Now, impose the condition that the Mars episode must come **before** Earth’s.

Sun, 03 May 2026 16:14:09 +0000

# Why the Mars Episode Must Come Before Earth’s: A Must-Watch Order for Sci-Fi Fans If you’re a dedicated fan of The Expanse, you’ve likely wondered: in what order should the key episodes be watched? Many assume starting with Earth’s, the first season bolstered by a strong chronological setup. But what if we shifted the deck—what if the Mars episode must come before Earth’s? Imposing this condition isn’t just a preference; it aligns perfectly with the series’ narrative progression and deepens your immersion in one of sci-fi’s most compelling stories. ## The Story Foundation: Mars First Adds Critical Context The episodes set on Mars serve as the foundational chapter of The Expanse timeline. Right after Earth’s, Mars represents humanity’s bold leap into the outer solar system—a frontier filled with political tension, resource scarcity, and alien threats. Watching Earth’s before Mars creates vital continuity: you see how Earth’s geopolitical forces set the stage for Mars’ struggles, making the red planet’s storyline richer and more grounded.