhere. Sounds like the walkie talkie in the telephone. Barrels of fun. You can talk to someone standing a straight 50ft away. Now I'll show you with this Spaceophone here. Hello, Commander Corey.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Hi, Dick. Hi, gang. Aren't these Spaceophones terrific? You can play Space Patrol with them just as though you were a real Space Patroller living up here on Terra.

[Dick Tufeld]

Yes, sir. Gang, your Spaceophone will look exactly like the one Space Patrollers use. Only yours will be even more terrific because they're a special model made for use on Earth alone. And good looking too. Handsome. Blue and yellow plastic.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Don't wait. Send me your Spaceophone set today.

[Dick Tufeld]

Complete with two spaceophons, 50ft of cord and a briefing sheet. Now here's all you do. Buy a box of Instant Ralston. Then with your name and address, send 25 cents in coin and an Instant Ralston box top to Space Patrol, Box 686-St. Louis, Missouri. That's Space Patrol, Box 686, St. Louis, Missouri. And now an action preview of next week's exciting Space Patrol story. Buzz and Happy have been captured by two criminals and are aboard a relay space station near the Pluto orbit. While the criminals are removing a secret power unit, Buzz and Happy are locked in a passageway looking for some method of escape.

[Cadet Happy]

The lights. What happened to the lights?

[Commander Buzz Corey]

They must have disconnected the cosmolite power unit.

[Cadet Happy]

They'll be coming through the passage in a minute to get us, Commander.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

They won't need to. Happy Stacker has already figured out how he's going get rid of us.

[Cadet Happy]

How?

[Commander Buzz Corey]

When they get back into their ship, they're going to leave the relay station airlock open.

[Cadet Happy]

What?

[Commander Buzz Corey]

In a few seconds, this passage will be a complete vacuum. Every bit of air will escape into space.

[Dick Tufeld]

Be sure to be with us next Saturday for the exciting story, the Glow Worm Project. When wheat checks, rice checks and good hot Ralston again. Bring you Space Patrol. And now a special message from Commander Corey.

[Commander Buzz Corey]

Boys and girls, this is your commander. I'm now holding an important bottle. When empty, it's worth very little. When filled, it's the most valuable bottle in the world. I mean when it's filled with the greatest gift one person can give to another. His own blood. America has millions of these bottles to fill and any grown up can fill them. So gang, will you help me get that message across to every grown up in the usa? Then do this. Join the Space Patrol blood boosters now.

[Dick Tufeld]

Space Patrol and original Mike Moser productions. Starring Ed Kemmer as Commander Corey and Lynn Osborne as Cadet Happy was written by Lou Houston, directed by Larry Robertson. Other players were Baylor Kovach, Ken Mayer, Dick Beals and Norman Jolly. Dick Tufeld speaking. Now, don't forget to tune in next Saturday. And every Saturday when wheat checks, rice checks and good hot Ralston again present the new exciting Space Patrol. And be sure to see another exciting Space Patrol story on your local ABC television station. Consult your local paper for time and channel. Space Patrol comes to you. Transcribed from Hollywood this is ABC Radio Network.