Astro was an Armenian con-man who pretended to be a palmist and fortune teller, but was drawn into solving crimes and using his skills as a detective. He took his con all the way with a jeweled turban, flowing silk robes, silver-mounted water-pipe, and even a pet white lizard. He was assisted in investigations by the lovely Valeska Wynne who gathered evidence to make him seem clairvoyant. He also did a good deal of investigating on his own, as he had a brilliant mind and deep understanding of the sciences. He aided local police, led by Captain McGraw, in investigations.