Before Star Wars and Star Trek: In a Galaxy Far, Far Away... From a Time Long, Long Ago

 Lucian of Samosata's A True Story (2nd century AD) is a satirical work that mocks extravagant ancient tales. The story follows Lucian and his companions as they sail past the Pillars of Heracles, get caught in a whirlwind, and are transported to the Moon. There, they participate in an interplanetary war between the Moon and the Sun, encountering strange hybrid creatures. After returning to Earth, they are swallowed by a giant whale, discovering a hidden civilization. The work is often considered an early example of science fiction, blending fantasy, satire, and parody, while explicitly declaring its contents as a lie.