Autons

Autons are a fictional alien lifeform in the Doctor Who universe. They consist of living plastic beings animated by the Nestene Consciousness, a hive mind that can project itself through a network of plastic matter. Autons inhabit everyday plastic objects and take humanlike forms in order to operate within human society, often appearing as shop window mannequins or other benign props until activated.

Origin and nature: The Nestene Consciousness is a sentient entity that controls vast quantities of plastic across space. Through a telepathic or psychic link, it directs the Autons to carry out invasion or reconnaissance missions. Autons themselves have limited independent will and act as soldiers or agents for the Nestene program, executing orders with a focus on infiltration and disruption.

Capabilities and weaknesses: Autons can reanimate inanimate plastic items, granting them the appearance and motion of living beings. They can be armed and coordinated as a fighting force, capable of rapid movement and manipulation of their surroundings. They are vulnerable to damage, particularly heat and fire, which can disrupt or destroy their forms. Their disguise can be breached by careful observation or direct combat.

Notable appearances and impact: The Autons first appeared in the classic serials, notably Spearhead from Space (1970) and Terror of the Autons (1971), establishing them as enduring adversaries for the Doctor and UNIT. They have been revisited in later New Who stories, underscoring themes of consumer culture and the fragility of everyday objects when animated by alien control.

See also: Nestene Consciousness, Doctor Who, UNIT.