X Minus One – The Map Makers (1956)

Описание: The Map Makers (1956) is a classic episode of X Minus One, featuring a speculative narrative rooted in the psychological and physical dangers of interstellar navigation. Written by Frederik Pohl and hosted by Norman Rose, this broadcast exemplifies the artistry of mid-20th-century radio storytelling through its adaptation of contemporary science fiction literature.

🎙️ Program: X Minus One
Episode: #068 - The Map Makers
Original Air Date: September 26, 1956
Genre: Science Fiction
Running Time: 29:35
Host: Norman Rose

The crew of a stellar mapping vessel is tasked with the grueling and often monotonous duty of charting the unknown sectors of the galaxy. Their routine is shattered when a mechanical failure forces an emergency landing on an unexplored planet inhabited by beings whose perception of reality is entirely alien to human understanding. As the surveyors attempt to repair their craft, they realize that their instruments and maps are useless against a species that views the universe through psychic or non-linear dimensions. The narrative delves into the isolation of space travel and the existential dread of encountering life that treats human explorers as mere curiosities or biological anomalies rather than sentient peers.

🎭 Starring Cast
• Nelson Olmsted (Known for frequent appearances in X Minus One and Dimension X)
• Bob Hastings (Veteran radio performer active during the mid-20th century)
• Joe DeSantis (Known for voice work in various NBC and CBS dramas)
• Stan Early (Active in New York radio circles during the 1950s)

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📻 Production Notes & Historical Context
• Adapted from the short story by Frederik Pohl which first appeared in Galaxy Science Fiction magazine in July 1955.
• The script was adapted for radio by George Lefferts, a prolific writer for NBC science fiction programs.
• This episode was part of a collaborative effort between NBC and Galaxy Science Fiction to bring modern literary sci-fi to the airwaves.
• The sound effects for the starship's propulsion and the alien environment were created using manually operated mechanical devices and recorded tape loops.

💬 Character Quote
"The maps are right, the math is right, but the universe outside that viewport doesn't care about our geometry."

📡 Broadcasting History
During the 1950s, NBC utilized the Orthacoustic recording process to improve the fidelity of transcriptions for delayed broadcasts across different time zones.

📻 Vintage Radio Spotlight
1951 Zenith Trans-Oceanic H500. A premium multi-band portable radio featuring a five-tube chassis and a Black Stag grained fabrikoid case. It included a Waverod antenna and was designed to receive shortwave, amateur, and standard AM frequencies, often marketed as 'The Royalty of Radios'.

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