Roger Manning (left), using a model of a rocket cruiser, assists Astro (center, played by Al Makrim) and Tom Corbett in reviewing their studies at Space Academy.

Actor Al Markim, who played the role of Astro, the Venusian friend of Tom Corbett, Space Cadet, died November 24 at the age of 88.

Space Cadet aired in the early days of television from 1950 to 1955, and was broadcast over the years on four different networks (CBS, ABC, NBC, DuMont)

Markim also had a bit part in “The Night America Trembled” (1957), Studio One in Hollywood‘s account of Orson Welles’ “War of the Worlds” radio show. The TV episode was notable for its cast of young actors who later became famous, among them Edward Asner, Vincent Gardenia, James Coburn, Warren Beatty, Warren Oates, and John Astin.