Vampires of Space

"Vampires of Space" by Sewell Peaslee Wright is a science fiction novella published in the early 20th century, specifically in the 1930s. The narrative follows Commander John Hanson as he recounts his terrifying encounter with mysterious entities known as the Electites that inhabit space. The story captures the essence of space exploration and the unknown dangers that come with it, highlighting a thrilling adventure in a vast, uncharted universe. The plot centers on Commander Hanson and his ship, the "Ertak", which is sent on a mission to investigate the disappearance of two passenger ships in a relatively unused area of space. During their journey, Hanson and his crew encounter the Electites—creatures that appear as crescent-shaped entities glowing with a reddish light. As these creatures begin to attack the ship, feeding off its metal hull, the crew must devise a plan to combat this unique threat. Led by the ingenuity of the young officer Hendricks, they create a makeshift weapon using a spray of acidulated water to destroy the Electites and ultimately save themselves and their ship from destruction. The story combines elements of suspense, adventure, and exploration, showcasing the challenges faced in uncharted territories of space.