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The Outer Limits · S02E09

Trial by Fire

Still from The Outer Limits S02E09

Summary

On the day of Charles Halsey's inauguration as President of the United States, scientists detect a large object heading towards Earth at half the speed of light. Halsey, a peace-loving liberal, is rushed to an underground bunker by the Presidential transition team, a group of aides and military men that share the hawkish bent of the previous administration. As the crisis unfolds, it becomes clear that the object came from an armada of alien ships, which are fast approaching Earth. Contact is made, but the aliens' message is unclear. As the U.S. and the other nuclear powers gear up to defend themselves, Halsey must decide: Are these invaders bent on conquering earth or benevolent explorers reaching out to another civilization?

Guest stars

  • Diana Scarwid as Elizabeth Halsey
  • Bruce Harwood as Dr. Norris
  • Robert Foxworth as President Charles Halsey
  • Lawrence Dane as General Covington
  • Jason Gray-Stanford as Airman
  • Scott McNeil as Astronaut
  • Ian Tracey as Mr. Tarkman
  • Claire Riley as News Anchor
  • Dale Wilson as NORAD General Morehouse
  • David Bloom as Expert