Under the Milky Way
Helene McKenzie resides in the NSW regional town of Coonabarabran and is an avid astronomer just like her father was, working in the observatory that overlooks her small town. When a nearby and much newer observatory threatens its funding and research grants, Helene's observatory is in danger of being shut down. Helene actively fights its closure and along with her team of misfit colleagues, she attempts to rally her small home town behind her. Plagued by a corrupt local council and hindered by a lazy town mayor, Helene's prospects of saving her observatory are slim. When disaster strikes on the eve of a big breakthrough, Helene may get the chance to save more than just her beloved observatory.
- 2016-2016
- 1 season
- Comedy
Helene McKenzie resides in the NSW regional town of Coonabarabran and is an avid astronomer just like her father was, working in the observatory that overlooks her small town. When a nearby and much newer observatory threatens its funding and research grants, Helene's observatory is in danger of being shut down. Helene actively fights its closure and along with her team of misfit colleagues, she attempts to rally her small home town behind her. Plagued by a corrupt local council and hindered by a lazy town mayor, Helene's prospects of saving her observatory are slim. When disaster strikes on the eve of a big breakthrough, Helene may get the chance to save more than just her beloved observatory.
Season 1 Episode Guide
6 Episodes 2016
Episode 1
1,000 Light Years Thick
The Siding Spring Observatory is in danger of being shut down and resident astronomer Helene McKenzie is the only thing standing in the way. Battling an inept local council and hindered by a ragtag bunch of colleagues, her fight is set to be an uphill one.
Episode 2
Welcome to Leithybarabran
A rock legend arrives in town to perform at a benefit organised by Mayor Barnham to help distract the town from Siding Springs' closure. The opening of competing observatory "Red Skies" brings Mike Finch to town, who clashes with Helene instantly. Helene's affections continue to grow for interstate colleague Simon Redding.
Episode 3
Finding a Needle in a Really Small Haystack
When speed dating comes to Coonabarabran, Helene against her better judgment, joins Steve at the event. Still unable to get her mind off the closure of Siding Springs, an unexpected encounter with her rival, Mike Finch, leads to a late night confrontation and a surprisingly good night.
Episode 4
The Trouble with Harry
As the townsfolk of Coonabarabran prepare for the big fancy dress party, Steve is approached to betray his friends at Siding Spring Observatory and he struggles with the decision. Meanwhile, Helene and Mike's relationship blossoms as Simon regrets not making his feelings known sooner.
Episode 5
Chasing Ghosts
With Helene (Lee McClenaghan) and Simon (Mark Gambino) down in Tasmania in search of Harry's discovery, Bill (Tom McCathie), Steve (Matt Stewart) and Halle (Sophie Cusworth) are back in Coonabarabran doing what they can to try to catch Leslie (Kirsty Snowden) and Mike (Bryce Hardy) red-handed. But they're all running out of time...and with a visit from the Minister of Industry on the cards, things are looking grim.
Episode 6
Saving Siding Spring
With the Skymapper in disrepair and the Minister on Siding Spring's doorstep, all looks lost for the team at Siding Spring Observatory.