There’s a release due out which should have sci-fi fans fizzing at the nostrils! Basically, set for release is Gerry Anderson’s Fireball XL5 Special Edition (U). It’s available to buy on DVD on 29th June (retailing at £59.99) and includes 6 discs in one set, including all 39 episodes from the iconic series, complete and uncut plus exclusive extras including a 60-page book and new documentary. Sounds great doesn’t it? If you don’t know much about the show, read over for some clips and the low down.

The show is set in the years is 2062-2063 and the peace of the universe is maintained by World Space Patrol’s finest rocket ship, the eponymous Fireball XL5. The memorable crew comprises of the glamorous doctor Venus, middle-aged navigator and engineer Professor Matthew Matic and Zodiac’s co-pilot Robert the Robot, whose fantastic characteristic being that he is transparent, and bears the voice of creator Jerry Anderson himself. This brave, gallant crew is led by the heroic Colonel Steve Zodiac. They explore various exotic planets and other life forms and protect the innocent from sinister intergalactic villains such as Mr. and Mrs. Space Spy.

Since the programme’s very first transmission on October 28th 1962, young audiences – not to mention a good number of adults – all over the world were held enthralled by the adventures of Steve Zodiac and his crew. Gerry Anderson’s Supermarionation marionettes were first introduced in Four Feather Falls (1960), and since then a wondrous tradition in entertainment was born. The marionettes were used again and again immensely popular children’s shows such as Supercar and Thunderbirds. This release will appeal to all who are fans and is also set to convert a good number of new viewers, who have yet to experience its magic.

Here’s a clip of the show…