The Gun on Ice Planet Zero, Part I

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Overview

Overview

Summary

Herded into a confined area of space, the fleet must pass within close range of a lethal Cylon pulsar cannon—unless an expedition from the Galactica can assault the ice-bound fortress housing the weapon. Apollo, Starbuck, and Boomer lead a team of cut-throat demolitions and cold-weather experts (and the stowaway Boxey). Along they way, they encounter the misguided human scientist who originally built the weapon, as well as his legions of clones.

Questions

Why are there prisoners and a prison barge in the fleet? While it is possible they could have been on a ship already in transit at the time of the attack this is never explained.

Analysis

Notes

It seems likely that the episode Bastille Day in the reimagined series was partially inspired by elements of this episode. In both episodes, a group of criminals was conscripted from a prison ship to work on the icy surface of a hostile planet. A notable difference between the two episode lies in how the workers were chosen. While the workers in Bastille Day were chosen in part for their expendability, the conscripts in "The Gun on Ice Planet Zero" were chosen for their expertise in harsh environments and in demolition work.

Noteworthy Dialogue

Thane: I work with breathing gear. Rare gases, chemical blends. I can take you through land, air, fire and water.
Starbuck: Says here you're in for murder.
Thane: Hmm. That too.

Official Statements

Statistics

Guest Stars

Roy Thinnes as Croft
James Olson as Thane
Christine Belford as Leda
Richard Lynch as Wolfe
Denny Miller as Ser 5-9
Britt Ekland as Tenna

Writing & Direction

Written by Michael Sloan, Donald Bellisario & Glen Larson
Story by John Ireland, Jr.
Directed by Alan Levi

Production Notes

Season 1 (1978/1979)
Production Number: X.X
Airdate Order: 5 (of 21)

First Run Air Dates & Releases

UK Airdate: Date
US Airdate: October 22, 1978
DVD Release: December 28, 2004