IS another world.

An American TV crew anxious to find out about life on a space colony have turned their cameras on Bermuda.

Why? Because the Island has all the right galactic ingredients ... it's remote, isolated, and dependent on imports and satellite technology.

And it also gets wrapped up in such subjects as Independence! "If we built space colonies, Bermuda would be the closest comparison on earth,'' explained producer Mr. Jim Rapsas.

Mr. Rapsas works for the USA Network cable television programme, "Inside Space'' -- the only science fact show on the Sci-Fi Channel.

He has flown here with co-producer Ms Jessica Hanlon, and videographer Mr.

Chris Calarco.

"Comparing Bermuda to a space colony is quite a unique angle,'' said Mr.

Rapsas.

"Colonies would discuss subjects like Independence, and way of life would be similar in terms of remoteness and isolation.

"We are also interested in and how technology keeps the Island in touch with rest of world, through satellite and the Internet.'' The New York-based crew, who leave on Tuesday, plan to film as much of the Island as possible during their week-long visit.

They have already spent time at the Bermuda Biological Station for Research, talking to researcher Dr. Norman Nelson.

The Bio Station's use of satellites for checking the ocean, marine life, and the earth's climate, have been of particular interest.

"Basically we are interested in the relation between the oceans and the atmosphere,'' said Mr. Rapsas.

He added the crew had also been out with the Bio Station's research ship Weatherbird , taking shots.

The crew also intend interviewing Minister of Technology and Information John Barritt, Tourism Department's manager of public relations Mr. Charles Webbe, and ex-Tourism Minister Mr. C.V. (Jim) Woolridge.

A businessman would also be interviewed about how the Island relies on imports.

Mr. Rapsas said the programme would be a good chance to showcase the beauty of Bermuda.

"We love the Island, and one of the reasons we came here was because it is such a beautiful and exciting location. We thought it would be a great place to show.

"So far we've only been in the St. George's end, visiting the Bio Station and the caves at Grotto Bay, but we are also going to do some shooting in Hamilton.'' Mr. Rapsas said the programme on Bermuda would probably air early next year.