Space has always been a fascinating subject, filled with questions about distant planets, unknown worlds and the possibility of life beyond Earth. Anime creators have explored these ideas through stories about astronauts, space travellers, futuristic technology and young people chasing their dreams among the stars.
Some series focus on realistic space missions, while others mix science fiction with adventure, comedy and emotional storytelling. You do not need to be an expert in science to enjoy them. Their interesting characters and imaginative settings make space an exciting place to explore.
If you enjoy stories set beyond our planet, here are seven space anime series worth adding to your watchlist.
1. Space Brothers
Space Brothers follows two brothers, Mutta and Hibito Nanba, who made a childhood promise to become astronauts together.
Years later, Hibito achieves his dream and becomes an astronaut, while Mutta is struggling with his career. After an unexpected turn of events, Mutta gets another chance to follow his childhood ambition.
The story follows his preparation, training and journey towards becoming an astronaut. It also explores the relationship between the brothers and the importance of not giving up on old dreams.
Space Brothers is a great choice for viewers who enjoy realistic storytelling, personal growth and the challenges of working towards a difficult goal.
2. Astra Lost in Space
Astra Lost in Space begins when a group of students travels to a distant planet for a school camp. Their trip takes a dangerous turn when a mysterious event sends them far away from their original destination.
The students find an abandoned spaceship and decide to use it to return home. During their journey, they visit different planets and face several unexpected problems.
The series combines space adventure, friendship and mystery. Each character has a different personality, and the group must work together to survive.
Its short story and surprising developments make it a good option for viewers looking for an exciting science fiction anime.
3. Planetes
Planetes offers a different look at space by focusing on people who work in Earth’s orbit. The story follows a group of employees responsible for collecting space debris that could damage satellites and spacecraft.
The main character, Hachimaki, dreams of owning his own spaceship and travelling further into space. However, his everyday job introduces him to the challenges faced by ordinary workers in the space industry.
The anime explores ambition, teamwork, workplace relationships and the risks of space travel.
Planetes is especially interesting for viewers who want a more grounded science fiction story rather than a series filled with fantasy battles.
4. Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop is a classic science fiction anime set in a future where humans have travelled across the solar system.
The story follows a group of bounty hunters who travel through space searching for criminals in exchange for rewards. The team includes Spike Spiegel, Jet Black, Faye Valentine, Edward and a clever dog named Ein.
Each character has a different past, and their individual stories slowly become part of the larger narrative.
The anime combines action, comedy, music and emotional moments. Its space setting gives the characters a huge world to explore, while its memorable soundtrack adds to the experience.
5. Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury
Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury takes place in a future where space development and powerful companies shape human society.
The story follows Suletta Mercury, who joins the Asticassia School of Technology, an academy where students compete using advanced mobile suits.
Suletta’s arrival brings unexpected changes to the school and its relationships. The series explores ambition, family, friendship and the role of technology in society.
Although it includes giant robot battles, the story also focuses on the characters and their personal struggles.
It is a suitable entry point for viewers interested in the Gundam universe and futuristic space settings.
6. The Orbital Children
The Orbital Children is a science fiction anime set in a future where children are living aboard a commercial space station.
Their ordinary visit becomes a dangerous experience after a major incident affects the station. The young characters must use their knowledge and teamwork to deal with the situation.
The story explores artificial intelligence, technology, human survival and the future of space exploration.
Its shorter format makes it easier to watch than many long-running science fiction series. It is a good choice for viewers who enjoy futuristic settings and stories about young characters facing difficult challenges.
7. Captain Harlock
Captain Harlock is a classic space adventure anime about a mysterious space pirate who travels through the universe aboard the spaceship Arcadia.
Harlock challenges powerful authorities and follows his own sense of justice, even when others consider him an enemy.
The series features space battles, distant worlds and questions about freedom, courage and responsibility.
Its old-school animation style gives it a different feel from modern anime. Viewers who enjoy classic science fiction and adventurous characters may find it especially interesting.
Which Space Anime Should You Watch First?
Each of these series explores space in a different way. Space Brothers is ideal for viewers who enjoy realistic astronaut stories, while Astra Lost in Space offers adventure and mystery.
Planetes focuses on everyday work in orbit, and Cowboy Bebop brings action and memorable characters. The Witch from Mercury is a good pick for giant robot battles, while The Orbital Children explores future technology. Captain Harlock is worth watching for fans of classic space adventures.
Whether you prefer realistic missions or imaginative journeys across the universe, these space anime offer plenty of reasons to look beyond Earth.
