Hi, I’m Shimizu!
I’ve always loved manga and anime, and I enjoy introducing works that truly impress me.
This time, I want to spotlight one of my top recommendations — the youth sci-fi survival series Astra Lost in Space.
Originally serialized on Shonen Jump+, this title won the 2019 Manga Taisho (Grand Prize) and was later adapted into an anime the same year. It’s a brilliant mix of science fiction, adventure, mystery, comedy, and coming-of-age drama— everything you could ask for in one story.
Overview
Title: Astra Lost in Space (Japanese: 彼方のアストラ)
Author: Kenta Shinohara
Serialization: 2016–2017, Shonen Jump+
Volumes: 5
Award: Manga Taisho 2019 – Grand Prize Winner
Anime: Aired July–September 2019 (12 episodes, produced by Lerche)
Story (Spoiler-Free)
The story takes place in a future where space travel is part of everyday life.
Eight students from Caird High School — along with a ten-year-old girl named Funicia — land on the planet McPa for a “Planetary Camp.”
But a mysterious sphere suddenly appears and swallows them, sending the group over 5,000 light-years away.
Stranded in deep space, they find an abandoned spaceship and name it the Astra. Together, they must manage their limited resources and navigate through the unknown to return home.
As their journey unfolds, they face harsh planets, personal challenges, and a haunting question — why were they sent into space in the first place?
Highlights
1. The Perfect Balance of Serious and Comedic
Even in life-threatening situations, the banter between characters keeps things light and funny.
One standout is Aries, the cheerful girl whose innocent remarks and funny word mix-ups break the tension at just the right moments.
This rhythm — alternating between tension and laughter — makes the series easy to read and endlessly engaging.
2. A Cast You Can’t Help but Love
From the athletic leader Kanata to the genius scientist, the upbeat mood-maker, and the aspiring doctor — every one of the nine main characters brings something vital to the team.
Their cooperation and determination to survive harsh planetary conditions make you root for them every step of the way.
You’ll definitely find a favorite among them — mine is the mysterious and quietly thoughtful Charce.
3. A Stunning, Mind-Bending Conclusion
This isn’t just another “lost in space” story. The deeper mystery — why were these students sent away? — slowly unfolds, connecting every event in ways that will leave you amazed.
By the end, you’ll find yourself saying, “So that’s what it all meant!” and feel the urge to reread the whole thing to spot the clues you missed.
My Favorite Moment
Kanata, the team’s leader, hates the word “despair.” No matter how bad things get, he never gives up on his friends.
He’s usually lighthearted, but in those moments of courage, he shines.
It made me realize that “despair” isn’t a condition — it’s a choice. As long as you keep moving forward, there’s always a way.
Kanata also lives by simple but powerful survival mottos like “Move forward and you’ll make progress” and “Eat and you’ll feel better.”
His optimism is contagious — reading this story, I often found myself thinking, Yeah, maybe everything will be alright.
Final Thoughts
Astra Lost in Space is a masterful fusion of sci-fi, adventure, mystery, comedy, and youth drama.
It thrills, amuses, and moves you — then surprises you at the end.
With just five manga volumes and a 12-episode anime, it’s short, complete, and incredibly satisfying.
If you haven’t experienced it yet, now’s the perfect time to board the Astra.
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