Month: December 1963

.The TARDIS arrives on the distant planet Skaro, which seems at first to be uninhabited, except for fossilized animals. When the Doctor, Susan, Ian and Barbara discover a city constructed by an advanced civilization, there is a difference of opinion on whether or not to explore it. But the Doctor deems it necessary due to a shortage of mercury in the TARDIS’ fluid link system. After wandering aimlessly in the city for a while, the travelers discover two horrifying things – their growing fatigue is a sign of radiation sickness from Skaro’s toxic environment, and there are still living creatures inhabiting Skaro. One race, the pacifist humanoid Thals, try to maintain their primitive culture in the face of adversity. The other race, metallic monstrosities known as the Daleks, intend to wipe the Thals out – along with the Doctor and his companions, unless they assist the Daleks in their genocidal plan.

written by Terry Nation
directed by Christopher Barry and Richard Martin
music by Tristram Cary

Guest Cast: Robert Jewell, Kevin Manser, Michael Summerton, Gerald Taylor, Peter Murphy (Daleks), Peter Hawkins, David Graham (Dalek voices), John Lee (Alydon), Philip Bond (Ganatus), Virginia Wetherell (Dyoni), Alan Wheatly (Temmosus), Gerald Curtis (Elyon), Jonathan Crane (Kristas), Marcus Hammond (Antodus)

Broadcast from December 21, 1963 through February 1, 1964

LogBook entry & review by Earl Green