Jimmy Quinn is a young astronomer working at the Arecibo Radio Telescope in Arecibo Puerto Rico. He is underpaid and overqualified for his position there until he discovers a radio transmission from an alien planet. His discovery leads to the mission to the planet Rakhat. Due to his size, the natives on the planet believe him to be the elder of the group and before their leader D.W. dies, he appoints Jimmy to head the group. On Rakhat, he falls in love and weds Sofia Mendes. They are expecting a child when they are killed.