Which C.S. Lewis science-fiction trilogy begins with Out of the Silent Planet?

The C.S. Lewis science-fiction trilogy that begins with Out of the Silent Planet is The Space Trilogy. The series follows Dr. Elwin Ransom through encounters involving Earth, Mars, Venus, and a cosmic struggle over humanity’s future.

The trilogy’s three novels are Out of the Silent Planet, Perelandra, and That Hideous Strength. The first was published in 1938, followed by Perelandra in 1943 and That Hideous Strength in 1945.

Lewis used the form of planetary romance to explore ideas about language, technology, scientific power, morality, and spiritual authority. Although the books are science fiction, they do not follow the conventions of later space opera centered on futuristic technology and interstellar warfare.

Readers sometimes call the series the Ransom Trilogy because Elwin Ransom is its central character. “The Space Trilogy” is the standard collective title, while “Ransom Trilogy” is a descriptive alternative used in some discussions.