While working on a dig in Caramanga, South America, archaeologist Adam Strange was transported to the planet of Rann via the Zeta-Beam. He immediately befriended the people of Rann and took up a flight pack and raygun to assist them. While there, he also fell in love with a woman named Alanna.
When the Zeta Beam's teleportation effect wore off, Adam was returned to Earth. However, he was able to return to Rann by following a schedule of where the Zeta beam would next hit. He scheduled his archeological trips to coincide with the location and time. He also married Alanna.
It was initially believed that the Zeta Beam was used simply as a friendly communication between Rann and Earth. However, it was later hinted that Rann was searching for suitable mates from other planets as more and more of the Rann people were found to be sterile.
Adam met the JLA after helping them battle Kanjar-Ro, but declined their membership offer. He continued to act on both Earth and Rann, helping to improve relations among different planets.