The Golden Age of comic books introduced readers to a world of superheroes, detectives, and Westerns, but one series that truly soared among the stars was Planet Comics. Published by Fiction House from 1940 to 1953, Planet Comics was a trailblazer in the realm of science fiction, captivating readers with its vivid artwork, daring space adventurers, and far-flung intergalactic escapades. Let’s dive into the fascinating history of this iconic comic book series and explore why it remains a beloved treasure among collectors and fans.
The Birth of a Sci-Fi Icon
Planet Comics made its debut in January 1940 as a spin-off of Fiction House’s popular pulp magazine, Planet Stories. From the start, it was clear that this wasn’t just another comic book—it was a bold leap into the cosmos. Each issue promised thrilling adventures on strange planets, featuring a rotating cast of characters who battled alien menaces, discovered lost civilisations, and piloted sleek rocket ships through the stars.
The series was unique for its time, blending the bold, colourful artwork of Golden Age comics with the fantastical elements of pulp science fiction. It catered to readers’ growing fascination with space exploration, offering a glimpse of a future where humans could travel to other worlds and engage in daring adventures.
The Heroes of the Stars
Planet Comics featured a variety of characters and serialised stories that kept readers hooked issue after issue. Some of the most notable heroes included:
Flint Baker, Space Ranger
One of the earliest and most prominent characters in Planet Comics, Flint Baker was a classic square-jawed hero who battled space pirates, evil dictators, and alien monsters. His adventures were filled with thrilling space battles and daring rescues.
Mysta of the Moon
Introduced in issue #35, Mysta was one of the first female superheroes in comics, predating Wonder Woman. A brilliant scientist with psychic powers, Mysta protected the solar system from interstellar threats, often facing off against mad scientists and rogue robots.
Auro, Lord of Jupiter
Auro, a jungle hero raised by giant eagles on Jupiter, blended the exotic appeal of Tarzan with the high-tech setting of outer space. He fought mutant beasts and sinister invaders in a wild, untamed world.
These characters, among others, embodied the spirit of adventure and the boundless possibilities of science fiction. They were often depicted in dramatic, action-packed scenes with lush, detailed backgrounds of alien worlds, making Planet Comics a visual feast for readers.
Art and Storytelling: A Visual Extravaganza
One of the most distinctive features of Planet Comics was its art. The series boasted some of the most talented artists of the era, including Murphy Anderson, Matt Baker, and George Tuska, whose dynamic illustrations brought the wild stories to life. The artwork was bold and vibrant, with elaborate depictions of alien landscapes, futuristic technology, and outlandish creatures that sparked the imagination.
Matt Baker (Left), Murphy Anderson (Middle), George Tuska (Right)
The stories, though often formulaic, were filled with the kinds of pulp tropes that delighted readers—evil empires, brave rebels, giant monsters, and damsels in distress (often scantily clad, which was a hallmark of the series). While the storytelling reflected the conventions of its time, it also tapped into the sense of wonder and optimism about the future that defined mid-20th-century science fiction.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Despite being one of the most popular sci-fi comics of its time, Planet Comics eventually ended its run in 1953, a victim of changing tastes and the decline of pulp-style storytelling. The rise of superhero comics and increasing censorship pressures from the Comics Code Authority also contributed to its demise.
However, the influence of Planet Comics is still felt today. The series helped lay the groundwork for the space opera genre in comics, influencing later works such as Flash Gordon, Star Wars, and other sci-fi franchises. Its imaginative storytelling and striking art continue to inspire modern creators, and the original issues are highly sought after by collectors for their historical significance and nostalgic charm.
Why Planet Comics Still Matters
For fans of vintage comics and science fiction, Planet Comics remains a symbol of an era when the future seemed bright and limitless. It captured the dreams and anxieties of a world on the brink of the Space Age, offering escapist fantasies that allowed readers to journey beyond the stars. Today, revisiting these old comics provides a fascinating glimpse into the past—both of the medium itself and the cultural imagination of the time.
Whether you’re a seasoned comic book collector or just a fan of retro sci-fi, Planet Comics is a series worth exploring. Its colourful pages are a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring allure of the unknown. So strap on your rocket pack, prepare for launch, and let Planet Comics take you on an adventure like no other!
All 20 volumes of Planet Comics are available now! Collect them all!
A pen and ink drawing of Futura, drawn by Gray Morrow, has been in my collection for over 20 years. That drawing was what piqued my curiosity about the character and why I did research as to where she originated. To keep a long story short, it culminated in my discovery of PS Artbooks and my having purchased over the years the complete wonderful 20 volume reprint series. Maybe one day, I'll start looking for the originals.