Do you love stories about space travel, robots, time travel, aliens, and big future ideas? Sci-fi podcasts are perfect for that! They let you listen while you walk, drive, clean, or relax. The sounds and voices make you feel like you are in another world.
In 2026, there are many amazing sci-fi podcasts. Some are short stories read by great narrators. Others are full audio dramas with actors, music, and sound effects — like a movie in your ears. This article shares the best ones to spark your imagination. These shows explore futuristic worlds, ask big questions about life, and take you on exciting adventures.
Whether you want funny sci-fi, scary stories, deep thoughts, or action in space, there is something here for you. Let’s start!
Why Sci-Fi Podcasts Are So Special
Podcasts are free or low-cost, and you can find them on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or other apps. Sci-fi ones stand out because:
- They build whole worlds with just sound — no pictures needed.
- Many are ongoing in 2026, with new episodes coming.
- They mix fun with smart ideas about technology, space, AI, and what it means to be human.
- You can start any episode — no need to listen from the first one (but some series are better in order).
Now, here are my top picks for the best sci-fi podcasts right now.
1. Welcome to Night Vale
This is one of the most famous sci-fi podcasts ever. It started years ago and is still going strong in 2026.
The show is like a radio broadcast from a small desert town called Night Vale. The host, Cecil, reads “community news” in a calm voice. But the news is very strange: glowing clouds, secret police, angels who are not allowed to be named, time travel in the dog park, and more.
It mixes horror, comedy, mystery, and sci-fi. You laugh one minute, then feel chills the next. The world feels real and weird at the same time.
Why listen? It sparks imagination with endless strange ideas. Perfect if you like Twilight Zone-style stories.
Many fans say it is the best way to start sci-fi podcasts. Episodes are short (20-30 minutes), and new ones come twice a month.
2. Midnight Burger
If you want funny, smart, and deep sci-fi, try Midnight Burger.
It follows a group of people who run a diner that travels through time and space. The diner appears in different places and times — like a restaurant that moves across the universe.
The characters are great: a cook who knows everything about food and philosophy, a waitress with secrets, and more. They meet aliens, fix time problems, and talk about big ideas like life, death, and love.
The writing is clever. It feels like Doctor Who mixed with The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, but with heart. Sound design is top-notch — you hear spaceships, strange creatures, and diner noises.
In 2026, it is still a fan favorite. Episodes are around 45 minutes. Great for long walks or drives.
3. Escape Pod
Escape Pod is the original short sci-fi story podcast. It has been running for many years and releases new stories every week in 2026.
Each episode is a short science fiction story (15-40 minutes) read by professional narrators. The stories come from top sci-fi magazines and authors.
You get all kinds: space adventures, AI gone wrong, future Earth problems, alien contact, robots with feelings, and more. Some are funny, some sad, some scary.
Why it’s great: You don’t need to follow a story arc. Listen to one episode and enjoy. It introduces you to new writers and ideas. Perfect for discovering fresh futuristic worlds.
If you like reading sci-fi books but want audio, this is the best place.
4. Clarkesworld Magazine (Podcast)
Clarkesworld is a famous sci-fi magazine. Their podcast reads the best new stories every month.
The narrators are excellent. Stories are modern and thoughtful — about climate change in space, human-AI love, virtual worlds, exploration of distant planets, and what happens when technology changes us.
Episodes are short to medium length. In 2026, Clarkesworld keeps winning awards for quality.
Listen if you want smart, beautiful sci-fi that makes you think about the real future.
5. EOS 10
This is a funny sci-fi sitcom in audio form.
It follows a doctor on a space station who treats aliens and humans. There is comedy from bad patients, space politics, romance, and silly problems.
It feels like a hospital show in space — light, happy, and full of jokes. Great voice acting and sound effects.
Many people say it’s the perfect “feel-good” sci-fi podcast. Episodes are 20-40 minutes. Good for beginners or when you want laughs.
6. Dust (Stories from Dust)
Dust is a collection of high-quality sci-fi audio stories. They use big actors (like famous movie stars) to narrate or act.
Stories are immersive — about AI, space colonies, virtual reality, time loops, and human survival.
The production is like a movie: great music, effects, and acting. Some are short, some longer series.
In recent years, Dust has become very popular for polished, emotional sci-fi. Perfect if you like Hollywood-level sound.
7. The Oyster
This is a newer narrated sci-fi story that fans love in 2026.
It is about a mysterious object or being that could save (or end) humanity. The story builds slowly with deep world-building.
It is binge-ready — you can listen to many episodes fast. Great for mystery and big ideas in space.
Fans call it a “hidden gem” for imagination and suspense.
8. Moonbase Theta, Out
A quiet, emotional sci-fi drama.
It is set in 2098 on a moon base that is closing. The last workers send audio messages to Earth. They talk about loneliness, love, memories, and saying goodbye.
It is queer-positive and very human. No big action — just feelings and small sci-fi touches.
Listen if you want sci-fi that touches your heart. Short episodes, easy to finish.
9. Wolf 359 (Classic but Still Great)
Even in 2026, people recommend Wolf 359.
It is a full audio drama about a crew on a space station orbiting a star. The commander is funny and strict, the communications officer is sarcastic, and crazy things happen.
It mixes comedy, adventure, mystery, and danger. Sound design is amazing.
Many say it’s one of the best space sci-fi podcasts ever. Seasons build a big story.
10. More Great Ones to Explore
Here are a few more that deserve attention:
- Red Valley — Mystery and sci-fi on Mars with great twists.
- From Now — Time travel and future predictions with smart writing.
- Project Bläckfisk — Dramatized sci-fi mystery, binge-ready.
- The Program audio series — Anthology of short futuristic stories.
- Cast of Wonders — Young adult sci-fi and fantasy shorts, fun and hopeful.
These are rising in 2026 lists.
How to Choose Your First Sci-Fi Podcast
Not sure where to start? Try this:
- Want funny and light? Start with Midnight Burger or EOS 10.
- Want weird and creative? Welcome to Night Vale.
- Want short stories? Escape Pod or Clarkesworld.
- Want emotional and deep? Moonbase Theta, Out.
- Want movie-like production? Dust or The Oyster.
Most are free. Search the name on your podcast app.
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Final Thoughts: Let Sci-Fi Take You Away
Sci-fi podcasts open doors to infinite worlds. They let your mind see stars, aliens, robots, and futures we may live in one day. In a busy world, they are an easy way to escape and dream.
Pick one today. Put on headphones, close your eyes, and travel to a new place. Your imagination will thank you.
About the Author
Mary Correa is a content writer with 9 years of experience. She loves writing about luxury villas and travel. Her articles are easy to read and full of exciting ideas. Mary helps readers discover amazing places to visit and stay. When she’s not writing, she enjoys exploring new destinations.
