The Far Side, the widely recognized comic strip by Gary Larson, often places its characters in precarious scenarios across a range of environments. From perilous jungles to the vast oceans, and even out into space—one of Larson’s favorite themes—these characters continually face various threats. Whether human or extraterrestrial, these figures navigate a universe full of whimsical dangers, often leading to humorous outcomes that resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.
Though the characters themselves might not appreciate their dire circumstances, fans of The Far Side find humor in the cosmic predicaments in which Larson immerses them, especially when they involve the challenges of space travel.
10 “Now Look Where the Earth Is!”
May 22nd, 1984
Getting lost while driving can lead to frustrating arguments over directions, but in The Far Side, a couple’s disagreement ends in the absurdity of ending up on the moon. As they drive through space, the couple discovers that their navigation mishap has landed them far beyond Earth’s atmosphere.
Facing the unknown void of space without a clue about how to return home amplifies their conflicts. The tension mounts as the woman urges Elroy, the driver, to swap seats to remedy their situation. This scenario showcases not only the humorous side of losing one’s way but the added layer of interpersonal strife in the face of cosmic calamity.
9 “Abducted by an Alien Circus Company”
Professor Doyle’s situation is unsettling to say the least: he has been captured by an alien circus company. This unexpected turn of events positions him not just as a captive, but as the center of entertainment where he must perform calculus equations for an audience of curious aliens.
Doyle’s mathematical prowess serves him well, yet he still faces pressure—prompted by a whip-brandishing alien ringleader eager for amusement. This comic evokes laughter while highlighting the absurdity of academia meeting the bizarre circus of extraterrestrial life.
8 “Alien Student Drivers”
July 13th, 1986
On Earth, student drivers provide their fair share of anxiety on the roads, but Larson takes this concept to another level with alien student drivers. These inexperienced extraterrestrials navigate their UFO in a chaotic fashion, leaving a trail of destruction around Earth, as evidenced by the debris scattered about their spacecraft.
As they zoom away, the panic on their green faces is palpable, illustrating how learning to drive—even in the cosmos—can present serious hazards. This humorous scenario effectively showcases the universal fears associated with simultaneous learning and recklessness.
7 “Picking Up Litter”
June 12th, 1988
A colossal alien engages in the noble act of cleaning up litter on the moon. However, his well-meaning intentions take a turn for the disastrous as he mistakes the lunar module for mere trash, threatening any potential occupants within.
This scene not only humorously underscores the hazards that accompany space travel but also paints a picture of the unexpected consequences that arise from even the gentlest giant attempting to lend a helping hand.
6 “USA”
1980
Two astronauts witness a uniquely humorous scenario as an alien expresses an infatuation for their spacecraft’s landing gear. The alien’s “heart eyes”indicate a curious attraction between two entities that bear an uncanny resemblance.
While astronauts face many legitimate fears in space, romantic feelings from a local can hardly be expected. As the storyline unfolds, the astronauts might find themselves in a tricky situation if their new admirer refuses to let go of their precious ship.
5 “Picnic”
April 17th, 1982
In The Far Side’s playful take on picnicking in space, we see a lunar module unwittingly ruin an alien’s delightful meal. The overwhelming smoke and flames overshadow what should have been a peaceful gathering, highlighting the unintentional havoc caused by Earth’s exploratory endeavors.
This ironic twist on spatial dangers flips the stereotype of aliens posing threats to humans, instead portraying the negligence of human explorers as the primary source of peril amidst the cosmos.
4 “Astronaut Tree”
November 16th, 1985
Upon landing on an unfamiliar planet, an astronaut encounters an unsettling sight: an alien indulging in a meal of astronauts, plucked right off a tree! This bizarre diet presents a comical yet dire predicament for our explorer, exemplifying the unexpected dangers that come with exploring new worlds.
The astronaut’s misfortune humorously underscores the risks of venturing into the unknown, serving as a reminder that not everything in space behaves according to Earthly expectations.
3 “Feldman Must Be Freaking Out”
April 26th, 1993
In an ironic twist, a team of astronauts successfully makes contact with a multi-armed species, leaving one astronaut, Feldman, in sheer panic. His arachnophobia is evident as he faces an alien that bears a striking resemblance to his worst fears, causing a humorous—a little dark, but relatable—identification with the character’s plight.
This comic cleverly illustrates the uncanny and often frightening realities of space encounters by playing on deeply rooted human fears, creating both humor and a moment of reflection.
2 “We Waited and Waited…”
June 29th, 1981
The Far Side often revises historical events with a comedic twist, and the moon landing is no exception. In a hilarious retelling, Astronaut Henry realizes he’s been left behind by his impatient fellow astronauts who, despite waiting for a while, decide they have waited enough.
This comic serves to remind us of both the anxieties of space travel and the absurdity of impatience in dire circumstances, leaving Henry stranded and alone on the lunar surface without resources.
1 “Those Are My Sunglasses You’re Wearing”
September 7th, 1994
In one of the most dramatic scenarios, two astronauts find themselves helplessly drawn into the sun’s gravitational pull. As they face imminent doom, one astronaut seizes the moment to confront his companion about the theft of his sunglasses, which the other is currently wearing.
This scenario not only illustrates the grave dangers of space travel but also cleverly showcases human nature—prioritizing grievances even in the face of life-threatening situations. The comic’s juxtaposition of peril and petty disputes offers a unique perspective on what it means to navigate adversity.