Polaris Control Deck Office Polaris Radar Bridge Freighter Power Deck Corridor Black Set:
Mini. Rocketships
A ROCKHILL PRODUCTION
FADE IN:
1. SPACEPORT MINIATURE
KRAFT CAMERA MAN COMES ON AGAINST A SKY DROP, CROSSES TO CENTER STAGE, STOPS & TURNS SLOWLY TO LEFT AND THEN TO RIGHT, SHOWING "K". MUSIC: KRAFT THEME IN UNDER ABOVE & FADE UNDER
ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
CAMERAMAN TRAVELS ACROSS STAGE AND WE PAN WITH IT AS IT REACHES SPACEPORT.
IT CROSSES TOWARD A LARGE ROCKET AND WE PAN AND DOLLY IN TOWARD ROCKET
- DISSOLVE TO:
2. CONTROL DECK
TOM CORBETT SEATED AT CONTROLS, SEEN THRU & FRAMED BY VIEWPORT,
CALLING INTO INTERCOM
SOUND: WARNING BEEPS & BUILD PRE-TAKE-OFF RUMBLE.
TOM
3. FILM (16 mm NS) - SPACE CADET SIGNATURE
MUSIC: SPACE CADET THEME UP AND HOLD
SUPER TELOP A Kraft Caramels - without starfield)
ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
Kraft Caramels, the delicious quick energy treat, presents
TAKE OUT TELOP A
SUPER TELOP B (Tom Corbett, Space Cadet)
ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
SUPER TELOP C (starring Frankie Thomas)
ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
starring Frankie Thomas
TAKE OUT TELOP C
SUPER TELOP D
with Al Markim & Jack Grimes
TAKE OUT TELOP D
MUSIC: UP FOR 3 SECONDS AND LOSE UNDER
ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
This is the Age of the Conquest of Space, where today -
DISSOLVE TO:
4. CORRIDOR INCLUDES LARGE BULLETIN BOARD, COVERED WITH LISTS AND A
CLOSED DOOR ON THE OTHER SIDE
ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
(CONT'D)
Tom Corbett and his unit-mates take their end-term examinations
and risk their lives to pass "The Final Test"!
THROUGH NARRATION ERIC APPEARS IN THE CORRIDOR AND STOPS AT THE BULLETIN BOARD TO CHECK THE LARGE LIST. HE FROWNS AND SHAKES HIS HEAD AT WHAT HE SEES.
TOM (O.C.)
Hey - Eric - !
ERIC TURNS TOWARD CAMERA AS TOM AND T.J. ENTER FROM CAMERA.
ERIC
Oh - hello, Tom - T.J.
TOM
Have you see Astro - ?
ERIC
Why - no
T.J.
He's taking his nucleonics exam in there (GESTURES TOWARD
CLOSED DOOR) He should 've been finished ten minutes ago.
ERIC
Well - I just got here. I could've missed him.
TOM
We wouldn't have. We've been waiting outside.
T.J.
Looks like he's having trouble.
ERIC
Ahh - what're you worried about? Astro's one of the top power jockeys
in the Academy - he should breeze through nucleonics.
TOM
You don't know Astro. Give him some old scrap metal and a set of
tools and he'll build an atomic reactor for you
T.J.
But ask him how he does it - make him write it out in an exam -
and he freezes. All of a sudden, he's the dumbest guy this side of Jupiter.
ERIC
Well - I sure wish you fellas better luck than I had.
TOM
What do you mean? You didn't flunk out, did you?
ERIC
No - but Coleman and Riley did - so now I'm without a crew.
TOM
That's too bad, Eric
T.J.
What'll they do now? Give you another pilot and Astrogator?
ERIC
That - or assign me to a unit that's lost a power Jockey. (BREAK)
Well - guess I'd better go over to Commander Arkwright's office and
find out what the score is. See you later, fellas.
TOM
Sure thing, Eric.
ERIC
(STARTS TOWARD CAMERA AND PAUSES)
Oh - and spaceman's luck - about Astro, I mean. You three are the
best crew in the Academy - be a shame if you were broken up.
ERIC TURNS AND EXITS TOWARD CAMERA, LEAVING T.J. AND TOM, LOOKING AT EACH OTHER, WORRIED.
T.J.
You - you don't think that 'll happen, do you, Tom - ?
TOM
Let's face it, T.J. - it could. (HE TURNS TO BULLETIN BOARD
AND CHECKS LIST)
Look at these grades -Astro barely got by in his other exams - and
if he flunks out on this one - (SHAKES HIS HEAD)
T.J.
But Tom - if he does, won't we be dropped, too? The unit's supposed
to pass as a whole isn't it?
TOM
No - that's only for first year cadets. We're on our own now.
T.J.
Well - that's some consolation, I suppose .
TOM
Not to Astro, Before at least - our marks could have pulled his
average up.
T. J .
Gosh - I'd sure hate to think of somebody else on that power deck
- wouldn't it be awful?
TOM
Ohh - go hang crepe somewhere else, will you?
(TURNS AWAY ANGRILY)
T.J.
Okay - okay - don't get sore. I know how you feel. I feel the same
way. Astro was the best fall guy I ever had. I'll miss him.
TOM (ANGRILY)
The Academy's going to miss you if you don't plug your exhaust!
DOOR OPENS SUDDENLY AND ASTRO WALKS OUT SLOWLY. HE DOESN'T LOOK VERY OPTIMISTIC.
T.J.
Astro - I...
TOM
Astro - how'd you do - ?
T.J.
You passed, didn't you - ?
AS TOM AND T.J. CROWD AROUND HIM, ASTRO SAYS NOTHING.
TOM
Well - didn't you - ?
ASTRO
I don't know, Tom
T.J.
What do you mean - you don't know ? Didn't Captain Strong tell you?
ASTRO
No - he just took my paper and left the room - didn't say a word.
TOM
But you must have some idea, Astro.
ASTRO
I honestly don't, Tom. I tried - I tried my darndest - but I kept
drawing blanks. It was all stuff I know - but I - I just couldn't find
the right words to answer the questions - and then when everybody else
finished - and left - and I sat there alone - I - just froze. Captain Strong
finally called time on me.
TOM AND T.J. GLANCE AT EACH OTHER CONCERNED.
ASTRO NOTICES IT.
ASTRO
Looks bad, doesn't it?
TOM (COVERING)
No - no, of course not, Astro.
T.J.
Doesn't mean a thing pal. My dough says you passed with flying colors.
ASTRO
Yeah? (GRIMLY) Save your money, T.J. I got a hunch you'd
loose.
ASTRO SLOWLY WALKS FORWARD AND OUT OF CAMERA,
LEAVING TOM AND T.J. LOOKING AFTER HIM, WORRIED.
T.J.
Look at him. He's practically ready to back his bags.
TOM
I know.
T.J.
It couldn't have been as bad as he thinks, Tom! Why he knows stuff
about nucleonics that hasn't even been invented yet - I
TOM
Sure - but do Captain Strong and Commander Arkwright know that?
Come on - let's try to cheer him up.
T.J.
Okay - but who's going to cheer us up?
AS BOTH EXIT AFTER ASTRO
DISSOLVE TO:
5. OFFICE USUAL FURNISHINGS OF DESK, CHAIRS, STAR CHARTS ON WALLS ETC. ARKWRIGHT IS SEATED BEHIND DESK, LOOKING OVER EXAMINATION PAPER. HE FINALLY DROPS IT WITH A SIGH, TAKES OFF GLASSES AND LOOKS UP AT STRONG, WHO IS WAITING BESIDE THE DESK.
ARKWRIGHT
No, Strong - I'm afraid not. I can't allow you to give Cadet Astro
a passing mark on this paper.
STRONG
I know that, Commander Arkwright. But I had a very definite reason
for showing it to you.
(LEANS OVER AND INDICATES VARIOUS PLACES ON THE PAPER WHILE HE SPEAKS)
Look at some of these answers - badly worded - unfinished - confused
thoughts -
ARKWRIGHT
Exactly why he failed.
STRONG
But sir - the general information is there - Astro simply doesn't
know how to express himself well.
ARKWRIGHT
What am I supposed to do about it? Give him an interpreter?
STRONG
Of course not. But I think you realize that whatever he's done on
this examination Astro is one of the best power deck cadets in the Academy.
If we wash him out on the basis of this paper, the Solar Guard will be
losing a valuable officer. To say nothing of breaking up an excellent cadet
crew.
ARKWRIGHT
I know - I know, Strong - but what can I do? All cadets have to
take examinations, we can't make any special rulings for him.
STRONG
I wouldn't ask for that Commander. But the Polaris crew hasn't taken
the tactical part of the exam yet - they haven't made their final demonstration
flight in space.
ARKWRIGHT
ARKWRIGHT
I see what you mean. It would be perfectly legitimate to apply the
score to Astro's grade.
STRONG
That's right, sir. We wouldn't be doing the other cadet units an
injustice because we're asking the Polaris crew to do a harder job.
ARKWRIGHT
Yes. All right, Strong. Withhold Astro's grade until the Polaris
crew completes its flight. And be fair - Make it a rough one!
STRONG
I certainly will, sir - and thank you.
(HE STARTS TO EXIT)
ARKWRIGHT
Just a minute, Strong. Cadet Eric Rattison is up for reassignment,
isn't he?
STRONG
Why yes, sir
ARKWRIGHT
Send him along on that flight with the Polaris crew. He might as
well start familiarizing himself with their operations - just in case.
STRONG
(TROUBLED) Aye aye sir.
STRONG SALUTES AND EXITS AND ARKWRIGHT STUDIES ASTRO'S
EXAM PAPERS AGAIN, SHAKING HIS HEAD OMINOUSLY.
FADE TO:
6. KRAFT TELOP
KRAFT COMMERCIAL # 1
FADE IN:
7. PHOTOGRAPH
ACADEMY SPACEPORT. HOLD FOR:
STRONG (O.C. - PA)
Attention Polaris Unit! Attention Polaris Unit! Report to your ship
and stand by for immediate blast-off! Report to your ship and stand by
for immediate blast-off!
DISSOLVE TO:
S. POLARIS RADAR BRIDGE
T.J. BUSY PREPARING HIS STATION FOR BLAST-OFF. HE FINALLY CROSSES TO
INTERCOM.
T.J.
Hello, Tom - check in.
TOM (FILTER)
Yeah - go ahead, T.J.
T.J.
Radar Bridge is heated up and ready. And we're on emergency clearance.
We can raise ship any time you say the word.
CUT TO:
9. CONTROL DECK
TOM AT INTERCOM
TOM
That's the word I haven't got yet, T.J. - I haven't received any
orders from Captain Strong.
T.J. (FILTER)
What's this flight all about anyhow?
TOM
It's the tactical part of our end-term exams - but I don't know
why Captain Strong is being so mysterious about it.
T.J. (FILTER)
Well - at least Astro should feel better.
TOM
Hmmm? How do you figure that?
SOUND: HATCH CLANK OFF
T.J. (FILTER)
If he'd flunked that nucleonics exam, he wouldn't be taking this
flight, would he? Simple.
ASTRO ENTERS THROUGH SPEECH
ASTRO
Something's simple all right - but I wish I knew what.
TOM
Hold it a second, T.J. - (TURNS TO ASTRO) Wasn't your grade
posted, Astro?
ASTRO
No - and nobody at Administration could tell me anything. I even
tried to see Commander Arkwrlght - but no soap.
TOM
That's funny.
ASTRO
Sure is - I'm laughing my head off.
T.J. (FILTER)
Hey - what's going on down there?
TOM
Oh - (BACK INTO INTERCOM) Astro just came aboard, T.J. -
his mark hasn't been posted yet.
T.J. (FILTER)
Ahh - stop worrying. He's in, I tell you - or he wouldn' t be on
this flight.
TOM
I hope you're right. Well - stand by - I'll let you know when we
get our orders.
T.J. (FILTER)
Okay.
TOM REPLACES INTERCOM.
ASTRO
You think T.J. is right?
TOM (SHRUGS)
What he said makes sense, I suppose.
ASTRO
But nothing else does - that's just the trouble. I sure wish I knew
where I stood.
SOUND: HATCH CLANK
AS TOM AND ASTRO TURN TOWARD HATCH, ERIC ENTERS
ERIC
Hi, fellas -
TOM (SURPRISED)
Hello, Eric -
ASTRO
Hi, Eric - glad you came aboard. I was afraid I wouldn't get a chance
to say goodby before you left on vacation.
ERIC
Oh - I'm not leaving yet -
ASTRO
You mean they stuck you with extra duty? Aw - that's tough -
TOM
They making you line up a new crew before you leave?
ERIC (PUZZLED)
Don't you fellas know?
ASTRO
Know? Know what?
ERIC
I'm going on this flight with you.
ASTRO
You what - ?
TOM
Why - ?
ERIC
Captain Strong's orders. I'm going along as power deck observer.
TOM
Power deck - !
ASTRO
Hey - wait a minute - what're you giving us - ?
ERIC
I'm just telling you what my orders are, Astro
ASTRO
But what do I need an observer for?
ERIC
How should I know?
TOM
This doesn't make any sense, Eric -
ASTRO
It does to me. Eric just isn't telling us everything.
ERIC
What - ?
TOM
What do you mean, Astro?
ASTRO
Add it up. Eric's a power jockey without a crew - and after that
exam this afternoon, the Polaris is a crew With out a power jockey!
TOM
Now wait a minute - you're jumping to conclusions.
ASTRO
Am I? How about it, Eric?
ERIC
Believe me, Astro - I don't know any more than what I just told
you. Captain Strong ordered me on this flight as a power deck observer
and that's it!
ASTRO
I'll bet - !
SOUND: INTERCOM BUZZ
STRONG (FILTER)
Captain Strong to Polaris. Captain Strong to Polaris. Check in!
TOM
(CROSSING TO INTERCOM UNDER ABOVE) Wait - the skipper'll straighten
everything out. (INTO INTERCOM) Rocket Cruiser Polaris, Cadet Corbett
here.
STRONG (FILTER)
Are you ready to raise ship, Corbett?
TOM
Yes sir. We're waiting for orders.
CUT TO:
9. OFFICE
VERY TIGHT ON CAPTAIN STRONG TALKING INTO MICROPHONE
STRONG
Very well. This is the tactical part of your examination. You will
fly to Mars and return on an orbital course of your own choosing. You will
be graded on elapsed time, distance covered, fuel consumed, condition of
ship on arrival, adherence to all space traffic rules and general performance.
Is that understood?
TOM (FILTER)
Aye aye air.
STRONG
That isn't all, Corbett. There is a derelict near the Mars orbit
- an abandoned freighter drifting near Space lane ten. You will find it
and take appropriate action.
CUT :
10. CONTROL DECK
TOM AT INTERCOM, ASTRO AND ERIC BEHIND HIM
TOM
Excuse me, sir - but what do you mean by appropriate action?
STRONG (FILTER)
Get rid of it, of course! It's a menace to space traffic!
TOM
Very well, sir - I understand.
ERIC
Boy - that's a rougher exam than we had to take!
ASTRO
Tom - ask him about Eric - !
TOM (NODS)
Sir - one more thing - Cadet Rattison is aboard - he says he's under
your orders to go on this flight as power deck observer.
STRONG (FILTER)
Yes, he is.
TOM
May I ask why, sir - ?
STRONG (FILTER)
You will obey orders, Corbett - that is all.
TOM GLANCES HELPLESSLY AT ASTRO WHO SUDDENLY GRABS MIKE
ASTRO (INTO MIKE)
Captain Strong - this is Astro - ! Excuse me - but when am I going
to know if I passed that
nucleonics exam or not?
STRONG (FILTER)
You'll know at the proper time, Astro. All I can tell you now is
that you're still being graded.
ASTRO (SLOWLY)
I - I see. Thank you, sir - and excuse me for butting in.
ASTRO SLOWLY HANDS THE MIKE BACK TO TOM AND WALKS TOWARD STAR CHART
TOM
Hello, Captain Strong - this is Cadet Corbett again.
STRONG (FILTER)
You have your orders, Corbett. Carry on!
TOM
Aye aye sir.
STRONG (FILTER)
End transmission.
TOM
End transmission.
TOM HANGS UP AND GLANCES AT ERIC AND THEY BOTH TURN TO LOOK AT ASTRO WHO STANDS BY CHART, BITTERLY.
ASTRO
Well - does that tell you? It tells me. I'm on the hook. If I don't
come through on this flight - I can kiss the academy goodbye - and my pal
Eric'll be all ready to step in.
ERIC
Hey now, look, Astro - don't take it out on me. It isn't my fault
- I don't want to see you flunk out.
ASTRO
Maybe not - but it sure won't break your heart, I bet!
ASTRO STORMS TOWARD HATCH AND EXITS.
SOUND: HATCH CLANKS CLOSED
ERIC TURNS TO TOM ANGRILY
ERIC
Honestly, Tom - I feel awful about this -
TOM
Forget it, Eric. As soon as he cools off, he'll understand. Meanwhile,
you'd better ride up here with me.
ERIC
Okay - whatever you think is best.
AS ERIC CROSSES DOWN TO CHAIR, TOM PICKS UP INTERCOM
TOM
Hello, T.J. - check in -
T.J. (FILTER)
Yeah Tom - we get our orders?
TOM
We sure did - and we've got a rough trip ahead of us. So stand by
to raise ship - !
AS TOM STARTS ADJUSTING CONTROLS
DISSOLVE TO:
11. FILM RECEDING EARTH CLIP
DISSOLVE TO:
12. RADAR BRIDGE
OPEN CLOSE ON PRACTICAL SCANNER AND PULL BACK TO SEE T.J.
CHECKING IT. HE THEN TURNS TO INTERCOM:
T.J.
Hello Tom - check in -
TOM (FILTER)
Go ahead, T.J.
T.J.
Just crossing Luna orbit. On direct course to Mars.
TOM (FILTER)
What about the derelict ?
T.J.
It's too soon to spot it yet. But I figure it'll be pretty close
to our course.
TOM (FILTER)
Fine.
T.J.
How's Astro doing?
TOM (FILTER)
Oh - all right, I suppose. He's staying down on the power deck.
It's just as well - until he cools off a little.
T.J.
Cools off - ? Flying with a space buzzard who's waiting to take
over his job? I'd be frying!
TOM (FILTER)
Nobody asked you, T.J. - so just knock off that kind of talk.
T.J.
There's only one thing I'd like to knock off - ! Rattison's block!
And so help me - before this trip is over - I'll do it!!!
T.J. SLAMS DOWN THE INTERCOM ANGRILY AND WE:
DISSOLVE TO:
13. BLACK SET
ROCKETSHIP BLASTING THROUGH SPACE, EXHAUST FLARING
FADE TO:
14. CONTROL DECK
TOM ALONE ON DECK, FLYING SHIP
SOUND: HATCH CLANK OFF
TOM TURNS TO SEE ASTRO ENTER SLOWLY
TOM
Hi, Astro - how's it going?
ASTRO
Oh - routine. We anywhere near that derelict yet?
TOM
Should spot it pretty soon.
ASTRO
So we knock it out - what'll that prove? What'll this whole flight
prove? It won't change my mark on the exam.
TOM
No - but I've got a hunch Captain Strong's on your side, Astro -
he's doing this to help you somehow. You heard what Eric said didn't you?
No other crew pulled this kind of tactical exam.
ASTRO
Well - maybe - Where is Eric anyway?
TOM
Went topside for awhile. And listen, Astro - I wish you'd be fair
about him. He didn't ask for this assignment. He's just following orders.
ASTRO
Yeah - I know - but it just sets my teeth on edge - having a guy
you know is in line for your job - hanging around waiting - like a vulture
-
THROUGH ABOVE, ERIC CLIMBS DOWN FROM RADAR BRIDGE.
ERIC
Sounds like I'm on the pan again.
TOM AND ASTRO TURN TO SEE ERIC STEP OFF THE LADDER AND ACROSS
TOWARD THEM
ERIC
Look, Astro - I know how you feel - but I wish you'd get off this
kick. Once and for all - I'm not trying to take over your spot. You've
got to believe that.
ASTRO PAUSES, LOOKS AT HIM, THEN SMILES AND EXTENDS HIS HAND.
ASTRO
I do, Eric
ERIC (SHAKING HIS HAND)
Good -
ASTRO
I'll tell you right now - I'm not giving up without a fight - but
in case I don't make it - well - I'm glad you're taking over.
ERIC
Thanks. Now just persuade your bantamweight astrogator of that -
and the rest of the flight should be pretty smooth.
SOUND: INTERCOM BUZZ
T.J. (FILTER)
Hello, Tom - check in
TOM
Speak of the devil - (TURNS TO INTERCOM) Go ahead T.J.
T.J. (FILTER)
I've picked up the derelict on my scanner. What now?
TOM
What's the range - ?
T.J. (FILTER)
Five hundred thousand miles - closing fast.
TOM
Okay - stand by
ASTRO
Want me to work topside here with you so you can handle the firing
controls ?
TOM
Not so fast, Astro. I'm not sure we should blast her yet.
ASTRO
But you heard Captain Strong's orders, Tom. He said get rid of it.
TOM
Uh-huh - take appropriate action were his exact words - that doesn't
necessarily mean blast her.
ERIC
What're you driving at, Tom?
TOM
I've been thinking about this all the way out - and the way I see
it, you can get rid of derelict by repairing her too - or towing her away.
ASTRO
But Captain Strong didn't mean that!
TOM
What makes you so sure? Look at it this way. This flight is more
of a test of you than of us - and what better way do you have of passing
then by doing a real bang up engineering job - under emergency conditions?
ASTRO
Well - could be, I suppose. (TO ERIC) What do you think,
Eric?
Look pal - I may be cutting my own throat on this deal but if I
were you - I'd jump at the chance!
T.J. (FILTER)
Hello, Tom - we're closing on that derelict in a hurry. Less than
twenty-five thousand miles. Better start lining up your torpedo approach.
TOM
Well, Astro - ?
ASTRO
It's a deal !
TOM
Good! (INTO INTERCOM) Hello, T.J. - forget about the torpedo
approach. Line up a course that'll bring us right alongside.
T.J. (FILTER)
Alongside - ? Are you space happy?
TOM
Probably - but Astro and I are going to board her first and see
if we can salvage her. Get to work on that heading. (HE SLAMS DOWN INTERCOM) Come on Astro - let's suit up.
ERIC
Just a minute, Tom - I've got a small correction in that last remark.
You're not going on board her with Astro - I am.
TOM
Now wait a minute, Eric - this is a job for the Polaris crew.
ERIC
Astro than you will.
TOM LOOKS AT ASTRO QUESTIONINGLY
ASTRO
He's got something there, Tom.
TOM
Anything you say. Go to it - and thanks, Eric.
ERIC
Forget it - although I must be going spacehappy - trying to help myself out of a real nice berth.
ASTRO
(WALKING TOWARD HATCH WITH ERIC) Don't worry, Eric - if we can pull this thing off - we'll talk Captain Strong into adding a fourth cadet to our unit.
AS THEY EXIT AND
SOUND: HATCH CLANK OFF
TOM TURNS TO INTERCOM
TOM
Hello, T.J. - what's the range now? How soon before we're alongside that derelict?
T.J. (FILTER)
Three minutes - but are you sure you know what you're doing?
TOM
Positive!
T.J. (FILTER)
But what's Captain Strong going to say when he finds out?
TOM
That Astro's passed his exam - I hope! Now get on that scanner. Line us up for a broadside approach. I want to couple on to that derelict close to the 'midships hatch!
T.J. (FILTER)
Tom, old pal, if you want - I'll fly you right into that hatch!
TOM GRINS AND MANIPULATES THE CONTROLS AS WE DISSOLVE TO:
15. BLACK SET
SHOOTING ALONG LENGTH OF SHIP AND OVER NOSE TO ANOTHER BEAT UP ROCKETSHIP
DOLLY IN SLOWLY
FADE TO:
16. OFFICE
ARKWRIGHT ALONE, STANDING BESIDE DESK, READING TAPE AS IT COMES OUT
OF DESK COMMUNICATOR (audiphone)
SOUND: CLATTER OF COMMUNICATOR (BG) THEN DOOR KNOCK
ARKWRIGHT
Come in.
DOOR OPENS AND STRONG ENTERS
STRONG
Captain Strong reporting as ordered sir.
ARKWRIGHT (LOOKING AT TAPE)
Stand easy, Strong - be with you in a minute.
STRONG
Yes sir
ARKWRIGHT CONTINUES LOOKING AT TAPE AS IT UNREELS. THEN, WHEN IT STOPS, HE TEARS IT OFF AND TURNS TO STRONG.
ARKWRIGHT
Strong - you ordered the Polaris crew to destroy that derelict near
spacelane ten, didn't you?
STRONG
That's right it was part of their tactical demonstration we
discussed it, if you remember.
ARKWRIGHT
Yes , yes well contact the Polaris cancel the order.
STRONG
Why, sir ?
ARKWRIGHT (HOLDING UP TAPE)
According to this report from Mars the derelict is drifting right into spacelane ten - it will interfere with traffic the long range space torpedo batteries of Mars are going to blast it.
STRONG (SMILING)
Maybe the Polaris crew will beat them to it, sir.
ARKWRIGHT
Maybe - but I want to make sure it's destroyed. The torpedo batteries will open fire in exactly ten minutes. Order the Polaris out of the area immediately.
STRONG
Aye, aye sir!
ARKWRIGHT
That's all.
STRONG SALUTES, ARKWRIGHT RETURNS IT AND THEN LOOKS OVER TAPE AGAIN,
SCOWLING, AS STRONG EXITS.
DISSOLVE TO:
17. POLARIS CONTROL DECK
TOM ALONE AT CONTROLS, LOOKING OUT OF VIEWPORT
ASTRO (FILTER)
Hello, Tom - check in
TOM
(PICKING UP INTERCOM)
Yeah, Astro - where are you?
ASTRO (FILTER)
On the control deck of the freighter. We can't find any thing wrong here. The trouble must be down on the power deck. We're going down to have a look.
TOM
There's a big hole in the ship forward what about that?
ASTRO (FILTER)
Would've made this crate lose all her oxygen but that's all.
TOM
I don't think you can repair it though.
ASTRO (FILTER)
Won't have to can just seal off that deck.
TOM
Well don't take too long, Astro. If you think you and Eric can repair her fine - if not, and if you think she isn't even worth towing back to earth we'll blast her .
T.J. COMES DOWN LADDER
ASTRO (FILTER)
Okay - let you know as soon as I can. End transmission.
TOM
End transmission. (AS HE HANGS UP HE NOTICES T.J. BESIDES HIM)
Hey - what're you doing down here, T.J.?
T.J.
Thought I'd watch the fun -There's nothing to do topside anyhow.
TOM
No? Did it ever occur to you that some other ship might be trying to raise us - or even Captain Strong.
T.J.
Uh-huh - and did it ever occur to you that if Captain Strong did try to contact us - he might ask us what we're doing?
TOM
So what? We're not breaking orders - exactly.
T.J.
No - we're just bending them a little bit. Well - I don't feel like trying to explain that - so I've just shut down the audioceiver for a little while.
TOM
I don't know, T.J. - seems like we're taking an awful chance.
T.J.
What's the chance? What he doesn't know - won't hurt him - and what we don't know - won't hurt us. Relax!
AS T.J. SLUMPS BACK IN CHAIR
DISSOLVE TO:
18. OFFICE
TIGHT ON CAPTAIN STRONG AS HE CALLS INTO MIKE DESPERATELY
STRONG
Captain Strong to Polaris - check in! Why don't you acknowledge? You're in a target area. In less than five minutes that derelict will be blasted by a salvo of space torpedoes! Check in, Polaris - check in -
check in - !
SLOW FADE TO:
19. KRAFT TELOP FOLLOWED BY COMMERCIAL #2
20: BLACK SET
TWO ROCKETSHIPS COUPLED TOGETHER, DRIFTING IN SPACE.
DISSOLVE TO:
21. POWER DECK - FREIGHTER DIMLY-LIT - OVERALL BATTERED APPEARANCE. STANDARD POWER DECK DRESSING REARRANGED WITH BENDIX FLAT ON DECK. IF POSSIBLE, A COUPLE OF GIRDERS DANCING LOOSELY OR PROPPED AGAINST WALL AT ANGLE. ASTRO, WEARING FULL SPACE GEAR, IS EXAMINING THE EXTERIOR OF THE BENDIX. ERIC, WEARING FULL SPACE GEAR ENTERS, FLASHING SPACE LAMP AROUND.
ERIC
How do the reactors look, Astro? Think you can do anything with them?
ASTRO (STRAIGHTENING UP)
Hard to tell yet. What about the rest of the gear?
ERIC
Pretty beat-up. Most of it's been damaged by fire. But with spit, bailing wire and luck, I think we can make it work.
ASTRO
Good. Now, if I can only repair these reactors -
TOM (FILTER)
Hello - Corbett to Astro - Corbett to Astro - check in -
ASTRO
Tom must be getting anxious. You talk to him, Eric. (BENDS OVER OPEN CENTER HOLE OF REACTOR AGAIN) I've got work to do.
TOM (FILTER)
Corbett to Astro - acknowledge - !
ERIC (ADJUSTING HELMET INTERCOM)
Hello, Tom - this is Eric -
CUT To:
22. CONTROL DECK
TOM TALKING ANXIOUSLY INTO INTERCOM. T.J. LOUNGING IN CHAIR.
TOM
What's going on, Eric? You've been over there an awful long time.
ERIC (FILTER)
We're just checking the power deck now. Be finished in a couple of minutes.
TOM
Well - how does it look?
ERIC (FILTER)
Not too bad. All depends on the condition of the reactors. I'll call you as soon as we know for sure. End transmission.
TOM
End transmission. (HE REPLACES INTERCOM)
T.J.
Well - sounds to me like things are going to work out pretty good.
TOM
Maybe - but we're wasting a lot of time. If we have to blast that wreck, Captain Strong'll want to know why we took so long.
T.J.
Look - don't start worrying about that now - let's take first things first.
TOM
And I still think you should be standing watch on that audioceiver!
T.J. (SHARING HEAD)
Uh-uh - I'm keeping my skirts clean. If I can't hear any orders - I can't break them. And seeing as how Captain Strong'll probably be sore at us anyhow, we might just as well make it worthwhile.
T.J. RELAXES BACK IN CHAIR AS WE:
DISSOLVE TO:
23. OFFICE CAPTAIN STRONG AND COMMANDER ARKWRIGHT STANDING AT STAR CHART. STRONG IS POINTING TO A CERTAIN POSITION.
STRONG
(FADING IN) ...... and at their last position report, the Polaris was here - this side of the Mars Orbit - only a few minutes away from the derelict.
ARKWRIGHT
Then the cadets must be in that area, blast it!
STRONG
Yes - but they haven't answered my calls and they haven't been seen on any of the long range telescanners. The only blip in that area is the one made by the derelict.
ARRWRIGHT
But hang it all, Strong - the ship couldn't have vanished.
STRONG
There's only one possibility, sir - that's why I'd like you to order the torpedo batteries to withhold fire until it can be checked out.
ARRWRIGHT
Well - what is it?
STRONG
That for some reason or other, the Polaris is laying alongside the derelict. At that distance, the two ships would merge - show up as one on the scanners.
ARKWRIGHT
But didn't you order them to destroy the derelict? Why should they go alongside?
STRONG
As I recall, sir - my orders weren't that specific - and the Polaris crew is apt to be - well - over-zealous.
ARKWRIGHT
Yes - that's the word for the Polaris all right. Very well -(TURNS TO DESK) I'll contact the batteries on Mars and postpone -
SOUND: ATTENTION BELL OF TELETYPE AND IT BEGINS TO CLATTER
ARKWRIGHT
Oh - maybe this is information on them now -
ARKWRIGHT CROSSES TO DESK COMMUNICATOR AND STARTS PULLING OUT TARE SLOWLY. STRONG FOLLOWS CLOSELY BEHIND THEM.
ARKWRIGHT
Great Galaxy - !
STRONG
What is it, sir - ?
ARKWRIGHT
We're too late! The torpedo batteries have fired their first salvo!
DISSOLVE TO:
24. POWER DECK
ASTRO WORKING INSIDE BENDIX AS BEFORE. HE STRAIGHTENS UP AND LOOKS AROUND.
ASTRO
Hey Eric - !
ERIC
Yes, Astro ? Finished yet?
ASTRO
Uh-huh. And I think we can do business here - I
ERIC
Good!
ASTRO
Of course, they'll never burn up space, but they'll work. I know I can make them work!
ERIC
That's what we're here to prove.
ASTRO
I'd better let Tom know. (ADJUST HELMET INTERCOM) Hello Tom - this is Astro - check in - I
CUT TO:
25. CONTROL DECK TOM AND T.J. AS BEFORE.
TOM
(INTO INTERCOM) Yes, Astro? How 're you doing? You finished yet?
ASTRO (FILTER)
Yeah - and we can do it, Tom. We can make this old space crate sit up and percolate again.
TOM
(WITH A HAPPY GLANCE AT T.J.) Swell - I
ASTRO (FILTER)
But we can't do the whole job out here. We'll have to tow her in.
TOM
Okay. Stand by a minute - (TURNS TO T.J.) T.J. - get up on the radar bridge. Open up that audioceiver and tell Captain Strong we're changing our flight plan because of emergency conditions.
T.J.
Right. (HE STARTS TOWARD LADDER)
TOM
And listen - dress it up big. Tell him what Astro's going to do - say that this was all his idea -
T.J
Sure thing. By the time I'm through, they'll make Astro president of next year's class. (STARTS UP LADDER)
TOM
(BACK TO INTERCOM) Hello, Astro - !
CUT TO:
26. POWER DECK
ASTRO AND ERIC AS BEFORE
ASTRO
Yeah, Tom - ?
TOM (FILTER)
What do you want to do? Come back aboard the Polaris now?
ASTRO
No. The magnetic coupling lines are secure so why don't you get under way - head back to Earth. Eric and I'll stay here and start working on the ship.
THROUGH LATTER PART OF SPEECH, ASTRO LOOKS QUESTIONINGLY AT ERIC WHO NODS IN AGREEMENT.
TOM (FITTER)
Anything you say. But what about food - and tools?
ASTRO
One of us'll be over to pick up whatever gear we need.
ERIC
And we can worry about foot later.
CUT To:
27. CONTROL DECK TOM AS BEFORE
TOM
Okay fellas - you call the shots on this flight. I'll get under
way now. (FLIPS SWITCH) Hello, T.J. -
T.J. (FILTER) (EXCITED) Tom - ! Tom - ! Check in quick - !
TOM
Yes, T.J. - I was just calling -
CUT TO:
28. RADAR BRIDGE T.J. AT INTERCOM
T.J.
Tom - listen - we're in trouble! A salvo of torpedoes is heading straight for us - ! -
TOM (FILTER)
Torpedoes - !
T.J.
To blast the derelict! They didn't know we were along side. Captain Strong's been trying to raise us and -
TOM (FILTER)
Never mind that now. Where are those fish - how far away?
T.J.
Less than two minutes - I'm tracking them on my scanners now - four of them. Start blasting, Tom - fast - !
TOM (FILTER)
It's no use, T.J. - not with the derelict in tow - and the torpedoes probably have homing warheads -
T.J.
Well - what do you want to do? Just sit here and wait for them to blow us into meteor dust?
CUT TO:
29. CONTROL DECK TOM AS BEFORE
TOM
Not by a long shot! Listen - plot a firing trajectory to intercept those warheads at a range of one hundred miles
T.J. (FILTER)
But what good'll that....
TOM
...stop talking and listen! Plot that trajectory and then set the warheads on our torpedoes to explode automatically at that distance. Got it?
T.J. (FILTER)
Yeah - I got it.
TOM
Okay - hurry up! (FLIPS SWITCH ON INTERCOM) Hello, Astro - Eric - check in -
CUT TO:
30. POWER DECK ASTRO STANDING NEAR BENDIX. ERIC WORKING OVER CONTROL PANEL. AS TOM TALKS, ERIC CROSSES TO ASTRO IN ALRAR
ASTRO
Yeah, Tom - ?
TOM (FILTER)
Listen hard - I don't have much time to talk. We're going to be blasted by space torpedoes in about a minute!
ASTRO
We're what - !!!!!
TOM (FILTER)
Just listen, Astro! I'm going to try to intercept those fish - fire our own at them -
ASTRO
You don't expect to hit them - !
TOM (FILTER)
No - all I hope is the blast will disrupt the homing gear and knock them off course.
ASTRO
Tom - listen - it'll never work. Blast out 've here - !
TOM (FILTER)
I can't. We'd never make it!
ERIC
You might - if you drop the tow - let us go!
TOM (FILTER)
Stop trying to make like heroes - !
ASTRO
Tom - use your head - !
CUT TO:
3l. CONTROL DECK
TOM AS BEFORE. THROUGH SPEECH, T.J. COMES DOWN LADDER
TOM
You're wasting time! Now stand by over there and brace yourselves. This is going to get a little rough.
ASTRO (FILTER)
Tom - wait - !
TOM
End transmission - !
AS HE SLAMS DOWN INTERCOM, T.J. COMES DOWN TO OTHER SEAT.
T.J.
Okay, Tom - warheads are set.
TOM
You have the firing trajectory?
T.J.
Yep - (ADJUSTING SWITCHES ON PANEL) Racking it up now.
TOM
(ALSO ADJUSTING INSTRUMENTS) Okay - how much time do we have?
T.J.
About thirty seconds.
TOM
(SETTLING INTO CHAIR) Okay - stand by number one and two tubes. Fire in salvo.
T.J.
(GRASPING LEVER AND FLIPPING SWITCH) One and two armed and ready.
TOM
(GLANCES AT T.J. AND SMILES)
Nervous, T.J.?
T.J.
(WITH A WEAK LAUGH)
Not a bit. I'm just scared to death.
TOM
Stand by -
T.J.
Range two hundred and fifty miles- (BEAT) Two hundred miles-
TOM
Ready.
T.J.
(GULPING) One-seven-five -
TOM
Fire!
T.J. SLAMS HOME LEVER
SOUND: TWO FAST TORPEDO HISSES - ALMOST AS ONE.
T.J.
Torpedoes away - !
TOM
(STANDING TO LOOK OUT OF VIEWPORT) Keep your fingers crossed, T.J.- !
T.J.
(CROUCHING IN CHAIR, ARMS OVER HIS HEAD, CROSSED, FINGERS CROSSED AND LEGS CROSSED) Man - I got everything crossed
CUT TO:
32. BLACK SET AS SEEN THROUGH VIEWPORT LOGO, HUGE FLAMING EXPLOSION.
(Lycopoium unit)
CUT TO:
33. CONTROL DECK
DECK IS HEAVING AND LURCHING AND CADETS ARE HANGING ON. REFLECTED LIGHT FLARES ON THE . FINALLY IT SUBSIDES SLOWLY AND T.J. DARES TO SIT UP AND TAKE A LOOK
T.J.
Don't - don't tell me we're still in one piece - ?
TOM
What does it look like, T.J.?
T.J.
(FEELS HIMSELF ALL OVER) Arms - legs - head - what do you know -! (SUDDENLY STARTS TO SPRAWL BACK IN CHAIR AS THOUGH IN FAINT)
TOM
(GRABBING HIM QUICKLY) Hey - none of that, T.J. - you can faint later. Right now, you call Captain Strong and tell him we're okay.
T.J.
Captain Strong - ? (WEAKLY) I think I'd prefer facing those torpedoes again -
DISSOLVE TO:
34. OFFICE
STRONG AND ARKWRIGHT STRONG TALKING INTO COMMUNICATOR
STRONG
(FADING IN)..... and do you mean to say that your torpedoes blasted the salvo from the batteries - ?
T.J. (FILTER)
Not exactly, sir. Just threw them off course ... and wrecked the homing devices in the warheads. They missed us.
STRONG AND ARKWRIGHT GLANCE AT EACH OTHER AMAZED.
STRONG
(BACK INTO INTERCOM) This is the most incredible thing I've ever heard of.
T.J. (FILTER)
It sure is, sir - I still can't believe it myself.
STRONG (ANGRILY)
You'll believe it when you get back to the Academy, Thistle. You can think about it while you're working off fifty hours of scrub duty for pulling an idiotic stunt like this!
T.J. (FILTER)
Uhh - yes sir - well - just a minute, sir -Tom would like to talk to you.
TOM (FILTER)
Hello, Captain Strong - this is Cadet Corbett. I'd like to explain-
STRONG
I'm not interested in explanations, Corbett! You disobeyed orders! I told you to get rid of that derelict - not salvage her!
TOM (FILTER)
Sir - if you don't mind my saying so - your orders weren't that explicit. You just told us to take appropriate action - and as commander on this flight, I felt that in salvaging the derelict - I would be getting rid of it -
THROUGH SPEECH, STRONG BEGINS TO LOOK UNCOMFORTABLE. HE GLANCES AT ARKWRIGHT WHO STARS AT HIM ACCUSINGLY.
STRONG
Err - well
TOM (FILTER)
And besides - I felt we were saving a valuable piece of property,sir.
STRONG (CLEARS THROAT)
Er - yes - of course. Well - perhaps I was a little hasty, Corbett. You can forget about the disciplinary action.
TOM (FILTER)
Thank you, sir. And what about Astro? He's working on that ship now. If he has her in half-way decent running order by the time we get back - do you think that will help his grade, sir?
STRONG GLANCES AT ARKWRIGHT WHO SMILES AND NODS
STRONG (INTO INTERCOM)
Yes, Corbett - I'm sure it will.
CUT TO:
35. CONTROL DECK
SHOOT THROUGH VIEWPORT TO SEE TOM, ASTRO AND T.J. GROUPED TOGETHER. TOM ON INTERCOM
TOM
Thank you, sir - then you can count on the Polaris Unit being back at Space Academy next year.
HE HANGS UP INTERCOM, WINKS AT ASTRO AND T.J. AND THEN TURNS TO CAMERA -
TOM
And thanks to all you spacemen out there for being with is this year. You've been a swell gang and it's been great having you with us on all our flights. We've appreciated all your letters - and those of you who haven't received any answers yet - don't worry - we'll spend most of our vacation catching up with you. Oh - and keep writing - it's the best way to make sure that we can come back again for another term. Well so long for now - hope to see you again next year.
T.J
(STEPPING FORWARD, QUICKLY)
Yeah - I got some stunts that'll knock your eye out - !
TOM AND ASTRO BOTH CLAMP THEIR HANDS OVER T.J.'S MOUTH AND HOLD HIM DOWN,
TOM (INTO CAMERA)
And - spacemen's luck to you all!
FADE OUT
CLOSING
KRAFT MINIATURE SPACEPORT
ANNOUNCER (V O.)
Every Saturday morning the makers of KRAFT Caramels take you to the world beyond tomorrow. Don't forget to be with us for another exciting adventure of ...
SUPER TELOP #1 (Tom Corbett, Space Cadet)
ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
... Tom Corbett, Space Cadet - !
TAKE OUT TELOP #1
SUPER TELOP #2 (Thomas - Markim - Grimes)
ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
starring Frankie Thomas and featuring Al Markim and Jack Grimes.
TAKE OUT TELOP #2
SUPER TELOP #3 ( & T.O. TELOP #3
SUPER TELOP #4 (directed by Ralph Ward) & T.O. TELOP 14
SUPER TELOP #5 (Prod'd & Written by Aley) & T.O. TELOP
#5
SUPER TELOP #6 (Maron-Jewett-Blunk) & T.O. TELOP 16
SUPER TELOP #7 (Schmidt-Davidson-Smith) & T.O. TELOP 17
SUPER TELOP #8 (Sound & Spec. Effects) & T.O. TELOP #8
DISSOLVE TO:
TELOP #9 (A Rockhill Production)
ANNOUNCER (V.O.) -
This has been a Rockhill Production
DISSOLVE TO:
TELOP #10 Kraft Caramels - with starfield)
ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
presented by Kraft Caramels.
FADE OUT.
