It seems that science fiction is crossing over into drama this season with “Outer Range” and now “Night Sky.” This is a strange story of space and time travel, all anchored in modern day Illinois.

Irene and Franklin (Sissy Spacek and J.K. Simmons, respectively) are seniors living with a secret. They have a mysterious chamber buried in their backyard. They discovered it years earlier and quickly discovered that the chamber transports them to a seemingly deserted planet. This mystery is entrancing to Irene, but Franklin is getting tired of it. He feels it is overtaking his beloved wife’s attention and emotions.

Then, one day, a stranger comes through the chamber. Jude (Chai Hansen) seems to know more about it than he is saying and, little by little, secrets are revealed. Irene is eventually taken with him and Franklin decides enough is enough. He eventually lets their new neighbor Byron (Adam Bartley) in on the secret.

During this time, a young woman and her daughter — in Argentina — become involved in the story. They are the caretakers of a similar chamber on their own family ranch.

So, while all of these stories play out, viewers are taken deeper and deeper into the mystery. What are these chambers doing around the planet? What does it all mean? What is the significance of the other planet? I don’t have all of the answers yet, but I’m more than intrigued and ready to go back for more.

This series is captivating to people who dream of time travel and/or exploring other worlds. It is a mystery that slowly unfolds — although it can be a little slow getting to the meat of the story. Just what in the heck is that chamber all about, any way?

With “Lost” and “Manifest” standing out as popular sci-fi dramas of the 21st century, “Night Sky” is another addition to the list. With the stellar cast (no pun intended), it weaves together family dynamics with interpersonal relationships and a mystery that will leave viewers clamoring for more.

“Night Sky” premieres on Prime Video on Friday, May 20.

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