"Irina: The Vampire Cosmonaut" is set in an alternate Cold War-era world where two superpowers, the Republic of Zirnitra and the United Kingdom of Arnack, compete in a space race to achieve dominance. The story centers on Lev Leps, a young cosmonaut candidate from Zirnitra, and Irina Luminesk, a vampire chosen as a test subject for the space program due to her enhanced physical abilities and resilience. Vampires in this world are marginalized and feared, often used as tools by the government. Despite this, Irina harbors a deep fascination with space and dreams of reaching the stars.

Lev is assigned to work with Irina as her handler, tasked with preparing her for spaceflight. Initially, their relationship is strained due to societal prejudices and Irina's mistrust of humans. However, as they train together, Lev begins to see Irina as more than just a test subject, recognizing her intelligence, determination, and humanity. Their bond deepens as they face numerous challenges, including political intrigue, scientific hurdles, and the harsh realities of the space program. The series explores themes of discrimination, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams against societal and institutional barriers.

The narrative unfolds through their training, experiments, and eventual mission to space, highlighting the sacrifices and risks involved in their journey. Supporting characters, such as Mikhail Yashin, Lev's superior and mentor, and Anya Simonyan, a fellow cosmonaut candidate, add depth to the story by providing contrasting perspectives on the space race and the treatment of vampires. The series balances its historical and political backdrop with personal moments, emphasizing the emotional and ethical dilemmas faced by the characters.

"Irina: The Vampire Cosmonaut" combines elements of science fiction, historical drama, and character-driven storytelling to create a compelling narrative about perseverance and the human spirit. The interplay between Lev and Irina serves as the emotional core of the series, driving the plot forward while addressing broader themes of equality and the cost of progress.