Thompson's Cat

Thompson's Cat is a science fiction short story by Robert Moore Williams, published in September 1952 in Planet Stories. The narrative follows Captain Thompson and his crew as they explore an abandoned planet, only to confront a lethal infection that threatens their survival. The story highlights themes of human vulnerability and unexpected heroism, particularly through the actions of Buster, the ship's cat, who plays a crucial role in identifying the source of the deadly virus. This tale reflects the era's fascination with space exploration and the unknown.