10 Must Watch Space Anime

Space: the final frontier, or perhaps, the ultimate playground for anime creators. Few genres capture the imagination like space anime. With its sprawling galaxies, intense battles, and philosophical musings about humanity’s place in the cosmos, this genre offers a unique blend of escapism and thought-provoking storytelling. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of cosmic adventures or just dipping your toes into the vastness of the anime universe, this list will guide you through ten must-watch space anime that have left an indelible mark on the stars—and our screens.

Picture this: you’re floating in zero gravity, the hum of a spaceship vibrating faintly in your ears, the endless abyss of space stretching beyond the window. That’s the kind of immersive magic these anime deliver, each offering its own slice of brilliance. From heart-pounding dogfights to deeply human stories set against the backdrop of interstellar wonders, these titles span genres like sci-fi, mecha, adventure, and even comedy. And trust us—each one has earned its place in anime history

1: Cowboy Bebop (1998)

When it comes to space anime, Cowboy Bebop is the undeniable heavyweight champion, blending genres like a master chef concocting the ultimate dish. It’s sci-fi, neo-noir, jazz, and western all rolled into one irresistible package. Directed by the legendary Shinichiro Watanabe, this 26-episode masterpiece isn’t just an anime—it’s an experience.

Set in a futuristic universe where humanity has colonized the solar system, Cowboy Bebop follows a ragtag crew of bounty hunters aboard the spaceship Bebop. There’s Spike Spiegel, the smooth-talking, haunted gunslinger; Jet Black, the no-nonsense captain; Faye Valentine, a femme fatale with secrets; Edward, the eccentric hacker; and Ein, the adorable data dog. Together, they chase bounties, confront their pasts, and ponder life’s existential questions—all to a soul-stirring jazz and blues soundtrack by Yoko Kanno.

The animation, courtesy of Sunrise Studios, is as timeless as the story. Every frame feels cinematic, from the fluid fight scenes to the stunning shots of deep space. It’s no surprise the anime holds an official rating of 8.9 on MyAnimeList and remains one of the most beloved titles in the sci-fi genre.

Cowboy Bebop isn’t just about flashy visuals or thrilling action; it’s about the melancholy of drifting in space—both literally and emotionally. Think of it like The Great Gatsby of anime: stylish, poignant, and unforgettable. Even after the final “See you, space cowboy,” you’ll find yourself pondering its themes of loneliness, redemption, and human connection.

2: Legend of the Galactic Heroes (1988–1997)

If Cowboy Bebop is the jazzy gunslinger of space anime, then Legend of the Galactic Heroes is its Shakespearean epic. This monumental series isn’t just a story—it’s an odyssey spanning decades, with themes of political intrigue, war, and the moral ambiguities of leadership. Based on Yoshiki Tanaka’s novels, this anime offers a staggering 110 episodes of complex storytelling and thought-provoking dialogue.

Set in a distant future where humanity has colonized the galaxy, the series follows two opposing factions: the democratic Free Planets Alliance and the autocratic Galactic Empire. At the heart of this interstellar struggle are two brilliant tacticians: Reinhard von Lohengramm, a charismatic young noble with dreams of uniting the galaxy under his rule, and Yang Wen-li, a reluctant military genius fighting for democracy. Their rivalry is the axis around which this sprawling tale of power, corruption, and humanity revolves.

This anime doesn’t rely on flashy battles or mecha to carry its narrative—although its space battles, rendered with exquisite attention to detail, are breathtaking. Instead, it dives deep into the human psyche, examining the cost of ambition, the weight of leadership, and the inevitable cycles of history. Imagine Game of Thrones in space, but with better writing and a more satisfying conclusion.

The animation, produced by Artland and Magic Bus, reflects its era, but don’t let its retro aesthetic fool you. Its visual storytelling is meticulous, with every uniform, spaceship design, and battle strategy oozing authenticity. Holding an official rating of 9.0 on MyAnimeList, it’s widely regarded as one of the greatest anime of all time, not just in the space genre.

Watching Legend of the Galactic Heroes is like gazing at a masterfully painted mural of human history—but in space. Its themes resonate universally, making it a must-watch for anyone who craves depth and drama in their anime.

3: Space Battleship Yamato (Star Blazers) (1974)

Space Battleship Yamato, known as Star Blazers in the West, is a cornerstone of space anime—a classic that laid the groundwork for the genre as we know it. Often called “the father of space operas,” this series takes viewers on an emotional, high-stakes journey across the cosmos.

The story is set in the year 2199, when Earth has been devastated by radioactive asteroids launched by the alien Gamilas. Humanity’s last hope lies in the titular battleship Yamato, retrofitted into a starship capable of interstellar travel. With limited time before Earth becomes uninhabitable, the crew of the Yamato embarks on a desperate mission to reach the distant planet Iscandar, where they hope to find a device to restore their home.

What makes Space Battleship Yamato iconic is its emotional weight. This isn’t just a story about space battles—it’s about sacrifice, duty, and the resilience of the human spirit. The show’s sweeping orchestral score, dramatic visuals, and heartfelt character moments combine to create a timeless tale that still resonates today.

The original series ran for 26 episodes, with multiple sequels and remakes, including the beautifully animated Space Battleship Yamato 2199 (2012), which reimagines the classic with modern visuals. Its official rating on MyAnimeList sits at 8.2, a testament to its enduring legacy.

If Cowboy Bebop is a jazz solo and Legend of the Galactic Heroes is a symphony, Space Battleship Yamato is a heartfelt ballad—a tale of hope sung through the vast expanse of space.

4: Planetes (2003–2004)

While many space anime focus on epic battles or grand political schemes, Planetes takes a refreshingly grounded approach. This slice-of-life sci-fi series explores the unsung heroes of space exploration—orbital debris collectors. Yes, it’s a story about space janitors, but don’t let that humble premise fool you. Planetes is as rich and impactful as the stars it depicts.

Set in the year 2075, where humanity has expanded its reach into space, the series follows the crew of the Toy Box, a vessel tasked with clearing dangerous debris from Earth’s orbit. Among them are Ai Tanabe, a young, idealistic recruit, and Hachirota “Hachimaki” Hoshino, a gruff astronaut with dreams of owning his own spaceship. Through their day-to-day struggles and personal growth, the show explores themes of ambition, human relationships, and the ethical dilemmas of space colonization.

Planetes is a rare gem in the space anime genre, blending hard science fiction with deeply human storytelling. The series delves into the technical challenges of space travel while weaving in intimate, relatable character arcs. Its grounded visuals, courtesy of Sunrise Studios, feel authentic, capturing the stark beauty of space alongside the mundane details of daily life aboard a space station.

Critically acclaimed for its realistic portrayal of space and emotional depth, Planetes holds an official rating of 8.3 on MyAnimeList. It’s a must-watch for fans who prefer their sci-fi with a dose of realism and a focus on the human experience. Think of it as the anime equivalent of The Martian—but with more heart.

5: Mobile Suit Gundam (Universal Century Series)

When you think of space anime, it’s impossible not to mention Mobile Suit Gundam. Specifically, the Universal Century timeline is where this iconic franchise truly shines, offering a saga of epic proportions that has defined the mecha genre for decades.

The Universal Century begins with Mobile Suit Gundam (1979), set during the One Year War between the Earth Federation and the space-dwelling Principality of Zeon. The series follows Amuro Ray, a young pilot who stumbles upon the Earth Federation’s prototype mobile suit, the RX-78-2 Gundam. As he becomes embroiled in the war, Amuro must confront the horrors of battle, the moral ambiguities of both sides, and his growing rivalry with Char Aznable, one of anime’s most iconic antagonists.

What sets the Universal Century apart is its mature storytelling and nuanced exploration of war. These aren’t simple good-versus-evil tales; instead, they delve into the political, social, and personal ramifications of conflict. The mecha battles are spectacular, but it’s the human drama and moral dilemmas that make this series unforgettable.

With its multiple sequels and spin-offs—like Zeta Gundam and Char’s Counterattack—the Universal Century timeline offers a rich, interconnected narrative that rewards dedicated viewers. The animation quality varies across the decades but consistently pushes the boundaries of the medium. Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin (2015), a prequel exploring Char’s backstory, boasts stunning modern visuals while staying true to the franchise’s roots.

Holding an official rating of 8.0+ across multiple entries, the Universal Century series is a must-watch for fans of mecha, space opera, and complex storytelling. It’s the anime equivalent of Star Wars meets Saving Private Ryan, with giant robots.

6: Space Dandy (2014)

From the mind of Shinichiro Watanabe, the creator of Cowboy Bebop, comes Space Dandy—a cosmic comedy that defies conventions and revels in absurdity. This is Rick and Morty meets Futurama, sprinkled with Watanabe’s signature style and flair.

Space Dandy follows the adventures of the titular Dandy, a pompadoured alien hunter with a penchant for intergalactic diners and dance-offs. Accompanied by his robot assistant QT and a talking cat-like alien named Meow, Dandy travels the universe in search of rare aliens, often stumbling into bizarre and hilarious situations along the way.

What makes Space Dandy so unique is its episodic structure and creative freedom. Each episode explores wildly different themes and art styles, ranging from poignant love stories to zany, fourth-wall-breaking escapades. Despite its chaotic tone, the series occasionally dips into surprisingly profound territory, reflecting on life, death, and the nature of existence.

Animated by Studio Bones, the visuals are as vibrant and diverse as the stories themselves, with each episode feeling like a standalone work of art. Space Dandy holds an official rating of 8.1 on MyAnimeList, a testament to its bold creativity and enduring appeal.

This anime is a cosmic rollercoaster—wild, unpredictable, and endlessly entertaining. It’s the perfect watch for fans who love their space adventures with a side of absurd humor and a dash of heart.

7: Outlaw Star (1998)

If you’ve ever dreamed of space adventures filled with treasure hunts, quirky characters, and intense gunfights, Outlaw Star delivers it all with flair. This anime captures the spirit of a good ol’ space western, blending action, comedy, and just the right amount of mystery to keep you hooked.

The story follows Gene Starwind, a cocky, self-assured jack-of-all-trades, and his younger partner Jim Hawking. Their mundane lives take a wild turn when they’re hired by a mysterious woman to protect a bio-android named Melfina. This leads them to the Outlaw Star, a state-of-the-art spaceship that becomes their key to chasing after the fabled Galactic Leyline—a legendary treasure said to grant ultimate power.

What sets Outlaw Star apart is its mix of fast-paced action and heartfelt moments. The crew’s journey isn’t just about finding treasure; it’s about self-discovery, camaraderie, and learning to live with one’s past. The series features a vibrant, colorful universe filled with space pirates, bounty hunters, and even magic-infused gunfights. Every episode feels like a new adventure, with high stakes and plenty of surprises.

Produced by Sunrise, the animation still holds up remarkably well, with dynamic action sequences and inventive spaceship designs. Its official rating of 7.9 on MyAnimeList reflects its cult classic status, as fans continue to cherish its charm and energy.

If you’re looking for an anime that feels like the lovechild of Cowboy Bebop and Treasure Planet, Outlaw Star is your ticket to a thrilling ride across the stars.

8: The Irresponsible Captain Tylor (1993–1994)

Space doesn’t always have to be serious, and The Irresponsible Captain Tylor proves just that. This satirical space opera combines humor, wit, and a surprising dose of heart to tell the story of one of the most unconventional captains in anime history.

Justy Ueki Tylor is a young man with seemingly no ambition or direction in life. Through sheer luck—or perhaps divine intervention—he ends up as the captain of the United Planets Space Force cruiser Soyokaze. Despite his carefree attitude and apparent incompetence, Tylor somehow manages to lead his mismatched crew through dangerous encounters with the Raalgon Empire, often stumbling his way into miraculous victories.

What makes this anime special is its balance of comedy and deeper philosophical questions. Is Tylor a fool, or is he a genius who operates on a level beyond conventional understanding? The show keeps you guessing while delivering plenty of laughs and moments of genuine emotion.

With its charmingly retro animation and lighthearted tone, The Irresponsible Captain Tylor is a breath of fresh air in a genre often filled with high-stakes drama. Its official rating of 7.8 on MyAnimeList reflects its appeal to fans of both comedy and sci-fi. Think of it as the anime equivalent of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy—quirky, clever, and utterly unforgettable.

9: Knights of Sidonia (2014–2015)

For fans of darker, more intense space anime, Knights of Sidonia offers a dystopian thrill ride filled with suspense, action, and jaw-dropping visuals. Based on Tsutomu Nihei’s manga, this series takes the classic “humans versus aliens” trope and turns it into an existential battle for survival.

Set in the distant future, the story follows Nagate Tanikaze, a young pilot aboard the spaceship Sidonia, humanity’s last refuge after Earth’s destruction by the alien Gauna. As a member of the elite Guardians, Nagate must fight to protect the ship and its inhabitants from these relentless, shape-shifting enemies.

What sets Knights of Sidonia apart is its haunting atmosphere and unique visual style. The series uses 3D animation, which may take some getting used to, but it complements the eerie, otherworldly tone of the story. The ship’s grimy corridors, the cold vacuum of space, and the grotesque designs of the Gauna all contribute to an immersive experience.

With themes of survival, genetic engineering, and what it means to be human, this anime offers plenty to ponder between its intense battles. Holding an official rating of 7.7 on MyAnimeList, Knights of Sidonia is a gripping watch for fans of serious, high-stakes sci-fi.

10: Macross (Super Dimension Fortress Macross) (1982–1983)

Rounding out our list is one of the most iconic franchises in anime history, Macross. Known in the West as part of the Robotech series, this legendary space opera combines epic mecha battles, a love triangle, and music that can literally change the course of wars.

The story begins when a massive alien spaceship crash-lands on Earth. Humanity reverse-engineers the technology, creating powerful mechas called Valkyries. When the alien Zentradi come to retrieve their lost ship, humanity must fight to survive. At the center of the story are Hikaru Ichijo, a young fighter pilot; Lynn Minmay, a rising pop star; and Misa Hayase, a determined officer. Their intertwined relationships drive the emotional core of the series.

What makes Macross so unique is its focus on music as a weapon and a universal language. Lynn Minmay’s songs play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between humans and Zentradi, adding a layer of emotional depth to the thrilling action sequences.

With its groundbreaking animation and a timeless story, Macross set the standard for the mecha genre. Its official rating of 8.0 on MyAnimeList speaks to its enduring legacy, and its sequels, such as Macross Frontier, have only expanded on its rich universe.

Macross is the quintessential space anime—a perfect blend of action, romance, and music that has influenced countless series in its wake.

Conclusion

Space anime is a genre that invites us to dream beyond the stars, explore uncharted worlds, and confront questions about humanity’s place in the universe. From the jazzy vibes of Cowboy Bebop to the political intrigue of Legend of the Galactic Heroes, these shows prove that space is more than just a setting—it’s a canvas for the most profound and exhilarating stories anime has to offer.

Each anime on this list brings something unique to the table: Macross harmonizes epic battles with the power of music, Knights of Sidonia delivers a chilling tale of survival in a hostile universe, and Outlaw Star captures the spirit of adventure we all crave. Whether you’re a fan of high-octane action, heartfelt character arcs, or thought-provoking themes, there’s a space anime here for you.

So, what are you waiting for? Gear up, grab some snacks, and prepare to lose yourself in these intergalactic journeys. These aren’t just must-watch anime—they’re experiences that will leave a lasting mark on your imagination.