The Beast of Space

"The Beast of Space" by F. E. Hardart is a science fiction story set in the expanse beyond Earth. Nat Starrett, a space prospector, finds himself on a dangerous mission to Asteroid Moira after receiving a desperate call for help. He soon learns the asteroid is home to a monstrous, intelligent lifeform with the power to lure humans using irresistible music and light. Imprisoned in the monster's lair is a young girl, and Nat, with his telepathic spacehound companion, Digger, bravely ventures to rescue her. Together, they face the asteroid monster's sinister sensory globes and discover the creature's horrifying purpose: to feast on human flesh. Nat uses his wits to turn the monster's own resources against it, employing illegally mined zirconia to defeat the beast and secure the girl's freedom. The story ends with their daring escape, promising even more thrilling adventures amid the stars.