Star Crystal

Star Crystal

Year: 1986

Runtime: 91 mins

Language: English

Director: Lance Lindsay

Science FictionHorror

Scientists in orbit detect an unprecedented extraterrestrial organism, prompting a daring mission to investigate. As the crew of the research vessel approaches the anomaly, the alien reveals a lethal, predatory nature, forcing the astronauts into a desperate struggle for survival against a relentless, unknown force.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Star Crystal (1986)

Trace every key event in Star Crystal (1986) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Discovery of the Mars egg

In 2032, a crewed mission on Mars uncovers a buried egg and brings it aboard the SC-37. The egg hatches into a crystalline object and a slimy alien, prompting immediate observation. The crew's first contact hints at unusual intelligence and dangerous potential.

2032 Mars surface
2

Fateful experiments and air loss

The crew conducts experiments on the crystal and the alien, hoping to unlock their secrets. Their air supply is abruptly shut off, leading to the scientists' deaths and signaling how dangerous the situation is. The incident establishes the lethal stakes of their exploration.

shortly after hatching SC-37
3

Two months later: L-5 interception and destruction

Two months after the Mars incident, SC-37 is intercepted by the space station L-5 and is destroyed by a malfunctioning neutron reactor. A ragtag repair crew escapes aboard the damaged ship, clinging to hope despite the odds. They quickly realize they lack the supplies to return to Earth or rely on a rescue.

Two months after Mars incident Deep space near L-5
4

Survivors vow to seek supplies

The five survivors form a wary alliance and decide they cannot wait for rescue. They choose to stop at two supply stations to remedy their dwindling provisions before attempting a return to Earth.

early journey after escape SC-37
5

Alien kills crew; two remain

The alien hides in the engine room and begins killing the crew, pushing the mission toward disaster. In the ensuing crisis, only Roger Campbell and Dr. Adrian Kimberly survive to confront the threat.

as the crew tries to reach supplies SC-37 engine room
6

Alien retreats with the crystal

Roger and Adrian manage to lock the alien out of the bridge, forcing it back to the engine room with the crystal. The two survivors realize they are now the last line of defense for the ship.

shortly after the breach SC-37 bridge and engine room
7

Bernice reveals the alien's maturation and the crystal's function

While investigating the ship's computer Bernice, the crew uncovers data from the original crew indicating the alien rapidly matures and grows in intelligence. They also learn the crystal operates as an advanced computer the alien uses when solving problems.

soon after SC-37 computer Bernice
8

The crystal-hacked ship and fake rescue

Using the crystal, the alien hacks into SC-37 and takes control, cutting off communications with Earth. It also tricks a nearby ship into thinking the SC-37 does not require rescue, isolating the crew further.

later SC-37
9

Meteor storm and force field

A meteor storm erupts and endangers the ship. The alien uses the crystal to project a protective force field, allowing the ship to weather the danger while the crew fights to regain control.

during meteor storm Space around SC-37
10

Rations retrieved, but the alien spares the rescuer

Roger is forced to enter the lab to retrieve a crate of rations and returns to the bridge without threatening the alien. In a surprising turn, the alien does not harm him and allows him to pass, revealing a more complex motive behind its actions.

after storm SC-37 lab/bridge
11

Engine repair and Alpha-7 plan

Roger and Adrian decide to press on toward the first supply station Alpha-7, but Bernice informs them that engine repairs are required for this to be feasible. They resolve to confront the alien and fix the ship to keep their plan on course.

before heading to Alpha-7 SC-37
12

Confrontation: GAR reveals itself

In the engine room, the alien reveals itself as GAR and apologizes for its actions, claiming it fought in self-defense. It surrenders control of the ship back to Roger and Adrian, and they strike a bargain: deliver SC-37 to GAR's home world in exchange for safe passage.

confrontation Engine room
13

Repair, alliance, and Alpha-7 arrival

The trio repair the ship and slowly form a cautious friendship despite their conflicting origins. SC-37 docks at Alpha-7, and Roger helps GAR load rations for its voyage.

arrival Alpha-7
14

Gravity tunnel opens; parting of ways

A gravity tunnel opens, offering a shortcut home for Roger and Adrian, but GAR chooses to depart. It uses the crystal to convert Alpha-7 into a ship and sets off toward its planet, waving goodbye to its human friends.

gravity tunnel event Alpha-7 vicinity
15

Earth reunion

Roger and Adrian depart Alpha-7 and begin the voyage back to Earth. They reflect on their unlikely friendship with GAR and the fragile balance between human curiosity and interstellar beings. The mission concludes with their safe return to Earth, while GAR continues its journey across space.

ending Earth orbit / home

Last Updated: October 09, 2025 at 14:19

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Star Crystal Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Star Crystal

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Star Crystal

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