First Contact — Dimension X (1951)

Before Star Trek imagined the Prime Directive, Murray Leinster dreamed up a story about the most dangerous meeting in the universe — the first contact between two intelligent species. His 1945 novelette, later honored with a Retro Hugo in 1996, introduced the idea of a universal translator — decades before science fiction made it standard issue.

In this Dimension X adaptation by Howard Rodman, two ships — one human, one alien — encounter each other in deep space. Neither can turn back without risking the safety of its home world, and neither can advance without trust. Should they trade, communicate… or destroy each other? As tensions rise, the Earthlings grapple with curiosity, fear, protocol, and the thin line between self-defense and a senseless preemptive strike.

Co-host Greg and Mary talk about the thought-provoking themes in First Contact, and contrast the radio drama with the novella. What do you think happens at the end of this enigmatic sci-fi thriller? 

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