Mission: Impossible (1988) s02e07 Episode Script
Target Earth
CONTROLLER [ over P.
A.
.]
: Eurospace Consortium, 15 April.
Recording: Test series Delta.
Five minutes and counting.
Ever ride the moon bus? Very good.
CONTROLLER: Control monitors copy.
Four minutes and counting.
Ground zone clear.
Goodbye, cheri.
Sorry I can't stay.
You were good.
The problem is, you were too good.
Where is Bergerac? I have no idea.
The lead pilot? He's going to miss this! Oh, I don't think so.
CONTROLLER: Nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two Ignition.
[ screaming .]
TECHNICIAN: All systems go.
Colleagues, the first private manned space flight in history Alina.
Congratulations.
has tested perfectly.
We're near ready to launch.
Yes, we are.
[ theme music playing .]
[ bell dinging .]
LIBRARIAN: The library is now closed.
Robert Louis Stevenson, Kidnapped.
Been a favorite of mine since I was a boy.
I think you share that with most boys, from nine to 90.
Well, there aren't many heroes like Alan Breck Stewart.
What else do you recommend? If you're a Stevenson fan, we have The Master of Ballantrae on the shelves.
You'll find it there.
MALE VOICE: Good morning, Jim.
We believe that the disappearance of a man might have compromised the security of the entire world.
He was to command Frontier One, owned and operated by the Eurospace Consortium, a multi-billion-dollar company.
Officially, Bergerac is listed as missing, but we think he might have met with foul play.
Eurospace have leased a piece of Australian outback, built a private base and they're planning to launch very shortly.
The Frontier One is designed for using a super-laser in space, clearing cosmic debris, helping build a new space lab, test-drilling mineral bodies, constructing an orbiting chemical lab.
It could be the future of mankind in space.
But in the wrong hands, it could be the vehicle to a new dimension in terror.
Your mission, Jim, should you choose to accept it, is to make sure that Frontier One is not being used in a terrorist plot to threaten targets on Earth from space.
As always, should you or any member of your IM Force be caught or killed, the Secretary will disavow any knowledge of your actions.
This disc will self-destruct in five seconds.
Good luck, Jim.
NICHOLAS: All the different nationalities.
It certainly looks like the United Nations.
Well, that's the way Eurospace is, as a private company.
Let me tell you, their technology is top-notch, and so are their people.
How did Eurospace get them? Money top salaries, hazard pay, bonuses.
Plus a shot at immortality.
Well, we're gonna join up.
We're halfway there already.
Dr.
Lloyd Bell, distinguished Canadian biologist.
He looks good.
How long has he been there? Three weeks.
The man with him is Matthew Rhine.
He's the new commander of Frontier One.
His background is clean.
Sure.
But he's in command because Bergerac disappeared.
Well, we're going to give him a rival pilot in Judith Rand.
If there is a terrorist plot, this should force the issue.
Well, I've got to hand it to her.
How's she doing? Doing fine so far.
She was hired as Dr.
Judith Rand, PhD, with a NASA background which we invented including the fact that she's a pilot.
- And if they check - If they check, "Judith Rand" is in NASA files.
Now, she's been going head-to-head with Rhine in a series of tests, with Grant backing her up through this receiver.
He can feed her the technical data she needs to outperform Rhine in the tests you will be giving.
- As? - As Dr.
Peter England, MD, PhD, specialist in pilot response analysis.
Hired to conduct the final selection process.
Yes.
Max, you're going in as technical safety supervisor.
Your predecessor won a free vacation trip.
Ought to be landing in Hawaii right about now.
Yeah, got it.
I go in as Dr.
Andrew Lyman, NASA executive, observing the first flight of Frontier One.
This flight has got to be clean.
Has to be a success.
There's enough technology up there to create a nightmare for all of us on this planet.
Dr.
England's just arrived.
Thank you.
Uh, take care of this.
We are most happy to have you join us, Dr.
England.
- Welcome.
- Thank you.
You're Matthew Rhine, Command Pilot.
Yeah.
We haven't finished the tests yet.
I'm Dr.
Judith Rand.
Oh, yes, laser expert.
And lead pilot candidate.
I'd like to see the tests you're planning on.
Yes, well I can show you prototypes.
Good.
I like to be on top of things.
NICHOLAS: Now, this next run of tests is designed to simulate emergencies they could encounter.
We're testing for quick, accurate pilot responses.
We must determine the best pilot commander as quickly as possible.
Oh, don't bother, I'm all right.
Uh, Captain Rhine? All of us are betting you win today.
But, uh it's only a test.
Well, that's not the way I heard it.
I heard it's for all the marbles.
Anyway, good luck.
Testing commences as soon as they're in the cabin.
Captain Rhine.
Dr.
Rand.
The data grids will appear on the inside of your visors.
Put your helmets on.
Shannon? You read me? SHANNON: Ready.
Lower your visors now.
Ten seconds to commencement of test.
Ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one commence.
[ quietly .]
: All right, Shannon.
Reduce thrust R-three.
GRANT: Exactly eight percent.
Perfect score, Dr.
Rand.
Of course.
Don't needle him too much, Shannon.
We are now out of the ionosphere, adjusting for preliminary orbit.
NICHOLAS: Space debris.
You have ten seconds to maneuver to safety.
Now! Ten, nine, eight Lateral thrust, .
29 g.
Trim jet four.
One-second burst now.
SHANNON: Eight seconds.
She's remarkable! And you did well, Matthew.
Well, I take it that means we have a new pilot.
The company rule is very clear.
Command must be given to the best performer.
Congratulations.
Thanks.
What's that? We're taking off.
Well, can't you do something? No, way.
We have main engine start.
Stay in your seat, Doctor! Rhine! GRANT: Jim, get her! Alina she's at the launch control.
You're wasting your time.
They've got an override program in the system.
Our controls are useless! Rhine, you can't risk a liftoff.
NICHOLAS: We haven't finished the check-down! RHINE: I ran all the data yesterday.
She's ready.
Relax I'm committing a piece of history, not suicide.
Rhine, you can't make it without a backup team down here.
[ laughs .]
I'll struggle.
Okay, people, a fast chorus of "Bye, Bye, Birdie.
" PHELPS: He's going into orbit.
SOVOLEV: He has complete control of the ship.
TECHNICIAN: Hey! What is going on here? Who are you people? ALINA: This base is now under the control of the liberation forces of General Robard.
Welcome, sir.
You betrayed us! TECHNICIAN: Hey! Please don't TECHNICIAN 2: Leave us alone! This is insane! Without backup I've got all the backup I need.
Welcome to Eurospace Base, General Robard.
Are you in full control? RHINE: I am.
SHANNON: Who is that? That woman was to be killed.
RHINE: Uh, it's okay.
Alina decided I could use a laser expert.
Very well.
Proceed with the mission.
What do you want from us? Quiet.
Dr.
Andrew Lyman, NASA.
Correct? Drs.
England and Dr.
Bell.
Dr.
Bell.
That's right.
An educated man of color should not allow himself to be used.
You, what is your function? Technical safety.
Then you will continue that role.
Dr.
Sovolev? ALINA: Hmm.
ROBARD: Mm.
The force I represent is now in command of this base.
What force is that? [ groans .]
You are all required to support Dr.
Rhine in every capacity.
Disobedience will be punished.
Saboteurs will be executed.
You performed your duties in eliminating Bergerac, but you failed to kill Judith Rand.
Dr.
Rhine was then forced to launch without full preparation.
It seemed more efficient to make use of her.
And the liftoff was successful.
But you made a vital decision without consulting me.
[ screams .]
As I said, disobedience will be punished.
General Robard Sir I run a constant bio-check on the crew, make sure that they stay healthy.
You will continue to do so, Dr.
Bell, with your personnel.
You will report to me regularly here.
Yes, sir.
What mission was he talking about? I'll show you in just one moment.
Come on down here.
You're heating up the laser.
Yep.
Target is dead ahead.
That's a communications satellite.
It was.
[ laughing .]
What in hell was that? Get me the President.
Half of Europe's out! I want all the data what happened, how, and who, by damn, did it? RHINE: That should've got everybody's attention, General.
I'm ready for the satellite whenever you are.
Wait for my command.
You're going to blow another communications satellite why? Oh, not destroy it.
We're gonna use it to patch into the TV news.
[ chuckling .]
Breaking News has just received a fresh update from the White House on the assault in space.
The White House has confirmed that the attack was not I repeat not made by Soviet weaponry.
And tracking stations report that the attack was made from a spacecraft of some kind.
Officials are positive that It's crazy.
Why destroy a communication satellite? NEWSCASTER: To remain calm, as there is no indication Well, to get a mule's attention, the first thing you do is hit him over the head with a club.
NEWSCASTER: There has been no identification of the mystery spacecraft Now! nor any clue as to who is manning it You're right.
Rhine's patching old Stone-face out there to a satellite channel.
He's taking over the TV news.
All I know is our relay went crazy.
ROBARD: Attention Wait wait I think we're getting something ROBARD: Your attention.
I'm Robard.
I'm in command of the spacecraft Liberation, formerly named Frontier One.
Satellites of the United States and the Soviet Union are now under our guns.
Get on to the CIA.
I want an I.
D.
On him.
- Personal profile, sir? - Voice analysis everything, damn it! - Yes, sir.
- Right away, sir.
ROBARD: We ask only this, that the United States give us command of one surveillance satellite to help us maintain peace.
We ask for the computer codes that unlock and control this satellite.
We pledge that we will never use its military capability against the United States, but only to protect our national borders and the rights of our own people.
If the United States does not agree, we will destroy every American satellite in space.
So, be warned.
You have three hours to agree.
Three hours.
That military surveillance satellite should come within our range in the next, uh, half hour.
Contact me then.
Why don't you get through to Shannon.
Shannon, do you read me? I read you.
I mean you'd risk burning a U.
S.
Military satellite? Yep, just like the god of thunder, perfect lightning bolts in space.
Shannon, you have to stop Ryan.
Can you sabotage the ship's laser? I understand what you're saying.
But the risk are you doing it for money? Not the money power.
[ whispers .]
: Jim here, listen.
I think I found something.
Laser control.
Electronic linkages were never fully checked out.
That was supposed to happen just before the scheduled takeoff.
You mean Shannon could put stress on the laser.
There should be a program testing them to their limit.
Dr.
Lyman come with me.
[ whispers .]
: Yeah.
Shannon.
The laser control gear is vulnerable.
I've accessed a program to push it over the edge.
You got it? I better run some tests.
Hands off.
You might need to recalibrate it before using it again.
It works just fine.
You've seen the proof of that.
[ sighs .]
Nice try, Shannon.
Keep at it.
Send me a signal if you can talk him around.
Use that word"recalibrate.
" I'll know you're ready.
[ beeping quietly .]
Max, you've tapped us into that security camera.
Right.
ROBARD: Dr.
Sovolev is seriously wounded.
He cannot function.
Time for his portrait.
You are the senior official on this base, so I will hold you responsible for the work.
PHELPS: Actually, I'm only an observer.
I can have you shot and speak to the next senior man.
PHELPS: I'll be happy to cooperate.
How's that? Good.
All of you in mission control you must support our effort fully.
Is that clear? Oh, very clear.
But our people have to be able to run their technical and safety checks.
What? There's radioactive material on this base.
We have to run constant checks.
Do what is necessary.
You will be completely responsible for our safety.
I understand.
There's a conduit channel on the floor near Robard's chair, with ventilation slots.
MAX: I think there could be something very dangerous in there.
Good thinking.
Robards has a weak spot.
He's a chain-smoker.
We'll use that.
Have you got enough for a mask of Robard? Yes.
Were you able to find the program for Shannon to use? Just waiting for her signal.
Here comes our target now.
The nuclear power source on board great.
Oh, it won't blow.
It'll just melt like a candle.
Only if the laser's aimed perfectly.
It will be.
Hmm.
After ignoring standard operating procedures? Like when? When you fired it last.
My training says that you always check the targeting sensors before using it again.
Especially when you use it up to full power.
Let me run the tests.
Make it quick.
Confirm Stage Red.
Stand by to launch conventional missiles.
But against 14 million in New York, ten million in Moscow, three-and-one-half million in Sydney The Australian government have agreed to a non-nuclear strike.
We'll try our damnedest to get out of this peacefully.
But, if not we'll wipe out the base.
It's okay for power.
Now, I'll recalibrate the aiming sensors.
Okay.
Shannon here's the high-stress program that may overload the control linkages.
Run this sequence.
Fifty.
Thirty two nineteen - sixteen - Grant We've got interference.
It'll just take a moment or so to verify.
What's going on here? A little problem with the computer.
Better check for radiation.
Yes, that would explain the interference.
[ clicking .]
What's that? Got a hot spot, Dr.
Lyman.
- Mark it.
- Right.
Somebody got careless.
Tell your men not to go near anything with that mark on it.
It could be highly dangerous.
Yes, I will.
Get back to Shannon fast.
Shannon, you read me? Yes.
Fine.
Get that laser operational.
All right.
Here's the rest of the numbers: Nine, thirty-eight Something's funny here.
Cut the power.
The problem's physical.
These controls won't shift it.
Well, you're the laser expert.
You'll just have to go out there and free it up.
What? A spacewalk? But it's Judith Rand she's meant to be fully trained for it.
Well, she's gutsy enough, if we can talk her through it.
She'll have to fix the laser.
Then we have to get to Robard before she gets it working.
Max is in position.
Are you ready, Nicholas? Yes.
Then we gotta go.
You You! What are you doing? Radiation check.
Sir.
Dr.
Lyman explained.
There is much radioactive material used.
There could be danger from it.
If I find this is only a ploy to disturb my men I will have you shot.
General Robard's going to wish he quit smoking years ago.
Okay.
Do your stuff or you're dead.
Understand? Shannon, you read me? I'm ready.
[ airlock latch clicks, air hisses .]
Just a walk in the park, baby.
My God it's beautiful.
Are you okay? I'm scared.
Get moving.
Well, you have every right to be scared.
GRANT: We'll talk you through it.
Remember, you're tethered to that ship.
Nothing can go wrong.
Yeah, right.
I'm okay.
Hang in there and take it slowly.
We have a plan working.
Yeah.
Spaceship Frontier One Frontier One, this is General Josiah Ransom, United States Air Force.
Respond.
I repeat We've picked up a satellite-bounce transmission - from the Pentagon.
- Nail it down.
RANSOM: This communication is of the utmost urgency.
PHELPS: Can you punch through to them? - GRANT: Maybe.
- Acknowledge, Frontier One.
Take a few seconds.
I assume you're hearing me, so listen carefully.
I'll make it simple.
I speak for the President of the United States, the General Secretary of the Soviet Union and the Prime Minister of Australia.
We will not be held hostage or comply with your demands.
Be warned.
In precisely one hour, we are prepared to eliminate the Eurospace Base with our weaponry.
Innocent people will die, we know that.
But your terrorists also will die.
And you will be abandoned in space.
You have one hour to respond.
That's all.
ROBARD: You go now.
No one leaves the building.
I repeat, no one leaves the building.
They're going to wipe out this base.
We have 59 minutes.
NORAD's on red alert.
I can't get through direct.
Every channel's locked up.
We'll have to try to relay through Frontier One.
It's the only way.
And only Shannon can do that.
And, first, we have to get to Robard.
GRANT [ over radio .]
: Shannon, how you doing? Remember, Rhine can hear everything you say.
So far, so good.
Okay.
I'm going to tell you what to do to fix the laser, while we take Robard out of the play.
GRANT: Look down the right-hand side of the barrel mounting.
You'll find a recessed keying hole.
Got it? I think I've found the problem.
Now, in your kit, you'll find a tool that fits a small hexagonal nut.
Inside the keying hole, beneath the laser wand it's a tension control.
I see the trouble.
Okay, you'll have to ease it off so that the laser is free to turn.
I'm freeing the tension control.
Once you've done that, you'll have to tighten the lock nut.
If it's not tight, the tension control will slacken right off.
Sorry, but, we're gonna have to leave you to it.
We will demolish another satellite, Dr.
Rhine.
Immediately.
RHINE: Uh, the laser needs work.
It may take a while.
You failed to tell me, Dr.
Rhine.
I've sent Dr.
Rand out to take care of it.
My laser expert? She doesn't get back inside till the job's done.
Inform me at once.
- What is that? - It's a burst pipe.
[ Geiger counter clicking rapidly .]
It's radioactive steam get out of there.
Get out! Now! Come on! Bring him in here.
PHELPS: General Everyone else, keep clear.
When I'm covered with poison I need a cigarette.
Can I have a cigarette? GRANT: Give the general a cigarette, please.
Let me have them.
You stay here, for your own safety.
Look, you were pretty close to that spill.
- Let me check you out.
- Cigarette, now! Cigarette, please.
MAX: He's fine.
Come on, wait down here.
[ keyboarding .]
Shannon, Robard is out.
Nicholas is in.
How you doing? Now, I'll tighten the lock nut.
Yeah, how're you doing with the voice? I've heard it enough.
[ clicking .]
All clear.
General! Shall we evacuate the base, General? The American missiles are about to I'll deal with it.
Assemble all of our people here.
Now.
I want to address them personally.
It's done! I've unjammed the laser! Good girl.
Now, we gotta get you back inside.
Congratulations, Dr.
Rand.
You just saved your own life.
Come on in out of the cold.
I'm snagged! You'll have to unhitch your tether.
Hold on to the laser.
Shannon if you got no options, just take it nice and slow.
Just like undoing a seatbelt.
Aah! Oh, my God! Bye, Dr.
Rand.
[ gasps .]
Help! Help me! Shannon! Help me Oh! I can't stop! Jim! Grant! Help Help I'm drifting.
I'm drifting away from the ship into space! Keep calm.
Tell me what sort of equipment you have.
And don't worry about Rhine hearing you.
EVA communication was broken when you went off the tether.
I've got tools.
And-and a half hour's worth of air.
All right, listen the air supply can be used as a jet.
Try to reach the purge valve.
I understand.
L-I'm trying to get there.
L-I can't feel much.
I'm trying.
Condition Red.
RHINE: I'm ready to take the satellite out now.
Not yet time.
Wait.
That's an order.
Where is Dr.
Rand? She went outside and, uh she never came back.
I see.
The general has new orders.
There is a possibility of an American missile attack.
However, this base has an impregnable bunker.
Troops only; go with this man to take shelter.
All other base personnel shall remain at their stations.
Do not move.
I've got about ten minutes worth of air in my suit so here goes.
It works.
Jim! Grant! It works! SOLIDER: All the way in the back.
Come on, everybody.
This place isn't deep enough to withstand a missile attack.
[ grunts .]
GUARD: Hey! What? Wait a minute! Get the door! [ muffled .]
: -Open it! - Open the door! Open the door! [ muffled shouting .]
I made it.
Now, we just have to deal with Rhine.
Don't worry, Jim.
He's mine.
Yes, sir, Mr.
President.
We'll give them every second we can.
But does the decision still stand? Yes, sir.
[ echoing over P.
A.
.]
: Continue with Condition Red.
Five minutes to missile launch.
GRANT: NORAD's still on red alert.
PHELPS: Everything depends on Shannon.
[ Iow, indistinct radio communication .]
[ hatch clanks shut .]
[ latch clicks open .]
[ air hissing, alarm blaring .]
[ screaming .]
Jim Grant I got him.
We never doubted you would.
Jim, we got less than two minutes.
Shannon, can you put these code coordinates through the ship's system via your satellite link we have no other way to reach NORAD.
to missile launch.
SHANNON: This is Frontier One in space, calling General Joshua Ransom urgent! Jim, you're patched in.
General, I'm calling from Eurospace Base.
My government cryptonym is U.
S.
[ over P.
A.
.]
: Alpha seven-one-six Charlie.
Are you a prisoner of the terrorists? Negative.
The terrorists are safely out of action.
Cancel the missile strike.
[ echoing over P.
A.
.]
: Ransom, Command HQ.
Cancel Operation Erase! Repeat: Cancel! Thank you.
How the hell did you get there? I'm sorry, General, we seem to be losing our connection.
[ coughing .]
You know, smoking really is hazardous to your health.
TECHNICIAN: Frontier One, do you copy? - [ sonic boom thunders .]
note the direction.
TECHNICIAN 2: S-turn two.
[ over radio .]
: Excellent re-entry, Frontier One.
This is Control.
You are clear for auto-land.
Guidance hold to ten degrees glide slope.
[ technicians cheering, applauding .]
Thank you.
Thank you all for bringing her back safely.
- Welcome home.
- [ sighs happily .]
Oh, I don't know whether to laugh or to cry.
[ sighs happily .]
[ theme music playing .]
A.
.]
: Eurospace Consortium, 15 April.
Recording: Test series Delta.
Five minutes and counting.
Ever ride the moon bus? Very good.
CONTROLLER: Control monitors copy.
Four minutes and counting.
Ground zone clear.
Goodbye, cheri.
Sorry I can't stay.
You were good.
The problem is, you were too good.
Where is Bergerac? I have no idea.
The lead pilot? He's going to miss this! Oh, I don't think so.
CONTROLLER: Nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two Ignition.
[ screaming .]
TECHNICIAN: All systems go.
Colleagues, the first private manned space flight in history Alina.
Congratulations.
has tested perfectly.
We're near ready to launch.
Yes, we are.
[ theme music playing .]
[ bell dinging .]
LIBRARIAN: The library is now closed.
Robert Louis Stevenson, Kidnapped.
Been a favorite of mine since I was a boy.
I think you share that with most boys, from nine to 90.
Well, there aren't many heroes like Alan Breck Stewart.
What else do you recommend? If you're a Stevenson fan, we have The Master of Ballantrae on the shelves.
You'll find it there.
MALE VOICE: Good morning, Jim.
We believe that the disappearance of a man might have compromised the security of the entire world.
He was to command Frontier One, owned and operated by the Eurospace Consortium, a multi-billion-dollar company.
Officially, Bergerac is listed as missing, but we think he might have met with foul play.
Eurospace have leased a piece of Australian outback, built a private base and they're planning to launch very shortly.
The Frontier One is designed for using a super-laser in space, clearing cosmic debris, helping build a new space lab, test-drilling mineral bodies, constructing an orbiting chemical lab.
It could be the future of mankind in space.
But in the wrong hands, it could be the vehicle to a new dimension in terror.
Your mission, Jim, should you choose to accept it, is to make sure that Frontier One is not being used in a terrorist plot to threaten targets on Earth from space.
As always, should you or any member of your IM Force be caught or killed, the Secretary will disavow any knowledge of your actions.
This disc will self-destruct in five seconds.
Good luck, Jim.
NICHOLAS: All the different nationalities.
It certainly looks like the United Nations.
Well, that's the way Eurospace is, as a private company.
Let me tell you, their technology is top-notch, and so are their people.
How did Eurospace get them? Money top salaries, hazard pay, bonuses.
Plus a shot at immortality.
Well, we're gonna join up.
We're halfway there already.
Dr.
Lloyd Bell, distinguished Canadian biologist.
He looks good.
How long has he been there? Three weeks.
The man with him is Matthew Rhine.
He's the new commander of Frontier One.
His background is clean.
Sure.
But he's in command because Bergerac disappeared.
Well, we're going to give him a rival pilot in Judith Rand.
If there is a terrorist plot, this should force the issue.
Well, I've got to hand it to her.
How's she doing? Doing fine so far.
She was hired as Dr.
Judith Rand, PhD, with a NASA background which we invented including the fact that she's a pilot.
- And if they check - If they check, "Judith Rand" is in NASA files.
Now, she's been going head-to-head with Rhine in a series of tests, with Grant backing her up through this receiver.
He can feed her the technical data she needs to outperform Rhine in the tests you will be giving.
- As? - As Dr.
Peter England, MD, PhD, specialist in pilot response analysis.
Hired to conduct the final selection process.
Yes.
Max, you're going in as technical safety supervisor.
Your predecessor won a free vacation trip.
Ought to be landing in Hawaii right about now.
Yeah, got it.
I go in as Dr.
Andrew Lyman, NASA executive, observing the first flight of Frontier One.
This flight has got to be clean.
Has to be a success.
There's enough technology up there to create a nightmare for all of us on this planet.
Dr.
England's just arrived.
Thank you.
Uh, take care of this.
We are most happy to have you join us, Dr.
England.
- Welcome.
- Thank you.
You're Matthew Rhine, Command Pilot.
Yeah.
We haven't finished the tests yet.
I'm Dr.
Judith Rand.
Oh, yes, laser expert.
And lead pilot candidate.
I'd like to see the tests you're planning on.
Yes, well I can show you prototypes.
Good.
I like to be on top of things.
NICHOLAS: Now, this next run of tests is designed to simulate emergencies they could encounter.
We're testing for quick, accurate pilot responses.
We must determine the best pilot commander as quickly as possible.
Oh, don't bother, I'm all right.
Uh, Captain Rhine? All of us are betting you win today.
But, uh it's only a test.
Well, that's not the way I heard it.
I heard it's for all the marbles.
Anyway, good luck.
Testing commences as soon as they're in the cabin.
Captain Rhine.
Dr.
Rand.
The data grids will appear on the inside of your visors.
Put your helmets on.
Shannon? You read me? SHANNON: Ready.
Lower your visors now.
Ten seconds to commencement of test.
Ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one commence.
[ quietly .]
: All right, Shannon.
Reduce thrust R-three.
GRANT: Exactly eight percent.
Perfect score, Dr.
Rand.
Of course.
Don't needle him too much, Shannon.
We are now out of the ionosphere, adjusting for preliminary orbit.
NICHOLAS: Space debris.
You have ten seconds to maneuver to safety.
Now! Ten, nine, eight Lateral thrust, .
29 g.
Trim jet four.
One-second burst now.
SHANNON: Eight seconds.
She's remarkable! And you did well, Matthew.
Well, I take it that means we have a new pilot.
The company rule is very clear.
Command must be given to the best performer.
Congratulations.
Thanks.
What's that? We're taking off.
Well, can't you do something? No, way.
We have main engine start.
Stay in your seat, Doctor! Rhine! GRANT: Jim, get her! Alina she's at the launch control.
You're wasting your time.
They've got an override program in the system.
Our controls are useless! Rhine, you can't risk a liftoff.
NICHOLAS: We haven't finished the check-down! RHINE: I ran all the data yesterday.
She's ready.
Relax I'm committing a piece of history, not suicide.
Rhine, you can't make it without a backup team down here.
[ laughs .]
I'll struggle.
Okay, people, a fast chorus of "Bye, Bye, Birdie.
" PHELPS: He's going into orbit.
SOVOLEV: He has complete control of the ship.
TECHNICIAN: Hey! What is going on here? Who are you people? ALINA: This base is now under the control of the liberation forces of General Robard.
Welcome, sir.
You betrayed us! TECHNICIAN: Hey! Please don't TECHNICIAN 2: Leave us alone! This is insane! Without backup I've got all the backup I need.
Welcome to Eurospace Base, General Robard.
Are you in full control? RHINE: I am.
SHANNON: Who is that? That woman was to be killed.
RHINE: Uh, it's okay.
Alina decided I could use a laser expert.
Very well.
Proceed with the mission.
What do you want from us? Quiet.
Dr.
Andrew Lyman, NASA.
Correct? Drs.
England and Dr.
Bell.
Dr.
Bell.
That's right.
An educated man of color should not allow himself to be used.
You, what is your function? Technical safety.
Then you will continue that role.
Dr.
Sovolev? ALINA: Hmm.
ROBARD: Mm.
The force I represent is now in command of this base.
What force is that? [ groans .]
You are all required to support Dr.
Rhine in every capacity.
Disobedience will be punished.
Saboteurs will be executed.
You performed your duties in eliminating Bergerac, but you failed to kill Judith Rand.
Dr.
Rhine was then forced to launch without full preparation.
It seemed more efficient to make use of her.
And the liftoff was successful.
But you made a vital decision without consulting me.
[ screams .]
As I said, disobedience will be punished.
General Robard Sir I run a constant bio-check on the crew, make sure that they stay healthy.
You will continue to do so, Dr.
Bell, with your personnel.
You will report to me regularly here.
Yes, sir.
What mission was he talking about? I'll show you in just one moment.
Come on down here.
You're heating up the laser.
Yep.
Target is dead ahead.
That's a communications satellite.
It was.
[ laughing .]
What in hell was that? Get me the President.
Half of Europe's out! I want all the data what happened, how, and who, by damn, did it? RHINE: That should've got everybody's attention, General.
I'm ready for the satellite whenever you are.
Wait for my command.
You're going to blow another communications satellite why? Oh, not destroy it.
We're gonna use it to patch into the TV news.
[ chuckling .]
Breaking News has just received a fresh update from the White House on the assault in space.
The White House has confirmed that the attack was not I repeat not made by Soviet weaponry.
And tracking stations report that the attack was made from a spacecraft of some kind.
Officials are positive that It's crazy.
Why destroy a communication satellite? NEWSCASTER: To remain calm, as there is no indication Well, to get a mule's attention, the first thing you do is hit him over the head with a club.
NEWSCASTER: There has been no identification of the mystery spacecraft Now! nor any clue as to who is manning it You're right.
Rhine's patching old Stone-face out there to a satellite channel.
He's taking over the TV news.
All I know is our relay went crazy.
ROBARD: Attention Wait wait I think we're getting something ROBARD: Your attention.
I'm Robard.
I'm in command of the spacecraft Liberation, formerly named Frontier One.
Satellites of the United States and the Soviet Union are now under our guns.
Get on to the CIA.
I want an I.
D.
On him.
- Personal profile, sir? - Voice analysis everything, damn it! - Yes, sir.
- Right away, sir.
ROBARD: We ask only this, that the United States give us command of one surveillance satellite to help us maintain peace.
We ask for the computer codes that unlock and control this satellite.
We pledge that we will never use its military capability against the United States, but only to protect our national borders and the rights of our own people.
If the United States does not agree, we will destroy every American satellite in space.
So, be warned.
You have three hours to agree.
Three hours.
That military surveillance satellite should come within our range in the next, uh, half hour.
Contact me then.
Why don't you get through to Shannon.
Shannon, do you read me? I read you.
I mean you'd risk burning a U.
S.
Military satellite? Yep, just like the god of thunder, perfect lightning bolts in space.
Shannon, you have to stop Ryan.
Can you sabotage the ship's laser? I understand what you're saying.
But the risk are you doing it for money? Not the money power.
[ whispers .]
: Jim here, listen.
I think I found something.
Laser control.
Electronic linkages were never fully checked out.
That was supposed to happen just before the scheduled takeoff.
You mean Shannon could put stress on the laser.
There should be a program testing them to their limit.
Dr.
Lyman come with me.
[ whispers .]
: Yeah.
Shannon.
The laser control gear is vulnerable.
I've accessed a program to push it over the edge.
You got it? I better run some tests.
Hands off.
You might need to recalibrate it before using it again.
It works just fine.
You've seen the proof of that.
[ sighs .]
Nice try, Shannon.
Keep at it.
Send me a signal if you can talk him around.
Use that word"recalibrate.
" I'll know you're ready.
[ beeping quietly .]
Max, you've tapped us into that security camera.
Right.
ROBARD: Dr.
Sovolev is seriously wounded.
He cannot function.
Time for his portrait.
You are the senior official on this base, so I will hold you responsible for the work.
PHELPS: Actually, I'm only an observer.
I can have you shot and speak to the next senior man.
PHELPS: I'll be happy to cooperate.
How's that? Good.
All of you in mission control you must support our effort fully.
Is that clear? Oh, very clear.
But our people have to be able to run their technical and safety checks.
What? There's radioactive material on this base.
We have to run constant checks.
Do what is necessary.
You will be completely responsible for our safety.
I understand.
There's a conduit channel on the floor near Robard's chair, with ventilation slots.
MAX: I think there could be something very dangerous in there.
Good thinking.
Robards has a weak spot.
He's a chain-smoker.
We'll use that.
Have you got enough for a mask of Robard? Yes.
Were you able to find the program for Shannon to use? Just waiting for her signal.
Here comes our target now.
The nuclear power source on board great.
Oh, it won't blow.
It'll just melt like a candle.
Only if the laser's aimed perfectly.
It will be.
Hmm.
After ignoring standard operating procedures? Like when? When you fired it last.
My training says that you always check the targeting sensors before using it again.
Especially when you use it up to full power.
Let me run the tests.
Make it quick.
Confirm Stage Red.
Stand by to launch conventional missiles.
But against 14 million in New York, ten million in Moscow, three-and-one-half million in Sydney The Australian government have agreed to a non-nuclear strike.
We'll try our damnedest to get out of this peacefully.
But, if not we'll wipe out the base.
It's okay for power.
Now, I'll recalibrate the aiming sensors.
Okay.
Shannon here's the high-stress program that may overload the control linkages.
Run this sequence.
Fifty.
Thirty two nineteen - sixteen - Grant We've got interference.
It'll just take a moment or so to verify.
What's going on here? A little problem with the computer.
Better check for radiation.
Yes, that would explain the interference.
[ clicking .]
What's that? Got a hot spot, Dr.
Lyman.
- Mark it.
- Right.
Somebody got careless.
Tell your men not to go near anything with that mark on it.
It could be highly dangerous.
Yes, I will.
Get back to Shannon fast.
Shannon, you read me? Yes.
Fine.
Get that laser operational.
All right.
Here's the rest of the numbers: Nine, thirty-eight Something's funny here.
Cut the power.
The problem's physical.
These controls won't shift it.
Well, you're the laser expert.
You'll just have to go out there and free it up.
What? A spacewalk? But it's Judith Rand she's meant to be fully trained for it.
Well, she's gutsy enough, if we can talk her through it.
She'll have to fix the laser.
Then we have to get to Robard before she gets it working.
Max is in position.
Are you ready, Nicholas? Yes.
Then we gotta go.
You You! What are you doing? Radiation check.
Sir.
Dr.
Lyman explained.
There is much radioactive material used.
There could be danger from it.
If I find this is only a ploy to disturb my men I will have you shot.
General Robard's going to wish he quit smoking years ago.
Okay.
Do your stuff or you're dead.
Understand? Shannon, you read me? I'm ready.
[ airlock latch clicks, air hisses .]
Just a walk in the park, baby.
My God it's beautiful.
Are you okay? I'm scared.
Get moving.
Well, you have every right to be scared.
GRANT: We'll talk you through it.
Remember, you're tethered to that ship.
Nothing can go wrong.
Yeah, right.
I'm okay.
Hang in there and take it slowly.
We have a plan working.
Yeah.
Spaceship Frontier One Frontier One, this is General Josiah Ransom, United States Air Force.
Respond.
I repeat We've picked up a satellite-bounce transmission - from the Pentagon.
- Nail it down.
RANSOM: This communication is of the utmost urgency.
PHELPS: Can you punch through to them? - GRANT: Maybe.
- Acknowledge, Frontier One.
Take a few seconds.
I assume you're hearing me, so listen carefully.
I'll make it simple.
I speak for the President of the United States, the General Secretary of the Soviet Union and the Prime Minister of Australia.
We will not be held hostage or comply with your demands.
Be warned.
In precisely one hour, we are prepared to eliminate the Eurospace Base with our weaponry.
Innocent people will die, we know that.
But your terrorists also will die.
And you will be abandoned in space.
You have one hour to respond.
That's all.
ROBARD: You go now.
No one leaves the building.
I repeat, no one leaves the building.
They're going to wipe out this base.
We have 59 minutes.
NORAD's on red alert.
I can't get through direct.
Every channel's locked up.
We'll have to try to relay through Frontier One.
It's the only way.
And only Shannon can do that.
And, first, we have to get to Robard.
GRANT [ over radio .]
: Shannon, how you doing? Remember, Rhine can hear everything you say.
So far, so good.
Okay.
I'm going to tell you what to do to fix the laser, while we take Robard out of the play.
GRANT: Look down the right-hand side of the barrel mounting.
You'll find a recessed keying hole.
Got it? I think I've found the problem.
Now, in your kit, you'll find a tool that fits a small hexagonal nut.
Inside the keying hole, beneath the laser wand it's a tension control.
I see the trouble.
Okay, you'll have to ease it off so that the laser is free to turn.
I'm freeing the tension control.
Once you've done that, you'll have to tighten the lock nut.
If it's not tight, the tension control will slacken right off.
Sorry, but, we're gonna have to leave you to it.
We will demolish another satellite, Dr.
Rhine.
Immediately.
RHINE: Uh, the laser needs work.
It may take a while.
You failed to tell me, Dr.
Rhine.
I've sent Dr.
Rand out to take care of it.
My laser expert? She doesn't get back inside till the job's done.
Inform me at once.
- What is that? - It's a burst pipe.
[ Geiger counter clicking rapidly .]
It's radioactive steam get out of there.
Get out! Now! Come on! Bring him in here.
PHELPS: General Everyone else, keep clear.
When I'm covered with poison I need a cigarette.
Can I have a cigarette? GRANT: Give the general a cigarette, please.
Let me have them.
You stay here, for your own safety.
Look, you were pretty close to that spill.
- Let me check you out.
- Cigarette, now! Cigarette, please.
MAX: He's fine.
Come on, wait down here.
[ keyboarding .]
Shannon, Robard is out.
Nicholas is in.
How you doing? Now, I'll tighten the lock nut.
Yeah, how're you doing with the voice? I've heard it enough.
[ clicking .]
All clear.
General! Shall we evacuate the base, General? The American missiles are about to I'll deal with it.
Assemble all of our people here.
Now.
I want to address them personally.
It's done! I've unjammed the laser! Good girl.
Now, we gotta get you back inside.
Congratulations, Dr.
Rand.
You just saved your own life.
Come on in out of the cold.
I'm snagged! You'll have to unhitch your tether.
Hold on to the laser.
Shannon if you got no options, just take it nice and slow.
Just like undoing a seatbelt.
Aah! Oh, my God! Bye, Dr.
Rand.
[ gasps .]
Help! Help me! Shannon! Help me Oh! I can't stop! Jim! Grant! Help Help I'm drifting.
I'm drifting away from the ship into space! Keep calm.
Tell me what sort of equipment you have.
And don't worry about Rhine hearing you.
EVA communication was broken when you went off the tether.
I've got tools.
And-and a half hour's worth of air.
All right, listen the air supply can be used as a jet.
Try to reach the purge valve.
I understand.
L-I'm trying to get there.
L-I can't feel much.
I'm trying.
Condition Red.
RHINE: I'm ready to take the satellite out now.
Not yet time.
Wait.
That's an order.
Where is Dr.
Rand? She went outside and, uh she never came back.
I see.
The general has new orders.
There is a possibility of an American missile attack.
However, this base has an impregnable bunker.
Troops only; go with this man to take shelter.
All other base personnel shall remain at their stations.
Do not move.
I've got about ten minutes worth of air in my suit so here goes.
It works.
Jim! Grant! It works! SOLIDER: All the way in the back.
Come on, everybody.
This place isn't deep enough to withstand a missile attack.
[ grunts .]
GUARD: Hey! What? Wait a minute! Get the door! [ muffled .]
: -Open it! - Open the door! Open the door! [ muffled shouting .]
I made it.
Now, we just have to deal with Rhine.
Don't worry, Jim.
He's mine.
Yes, sir, Mr.
President.
We'll give them every second we can.
But does the decision still stand? Yes, sir.
[ echoing over P.
A.
.]
: Continue with Condition Red.
Five minutes to missile launch.
GRANT: NORAD's still on red alert.
PHELPS: Everything depends on Shannon.
[ Iow, indistinct radio communication .]
[ hatch clanks shut .]
[ latch clicks open .]
[ air hissing, alarm blaring .]
[ screaming .]
Jim Grant I got him.
We never doubted you would.
Jim, we got less than two minutes.
Shannon, can you put these code coordinates through the ship's system via your satellite link we have no other way to reach NORAD.
to missile launch.
SHANNON: This is Frontier One in space, calling General Joshua Ransom urgent! Jim, you're patched in.
General, I'm calling from Eurospace Base.
My government cryptonym is U.
S.
[ over P.
A.
.]
: Alpha seven-one-six Charlie.
Are you a prisoner of the terrorists? Negative.
The terrorists are safely out of action.
Cancel the missile strike.
[ echoing over P.
A.
.]
: Ransom, Command HQ.
Cancel Operation Erase! Repeat: Cancel! Thank you.
How the hell did you get there? I'm sorry, General, we seem to be losing our connection.
[ coughing .]
You know, smoking really is hazardous to your health.
TECHNICIAN: Frontier One, do you copy? - [ sonic boom thunders .]
note the direction.
TECHNICIAN 2: S-turn two.
[ over radio .]
: Excellent re-entry, Frontier One.
This is Control.
You are clear for auto-land.
Guidance hold to ten degrees glide slope.
[ technicians cheering, applauding .]
Thank you.
Thank you all for bringing her back safely.
- Welcome home.
- [ sighs happily .]
Oh, I don't know whether to laugh or to cry.
[ sighs happily .]
[ theme music playing .]