WE’RE OFF TO MARS
Episode #474 · Written by Joe Gibson · Narrated by Scott Miller
A mysterious delivery brings Joe Linger a device that can reshape reality itself — and suddenly the universe feels wide open. But with limitless power comes danger, curiosity, and a decision that will change his place in the cosmos forever.
“We’re Off to Mars!” by Joe Gibson begins with an ordinary man and an extraordinary delivery. Joe Linger receives a mysterious package from the far future: a remarkable robot capable of transforming matter into almost anything he can describe. A phone, a feast, money, even new clothes — every wish becomes reality. But each choice he makes increases the pressure on time itself, and soon the possibilities grow far beyond life on Earth.
The story blends humor, curiosity, and the excitement of discovery with genuine tension. Joe learns quickly that incredible tools come with risks, moral questions, and consequences that ripple across history. When the universe suddenly opens to him, the decision he faces is larger than survival or comfort — it’s about freedom, danger, and destiny among the stars. The result is classic, hopeful science fiction filled with possibilities.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Joe Gibson was part of the mid-century wave of writers who helped define the tone and imagination of popular science fiction magazines. His work often centers on everyday people confronted with impossible technology and sweeping cosmic ideas. Gibson had a knack for pacing, light humor, and “wow factor” concepts that still feel fun and accessible today.
In “We’re Off to Mars!”, those strengths are on full display. The story captures that vintage sense of wonder: bold invention, playful speculation, and the thrill of stepping beyond the world we know. Fans of classic sci-fi will appreciate the adventure, the optimism, and the way ordinary life collides with overwhelming discovery.
LISTEN TO THE STORY
Listen to We’re Off to Mars by Joe Gibson — a thrilling vintage science fiction short story of time travel, strange technology, and big dreams.
RELATED STORIES
- King of the Hill by James Blish
- Dwellers in Silence by Ray Bradbury
- The One Who Waits by Ray Bradbury
ABOUT THE LOST SCI-FI PODCAST
The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast is the most listened-to vintage science fiction podcast in the world. Ranked the #1 Science Fiction Podcast in 34 countries and heard in more than 190 countries, the show has surpassed 3.2 million listens, introducing classic science fiction to a global audience of devoted fans.
Each episode features carefully selected stories from the Golden Age of science fiction, professionally narrated. Timeless storytelling the way it was meant to be heard.
What listeners are saying:
★★★★★
“What a Find! These podcasts are the “perfect storm” for people like me, who love classic stories from the pages of the old sci-fi periodicals, and appreciate when they are really well done.”
— user1234xyz
★★★★★
“I love this podcast! This is everything I ever wanted in a podcast! Great reading, great stories and a narrator who is a bit of a historian.”
— kumarido
Vintage science fiction. Professionally narrated. Carefully curated.
📬 JOIN LOST SCI-FI WEEKLY
25,000+ Listeners Can’t Be Wrong
Get vintage sci-fi stories, podcast episodes, and surprises every Monday.
FREE SCI-FI EVERY WEEK
✅ Check your email and confirm — that unlocks your free sci-fi downloads.
No spam in this galaxy. You can eject anytime.