Geldray, working for the government in building a starship, fears world destruction. So he privately plans to make the vessel a colonising project. Meanwhile, power-crazed Edward Smith intends to destroy all obstacles in his way - including Geldray, project Star and the politician Melgrath's reputation - in order to take over the government. Realising Smith's intentions, Geldray's last act is to launch the starship. Will the ship's crew succeed in escaping into space to find a new home amongst the stars?