Exploring the Rich Lore of TARDISes in Doctor Who

When discussing the iconic TARDIS in the long-running British science fiction series Doctor Who, many are familiar with the Type 40 TARDIS, the model famously piloted by Doctors Jon Pertwee and Tom Baker. However, there is a vast array of other TARDIS models that contribute to the rich mythology and lore of the show. This article delves into the different types and variants of TARDISes beyond the Type 40, providing a comprehensive overview for fans of the series.

Types of TARDISes in Doctor Who

While many TARDIS models are mentioned in the main series, some are only referenced in non-canonical materials or expanded universes. Here is a list and brief description of some of the different types of TARDISes that have been mentioned:

Type 1 TARDIS

The Type 1 was created by the elders of ancient Gallifrey and was a prototype model. It was poorly designed, dangerous to operate, and difficult to start. Some of these TARDISes had minds of their own, with a history of escaping and roaming the universe. This model is mentioned as an early prototype and is significant in understanding the development of TARDIS technology.

Type 40 TARDIS

The most well-known model, the Type 40 TARDIS was used by Doctors Jon Pertwee and Tom Baker. It is a highly iconic vessel in the Doctor Who universe, with approximately 305 units made. Most or all were decommissioned by the time the Doctor’s adventures began, and they are considered antiques by other Time Lords. The Doctor’s TARDIS is a Mk. III, known for its stability and reliability despite being an older model.

Type 50 TARDIS

More advanced than the Type 40, it is known for its sentient properties, as the First Doctor owned one before his own Type 40.

Type 70 TARDIS

This was the modern type of TARDIS during the time of the Time Lady Rodan. It could break through a temporal distortion grid and was voice-controlled. It was owned by multiple renegades and could pause its materialization, though not for long.

Type 102 TARDIS

A notable first in TARDIS creation, this model was sentient and humanoid. It was created when the Doctor attached a remote receiver to his companion Compassion, and she evolved into a TARDIS due to warped biodata from the receiver. This was the first TARDIS that wasn’t created through traditional means.

Other Notable TARDISes

While specific details of these models are limited, they are part of the extensive lore of TARDISes in the Doctor Who universe:

Chameleon TARDIS

One of the most intriguing features of some TARDISes is the ability to change its exterior appearance, known as the chameleon circuit. This feature was famously malfunctioning in the classic series, leading to the Doctor’s TARDIS looking more like a police box or a simple room in a college dorm.

Warp TARDIS

Specialized TARDISes designed for faster-than-light travel are mentioned in expanded universe materials. These models are advanced and capable of performing tasks such as time manipulation and space travel.

TARDISes Used by Other Time Lords

While the standard TARDIS model is iconic, other Time Lords have their own unique TARDISes. For example, the War Doctor’s TARDIS was a unique model, used for his specific time period and challenges.

TARDIS-like Time Vessels

Some other species or factions have created their own time-traveling vessels that resemble TARDISes but may have different capabilities or designs. These vessels are often fascinating in their own right, contributing to the richness of the Doctor Who universe.

While the Type 40 TARDIS is the most iconic due to its association with the Doctor, these other models and variants contribute to the vast wealth of lore and history that makes Doctor Who such a beloved and complex show.

The specific model of TARDIS mentioned in the Shada episode, referred to as Professor Chronitis’s TARDIS, is a unique case where the TARDIS has disguised itself as a set of rooms as a college flat. The exterior shell was disguised as a wooden door in a frame, demonstrating the versatility and adaptability of these time machines.

Doctor Who fans will appreciate the intricate details and numerous iterations of the TARDIS, each with its own backstory and unique features. These models not only add depth to the show’s lore but also provide endless opportunities for storytelling and exploration within the timeless world of time and space.