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M314-P3 Mission Status Update: T164/82/04:
We have advanced further into the M314 solar system, have passed P7 and are approaching P6. The deceleration sails have been deployed and speed decreased to PV1. The T103 mission has shown possible useful resources to be found on several P6 moons. Sensors have been set and a scout probe sent. The research team is also analyzing the unnatural object (UN1) that we encountered at the rims of the solar system. As you know, the discovery of the UN1 is what prompted our automated ship systems to wake us prematurely from stasis. It seems to be some kind of probe, and is believed to originate from P3, so paramount to our mission.
Furthermore, I am currently adapting the P3 tactical approach plan. I await any new data (sensor or otherwise), for consideration by T//12 (preferably sooner) from all departments. As always, diligence is imperative.
Ska, Strategy and Security Department
Ska to Science Department: T//04:
H’or, what’s the progress on that possible storage medium of the UN1 that you mentioned? How soon do you think we can read it?
Oesc, Any new sensor data yet on P3? No matter how seemingly unimportant. I feel under informed and it’s quite urgent!
Oesc to Ska: T//04:
We sent a scout probe ahead to orbit P5. It is programmed to collect and send data from P5, P4 as well as P3. It will definitely give us a better picture of what we can expect, but it won’t arrive there until T//14. I’m sending you a data sheet with current long range sensor readings, but I’m afraid it will be inconclusive compared to what we already know from the T103 mission.
However, we are currently analyzing the data from P6, and it looks very exciting! I’ll send out a report as soon as we know more. Very interesting news indeed!
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The ship is surprisingly small, considering its inter-stellar purpose and the size of its inhabitants. Smaller, anyway, than the solar sails that are spreading out from the bow. Yes, ship is an accurate description – elongated and sleek. The scientists on board like to joke about the use of aerodynamics in the vacuum of space. They mock those huge, totally impractical windows and the intricate artistic details that are covering the walls – form follows function was not the interior designer’s architectural philosophy. But after centuries of space travel, they have learned of the importance of psychology, of wanting to feel at home, especially with long-term missions like this one. The windows are large for a reason: designed to capture even the most dim light emitted by the surrounding stars. Not that that’s necessary – isn’t that what the photon-chargers are for? The builders even covered the floors in the habitational section with soil from home, as if they could tell the difference from the synthetic one. The sculptured reliefs on the walls are important to stimulate the sensory organs on the limbs of the plant-like crew. Some might argue that using depictions of the home world, Tahw, for some of those carvings wasn’t the best idea – it makes them homesick. Science is cool and all, but what can they find that beats Tahw – green and luscious, vast oceans (not as vast as the ones from their destination though), moderate temperatures, three picturesque moons,...? On the other hand, who signs up for this kind of expedition? Explorers, who get all excited about anything new. Scientists, who can philosophize all day about biological principles, astronomical abnormalities and, I don’t know, the spin of quarks? Oesc, the young scientist responsible for data collection, is definitely one of those. Do they really need (what she likes to call) psychological bullshit to be happy? Well, I guess they didn’t want to take any chances, because happy is what you want in a confined space like that. Sadness smells horrible!
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M314-P6 Report: T164/82/05:
New Info! Important!
Sensors have shown a small object (approximately 2asm) seemingly foreign to the planet’s system. P6 has a large number of moons (up to 62) of various sizes as well as a dense ring system (see report T164/81/53 on P6).
This particular object (now labeled: M314-UN2,) however, is interesting and different for several reasons: Although orbiting the planet, the orientation of that orbit is very different from the other satellites. That is especially irregular considering the small size of the object. Furthermore, the orbit diameter was stable until it suddenly started decreasing and the UN2 finally crashed into the planet (or rather, was swallowed by the gaseous surface).
Preliminary readings show a makeup of a variety of metals, alloys, and other materials that suggest a non-natural source (hence the label as UN). Perhaps most intriguing is that this composition is very resemblant of Object M314-UN1 that had us woken prematurely from stasis (for details of that composition please consult reports T164/81/84-93 on UN1). Moreover (and we’re still analyzing the data on this), there was indication of emissions in form of radio waves coming from the object before it crashed. We can’t determine the direction yet, but the UN1 had a similar transmission device. Unfortunately, we can assume that the UN2 was destroyed. Probes were sent ahead to P6 to see if we can locate any debris, but we are not very optimistic.
A detailed report including data sheets to follow shortly. In any case, this is yet another observation that seems to confirm our theories about P3. I put up for discussion: Should we continue on to P3 right away, or should we first spend some time at P6 to investigate further, as initially planned?
Oesc, Science department, Data Division
H’or to Ska: T//05:
You will be glad to hear that we are making headway on the UN1. Like I said last time, we initially thought that the memory device was only meant to store collected data – that the object was some sort of probe. But we are now convinced that at least one of those discs shows images from the source world (that we assume to be M314-P3). We finally figured out the method that they used – more primitive than thought – so it shouldn’t take us much longer to decipher. 2R, 3 at most.
T’hem to all departments: T164/82/05:
In light of new information, and a subsequent debate request by the data division, I’m calling in a general meeting for all department heads and other relevant personnel. We will convene in 0.1R in meeting room 2. Please prepare any information that can contribute to the debate.
T’hem, Mission Head
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“Thank you, Oesc, for the update. This indeed sounds very intriguing.” T’hem, let’s call her the boss, reads the room. Well, room is probably the wrong word – it’s a hall, more like. As the fifth largest in the ship, it comfortably fits the seven beings. “Well, some of you aren’t convinced”, she smells doubt. She herself, of course, has learned to suppress emissions. As the seven-limber of the group, she has to remain impartial throughout the debate.
“I don’t know – it just sounds far-fetched. Like we just want to read something into anything.” Ska, ever the skeptic, moves the info pad from one limb to another, but that doesn’t seem to change his conclusions. He sets the pad down next to the other two, and proceeds to align them perfectly.
“Why are you always so cynical?” Oesc was clearly hoping for a different reaction.
“I’m not being cynical. I just don’t want to get our hopes up, just to be disappointed again. Like with S29 or M207 - “
“That was different!”
“How was that different?”
“Well, on S29 we knew they wouldn’t develop – I mean, a non-rotating planet with such a thin habitable belt... of course they hunted the place to death. And the M207 predatory species was aggressive, and showed no signs of interest in sustainability whatsoever. But this one did – and P3 is so similar to our planet. And are you really ignoring the UN1?”
“I think you misunderstand me. I’m not saying there hasn’t been sentient, even highly intelligent development, but a successful predator will inevitably destroy it’s habitat before reaching that level of development.”
“We don’t know that.”
“Well, in our experience anyway. But that’s why we’re here, isn’t it. To find out. I’m just being cautious, pointing out the questions. Are we really sure the UN1 came from P3? And also, there were several sentient species on P3. Yes, admittedly PIS1 were the most advanced. Just saying. And the UN2 you so optimistically already labeled, did it really exist? Sensor readings with so small an object can be deceiving.”
“The data is clear!” Oesc was so excited when the sensor data came in. How can they smother it like that? “You’ll change your mind when you see my detailed report.”
“Maybe. I mean, I hope so.” Ska didn’t mean to quench Oesc’s enthusiasm. He was just playing devil’s advocate. That’s his role. Oesc is young, hasn’t even grown her fifth limb yet. Enthusiasm is her role.
T’hem decides to intervene before the room starts to reek. “Ok, these probabilities have been discussed extensively since the T103 discovery. We can continue on that later, when we know more. Meanwhile, Oesc, you asked to debate whether to continue the trip or to investigate P6. Decision parameters?”
“Well, what it really comes down to is time. Are we willing to lose time on the approach, but be more prepared? How much information are we really hoping to gain from staying? I mean, it was our initial plan to investigate the gas planet moons further. I know that plan was postponed for the return trip after the UN1 surprise. But it might still be worth it.”
“You said you sent a probe? Can’t we just wait for those results before deciding?” Tnsso, storage supervisor, is not the most determined individual. “I mean, depending on that – even if it doesn’t find any debris, it might find some minerals and stuff that we need. We’re not experiencing any significant shortages yet though. So if the probe finds nothing useful, I’d prefer we pass the gas planets and move on to where we know we can fill up. Closer to the star anyway. ...Although I do feel like the water is getting rancid.”
“That’s nonsense! The recycler is state of the art. Perfect filters and negligible net loss. The water is as pure as when we left.” H’or, who leads the research team, takes pride in the scientific and engineering accomplishments of their peoples. He hopes to contribute one day. “By the way, we have almost deciphered the memory storage of the UN1. Not sure we can get it done before we reach P6, but it will definitely give us more insight – more than any debris from a similar object would, anyway.”
“I still don’t get why we can’t just wait for the readings from that probe?” Tnsso is not the smartest one of the group either...
“We have to decide before we reach the probe, because once we go into orbit we will have lost the opportunity to use the planet’s gravity to slingshot us on. That would triple our travel time, even if we then decide to leave again right away. Basic science.” Potav, the elder who pilots their vessel, is consciously trying to emit more annoyance than he really feels. He wants to convey intolerance with ignorance and naiveté, but honestly, he does find it in some way refreshing – almost envies the young for it.
“How much time, exactly, would we lose?” T’hem, who in her wisdom can’t be fooled, would smile if she had a mouth.
“I’d have to calculate the exact amount, but I’d say 63-65R”
“Hmm.. That’s quite a bit. And how long until we reach P6?”
“At current speed, 1.8.R”
“H’or said the research team needs 2-3 – would it pay off to slow down a bit, just to buy them that little more time?” Ska regrets that question the minute he poses it. He has enough background in science to know it’s rarely quite that simple. “Or is that a stupid question?”
“It’s not stupid.” Potav’s scheme worked, maybe too well, “Again, I’d have to calculate that to be sure. But, since the planet moves on, slowing down would change our approach angle, so maybe force us into orbit first. So probably no, it wouldn’t pay off. The real question here is whether it makes a difference. Does whatever that memory storage shows have anything to do with P6. Or are other factors more important?”
T’hem can sense confusion rising among the group – or rather, decisiveness weakening. “Ok, I’d like an opinion from each department, from their point of view. H’or, since Potav asked about the UN1’s relevance – how about you start us off.”
“Well, the fact that an unnatural object in space, albeit primitive, exists, is already proof enough of highly developed intelligent life. The recovered memory data will be testament to that, and is highly anticipated. That it originates from P3 is pretty much a given. But concerning P6, it doesn’t really make a difference. Whatever debris we find of a UN2 will be interesting, but unnecessary to the mission. Honestly I’m torn. As a scientist, my instinct wants to explore every possible detail. I regret not having had a chance to take a closer look at the P7 ring system, and the one from P6 seems to be even more impressive. And some of those moons, the largest one particularly, I definitely want to explore further. What difference does the time loss make? On the other hand, that same scientist in me is impatient to get to P3. Such an important discovery. Potav is correct, other factors are more important. We don’t know how much time we have. We can continue to collect data from sensors and from the probe at our fly-by.”
“Thank you. Tsm, from the medical point of view, what effect would an additional time loss have? After all, that was one reason for changing our plans for the gas planets.”
Tsm, the ship’s doctor, is, as usual, ripped from her thoughts. Well, actually, it just seems that way. She is pensive and quiet, seemingly absent-minded, yet always ready, fully present and alert when necessary. A walking – well, if walking were how they moved – oxymoron. “Yes, the premature waking from stasis had an effect in that we were further from the M314 star. And we lost even more time for the retrieval of the UN1. But now that we are getting closer, that effect is decreasing. Physically speaking, anyway – it’s still there, but not particularly harmful. Psychologically, though, the prolongation of the trip in this darkness is taking its toll. That too is getting better, and new discoveries always help, but at the cost of prolonging even more... my recommendation stands to continue on.”
“Ok. Ska. I’m assuming you would prefer a slower approach?”
“Well, theoretically, yes. The more we know about what to expect, and the more prepared we are, the better. But, we won’t learn much more that’s mission relevant from P6. The memory data from UN1 will soon give us more insight in terms of hostility of the species, and we will still have ample time to come up with a good tactical approach. Let’s assume the worst case scenario, that they are hostile and have detected us already. In that case I don’t want to give them the time to come up with a plan of their own. Even though they are most likely technologically inferior, it is always advisory to be quick yet cautious. And then there is the factor that H’or mentioned – we don’t know how much time we have. It is imperative that we are the first to reach them. A sentient predator would be a powerful ally, and if anyone hostile discovers them, it will be easy to sway them onto that path. We might already be too late to implant a peaceful mindset onto the PIS1. Another thing, are we still planning on slowing down after P5? We can always decide to add time there if we need it.”
“You seem convinced that they are hostile.”
“They’re a predatory species. But, no, that’s just the worst case scenario. A probable one.”
“Like I said, that’s a discussion for another day. In fact, I will call in a meeting after the UN1 is deciphered. But while we’re on the subject, L’bis, you’ve been unusually quiet, should I even ask what you prefer?”
“Yeah, no – I just want to finally see them!” L’bis, the biology expert, is usually quite the chatterbox. That was a lie. They don’t talk. This is all transcribed from other forms of communication (pheromones, tapping...). Duh! On that note, do they even have an optical sense? Maybe I should have written “perceive” rather than “see”. Nah, that would make my job too difficult. After all, you don’t need eyes to see.
“Don’t we all! ...Tnsso, would we be sufficiently stocked for any scenario?”
“Our incredibly efficient filter and otherwise systems are functioning with negligible net loss.” Those conceited scientists think they’re so smug. “But yeah, more light would be great. The photon-chargers are starting to fill up, so we’re ok, but faster would be better. Carbon is also lower, but still plenty. A surplus of 500R for the two-way trip was calculated in, so we should be ok with either way.”
“Good. Potav, any addition to your assessment?”
“I’ll run the exact calculations through the computer, then I can say more. You never know, I might have missed some details to factor in.”
“Knowing you, I doubt that. Oesc, since you prompted the debate... your opinion?”
“So, like I said, we aren’t optimistic about any debris. The UN2 probably disintegrated completely. And, even if not, any information obtainable from the UN2 will be inconsequential. We can also assume that we will find more unnatural objects the closer we get. If they are interested in other planets in their solar system and advanced enough to send a probe all the way to P6 and further, they for sure will have sent others to closer planets. I am willing to bet we’ll find something on P4 – a rocky planet sure to peak their interest. So, objectively speaking, we should continue on. But I personally have a huge interest in that moon that H’or mentioned. The largest one of P6. An atmosphere, signs of water – don’t get me started! But that’s my personal scientific curiosity, and shouldn’t have us deviate from our plans. ...I guess.”
T’hem can sense the disappointment. It’s a difficult decision. “Is that probe you sent also taking samples?”
“Yes.”
“Will it then follow us after it’s done?”
“It will, yes. It probably won’t catch up with us, though, until we’re almost at our destination – that is, assuming we slow down before the asteroid belt as planned. But it is programmed to continuously send updates. Same with the P5 scout probe we sent out. That one we can actually haul back in before that, soon after the fly-by. I’m really looking forward to that data. We should receive the first readings at T//14!” There it is again, that excitement. It’s written all over Oesc’s non-existent face.
That was T’hem’s intention with those questions. She knew the answers beforehand, of course. “Alright, I think I have all the information that I need. I will let you know the final decision in ...1.8, was it? Let me know before that if anything changes. Meeting is adjourned. We will reconvene after the UN1 decipher report. Thank you.”