Quick Summary
The Russian Thing – In the wake of the Soviet Union’s collapse, US astronauts are welcomed aboard Russia’s Mir space station, only to see a series of onboard disasters jeopardise the fragile new partnership between former Cold War foes.
About This Program
Programme Overview
The Russian Thing is a stand‑alone episode broadcast on BBC Two England that dramatizes a pivotal moment in post‑Cold War history. As the Soviet Union collapses, the newly formed Russian state opens its iconic space station, Mir, to a team of United States astronauts. The episode explores the fragile partnership that emerges between former adversaries, set against the stark, high‑tech environment of orbital spaceflight.
Setting and Premise
Against the dramatic backdrop of the early 1990s, the narrative follows the arrival of the US crew aboard Mir, a symbol of Soviet scientific achievement now under Russian control. The episode captures the tension of a historic handshake in orbit, where political goodwill is tested by the practical realities of living and working in a confined, weightless laboratory. Viewers are drawn into the day‑to‑day routines of the astronauts and cosmonauts as they navigate cultural differences and the lingering shadows of rivalry.
Conflict and Drama
Just as cooperation seems to take hold, a series of onboard disasters threatens to unravel the fragile alliance. Technical failures, unexpected emergencies, and the ever‑present danger of space travel create a cascade of challenges that force both sides to confront their mistrust and rely on each other's expertise. The episode skillfully balances the awe of space exploration with the human drama of survival, highlighting how shared peril can both strain and strengthen diplomatic bonds.
Why Watch
For UK audiences, The Russian Thing offers a rare glimpse into a turning point where geopolitical change meets scientific ambition. The episode blends historical context with high‑stakes storytelling, making it appealing to fans of drama, documentary‑style realism, and space‑related entertainment. Its focus on international collaboration, set within the iconic Mir station, provides both educational insight and gripping narrative tension, ensuring a memorable viewing experience for anyone interested in the intersection of politics and exploration.
Once Upon a Time in Space broadcasts on BBC Two HD at 11:30pm, Thursday, 6 November 2025. (Subtitles, repeat)