Join Books.org — it's free

Book cover of Orbiter
Comics & Graphic Novels, Fiction Subjects, Science Fiction & Fantasy

Orbiter

by Warren Ellis, Colleen Doran
Write a review
Log in to track your reading progress.

Overview

In this science fiction mystery tale, Venture, a space shuttle that disappeared ten years ago with its crew of seven, miraculously returns from outer space without warning or explanation. Occupied by only an insane pilot, the spacecraft shows evidence of a remarkable journey through the solar system. Now, in order to solve the mystery of the shuttle's inexplicable journey and the fate of its six lost astronauts, three NASA specialists are called upon to investigate the alien instrumentation and materials that adorn Venture. But as secrets are revealed, it soon becomes apparent that the shuttle's journey not only took it outside our solar system but to a realm of existence that is unimaginable. SUGGESTED FOR MATURE READERS.

Synopsis

In this science fiction mystery tale, Venture, a space shuttle that disappeared ten years ago with its crew of seven, miraculously returns from outer space without warning or explanation. Occupied by only an insane pilot, the spacecraft shows evidence of a remarkable journey through the solar system. Now, in order to solve the mystery of the shuttle's inexplicable journey and the fate of its six lost astronauts, three NASA specialists are called upon to investigate the alien instrumentation and materials that adorn Venture. But as secrets are revealed, it soon becomes apparent that the shuttle's journey not only took it outside our solar system but to a realm of existence that is unimaginable. SUGGESTED FOR MATURE READERS.

Jonatha Masters - VOYA

Ten years ago, the space shuttle Venture disappeared while orbiting the Earth. The NASA program was shut down, along with all manned shuttle missions into space. The Kennedy Space Center became a shantytown for those waiting for something; perhaps a miracle. Now, the Venture has returned with its crew missing, except for the pilot, and he is not talking. Extreme changes have been made to the shuttle, including new instrumentation and engines, and it is covered in something that resembles skin. A team of three specialists is called in to discover where the Venture went, what has been done to it, and what happened to the crew. Fans of space exploration, time travel, and alien encounters will be especially fond of this graphic novel. It is filled with scientific terms and technical jargon. The illustrations will satisfy any comic book fan and will delight those who are just beginning to discover the world of graphic novels. The novel contains strong language and violent scenes. The makers of the novel suggest that it be marketed to a mature audience. VOYA Codes: 4Q 4P S A/YA G (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Broad general YA appeal; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12; Adult and Young Adult~G). 2003, DC Comics, G100p,

Reviews

There are no reviews yet. Log in to write one.

Editorials

From Barnes & Noble

In an amazing coincidence, Warren Ellis's tale of an alternate-universe America that curtails its space program after the mysterious loss of an orbiter space shuttle was about to be published by Vertigo when the Columbia was lost upon reentry in February 2003. Ellis, a self-described space addict, wound up dedicating this offbeat and, ultimately, uplifting tale of exploration and its risks to the lost shuttle crew. It's both a great read and an unplanned tribute to fallen heroes.

VOYA

Ten years ago, the space shuttle Venture disappeared while orbiting the Earth. The NASA program was shut down, along with all manned shuttle missions into space. The Kennedy Space Center became a shantytown for those waiting for something; perhaps a miracle. Now, the Venture has returned with its crew missing, except for the pilot, and he is not talking. Extreme changes have been made to the shuttle, including new instrumentation and engines, and it is covered in something that resembles skin. A team of three specialists is called in to discover where the Venture went, what has been done to it, and what happened to the crew. Fans of space exploration, time travel, and alien encounters will be especially fond of this graphic novel. It is filled with scientific terms and technical jargon. The illustrations will satisfy any comic book fan and will delight those who are just beginning to discover the world of graphic novels. The novel contains strong language and violent scenes. The makers of the novel suggest that it be marketed to a mature audience. VOYA Codes: 4Q 4P S A/YA G (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Broad general YA appeal; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12; Adult and Young Adult~G). 2003, DC Comics, G100p,
β€” Jonatha Masters

Library Journal

Ten years after the Space Shuttle Venture's disappearance put an end to human space travel, a strangely changed Venture returns to the derelict Kennedy Space Center. A team of specialists is called in to study the ship's modifications and attempt to communicate with its catatonic pilot, the only member of the crew remaining on-board. Their work will change the course of the future. Writer Ellis (The Authority; Transmetropolitan), highly acclaimed by many comics fans, often focuses on the seedy, dark, and brutal, but he shows a different face here, with a passionate commitment to humankind's future in space. Fans of Doran, known for fantasy work such as her series A Distant Soil, will see a different side of her as well in the realistic work here. Part of DC's Vertigo line, this includes gore and some harsh language, but no nudity or sex. When the Shuttle Columbia burned up in reentry just after this book was completed, Ellis and Doran dedicated it to the seven astronauts lost. In its theme, and in its portrayal of the excitement of scientific discovery, this book is reminiscent of the movie Contact, which to this reviewer is a very good thing indeed. Consequently, it is highly recommended for both older teens and adults. Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.

Book Details

Published
June 1, 2004
Publisher
DC Comics
Pages
104
Format
Paperback
ISBN
9781401202682

More by Warren Ellis

Similar books