Syfy is returning to event television with Ascension, a six-hour space thriller from Smallville writer Philip Levens.

The first move in the cable channel's effort to recapture its glory days, miniseries begins in 1963, with the launch by the U.S. government of a covert space mission sending hundreds of people on a century-long  voyage aboard the starship Ascension to settle a new world. Nearly 50 years into the trip, as they approach the point of no return, the murder of a young woman causes the passengers to question the true nature of their mission.

"Syfy is more committed than ever to bringing to life epic event television," Syfy President David Howe said in a statement. "We have a rich history in this arena, from Steven Spielberg’s Taken to the highly acclaimed mini that launched the Battlestar Galactica series, to reimagined takes on classic tales such as Alice and Tin Man. In keeping with that grand tradition, we are delighted to bring this thrilling, provocative and intelligent event to our fans later this year."

Ascension is set to premiere in November, with Levens serving as executive producer and showrunner.