Star of Panadur

"Star of Panadur" by Albert dePina and Henry Hasse is a science fiction novel written in the early 1940s. Set against the harsh, icy landscape of Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, the story revolves around two astronauts, Hugh Betancourt and Jim Brannigan, who find themselves marooned after a spaceship accident. As they struggle for survival, the narrative explores themes of morality, survival, and the discovery of intelligent life in a hostile environment. The plot unfolds as Hugh and Jim confront the dire situation of dwindling supplies and the desperate need for resources to repair their ship. When Jim captures a mysterious, alien creature known as a Panadur, tensions rise between the two men as they clash over what should be done with it. Hugh's instinct to preserve the creature leads to conflict, culminating in Jim attacking him out of greed. As the story progresses, Hugh discovers the extraordinary capabilities of the Panadurs and ultimately learns that they possess telepathic powers and can manipulate energy at an atomic level. In a startling turn, the Panadurs choose to save Hugh by transferring energy from Jim to him, thus sparing him while sealing Jim's fate. The novel concludes with Hugh having gained not only a precious alien jewel but also a profound understanding of life beyond Earth, emphasizing the interconnectedness of survival and morality.