For 10 days in April 2026, the Artemis II mission captured the world’s imagination, from its dramatic liftoff on April 1 to the anticipation surrounding its splashdown on April 10. News of the first crewed lunar flyby in 50 years stirred pride, hope, and a renewed sense of possibility.
In that spirit, this article celebrates the music that helped shape my own fascination with space. These are my favourite space-themed records, dedicated to the crew of Integrity.
1. A Child’s Introduction to Outer Space (Golden, 1958)
From the timpani and brass build-up to the chorus boisterously singing With a Great Big Noise Like Thunder, the album kicks off with a burst of excitement from arranger/conductor Jim Timmens. Enhanced with narration by Hamilton O’Hara and Charlie Dobson, we learn about the planets, weather satellites, and early space travel through music and song. Golden later reissued an abridged version in 1965 as Journey to the Moon and More About Outer Space.
2. A Trip to the Moon (Peter Pan, 1971)
Written and, presumably, narrated by Maddie Brody, the 7-inch 45 RPM read-along tells the story of a young brother and sister who are thrilled that their astronaut father has been selected for a solo lunar mission. But when he comes down with the measles, the mission can’t wait. So who ends up making the trip in his place? It’s an imaginative musical story for children, inspired by the excitement of the Space Age.
3. Bobby and Betty Go to the Moon (Happy House, 1966)
Speaking of another lunar adventure involving kids, this album has earned a genuine cult following. Set on the first of May in 1985, the titular duo embarks on mission to the moon, arrives at Lunar Central, where they’re welcomed with a celebratory party. The mix of electronic effects and groovy ’60s party music, including a thinly veiled take on the James Brown hit Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag, gives the LP its enduring curiosity factor. Marble Arch, a UK label, reissued the album in 1969.
4. The Jetsons: First Family on the Moon (Hanna-Barbera, 1965)
What makes this album special is that nearly the entire cast reunited after the series left prime time in 1963, following its single season. The one notable absence is George O’Hanlon as George Jetson. Veteran voice actor Don Messick steps into the role, while Daws Butler fills in for Mel Blanc as Mr. Spacely. The story, in which the Jetsons win a contest to become the first family on the moon much to George’s consternation, is peppered with a set of groovy mid-’60s songs that addes to the LP’s playful charm.
5. Star Wars (Buena Vista, 1979)
A long time ago, the first adventure of its kind captured the imagination of moviegoers nationwide in 1977. Before home video became commonplace, books and records were the closest thing to reliving the story set in a galaxy far, far away. This 7-inch book-and-record adaptation features narration, a studio cast, and selections from John Williams’ thrilling score. Here’s a fun fact: the voice of Darth Vader is provided by David Prowse, the actor who wore the suit in the film.
6. Space: 1999: Breakaway (Peter Pan/Power, 1976)
The first of two comic books with 7-inch 45 RPM records, this adaptation of the television pilot introduces the crew of Moonbase Alpha as they’re sent hurtling through space by a catastrophic explosion of nuclear materials buried beneath the moon’s surface. Dramatized by a repertory studio cast with the Power Records’ signature blend of narration, dialogue, and sound effects, it serves as an atmospheric introduction to the series’ mix of mystery and cosmic danger.
7. Moon Voyage (Sunset, 1969)
This album not only recreates the launch of Apollo 11, the mission that carried Neil Armstrong to the lunar surface, but also traces humanity’s long fascination with the heavens. Through narration and dialogue, it moves from the stargazing traditions of the Babylonians to the drama of the moon landing itself, culminating in Armstrong reading the plaque that still rests on the lunar surface. It’s an ambitious production that captures both the history and the emotion of that extraordinary moment.
8. The Space Alphabet (Golden, 1971) (honourable mention)
I mentioned this title in an earlier article, but I couldn’t not leave it off this list. What better way to learn the alphabet than through a space-themed setting, complete with catchy songs, including one for the planets, that are irresistible to sing along to? I challenge anyone to hear it and not participate, especially after a few plays.
And there you have it: a short but enjoyable list of records that helped inspire future astronauts to reach for the stars and beyond. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to experience an adventure of my own through these records and others like them. The countdown begins. See you when I get back!
