Posted by Captain Iphigenia Henao (Captain) in Sim: Approaching an Uncharted Planet [Open]

Posted by Cadet Deshara Toussaint (Scientist) in Sim: Approaching an Uncharted Planet [Open]

Posted by Lieutenant Dayner Ruuk (Containment Architect) in Sim: Approaching an Uncharted Planet [Open]
Posted by… suppressed (18) by the Post Ghost! 👻
In the vast expanse of the cosmos, the crew stationed in the Combat Information Center (CIC) held their breaths as the Leviathan embarked on its trajectory toward an uncharted Class M planet. This celestial body had been discovered by Lieutenant Drang and Cadet Toussaint during their research in the science lab, a revelation that had stirred the curiosity of even the Captain, setting the stage for a daring expedition.

With an exquisite blend of orange and blue, the planet’s vibrant colors were rivaled only by the enigma that shrouded it. As the Leviathan drew closer to its destination and seamlessly settled into a stable orbit, the dedicated science team within the CIC diligently scanned for any telltale signs of life. Simultaneously, the communications team diligently sifted through the various channels, seeking out faint frequencies or radio emissions that might provide insights. Meanwhile, the rest of the crew found themselves spellbound by the alluring mystery that lay ahead, concealed beneath the surface of the enigmatic world.

MJ, Narrator

Iphigenia approached the viewscreen, gazing at the recently uncovered planet. “It’s breathtaking, a burst of colors unlike any I’ve seen recently,” she remarked. She shifted her attention to the science officer stationed at his console. “I assume the blue signifies water, while the orange might indicate soil oxidation. Is it potentially habitable for oxygen-breathing life forms? Have we detected any signs of life?” she inquired.

Henao, CO

Deshara glanced up from her console, eyes filled with a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. “It’s indeed a captivating sight, Captain. The blue does suggest the presence of water, and the orange could indicate a hospitable environment for plant life. As for signs of life, we haven’t detected any direct signals or emissions yet. However, our sensors are still scanning, and we’re analyzing the data as it comes in. It’s a bit early to draw conclusions, but this planet certainly holds the potential for supporting life as we know it.”

Toussaint, Science

Iphigenia nodded, her gaze never leaving the mesmerizing planet. “Continue monitoring closely, Toussaint. Let’s not jump to conclusions, but also don’t let any subtle signals slip through our grasp. This could be a historic discovery.”

Henao, CO

Adam turned around in his swivel chair, facing the central console of the CIC “Whilst main sensors are focused on the planet itself, may I suggest sending out probes to monitor the other planets in the system” He added in his usual calm manner.

CIO

Iphigenia cast a curious glance at Adam, her interest aroused. “That’s a wise suggestion, Lieutenant Commander. We should gather comprehensive data on this entire system. However, before we proceed, I have a question for you: Are there any peculiar characteristics or phenomena associated with this type of planet? What potential threats should we keep in mind as we explore it?”

“Cadet Toussaint, please run a scan of this solar system and report back the number of planets and their properties.”

She shifted her focus to the engineering team. “Prepare a probe based on Toussaint’s data, ensuring it’s well-equipped to handle any unexpected challenges we may encounter.”

Henao, CO

While the crews were busy with their stations, Meylan casually walked to the Main Engineering. He’ve just sent Ensign Little back to one of the Computer Core nearby because it was his turn shift. As the Lt was standing and facing a two-man console, while making sure everything looked running properly, he was ready to be briefed by the CE or the CIC. If anything he should know. The only thing missing for now, was probably his Popeye’s pipe. No fires or liquid was allowed in this place, not even him. He also wondered if Ruuk was awake; He had less idea about his thing after all.

Then the words echoed the air. Meylan acknowledged the message and let one of the fellow NE engineer with curly hair initiate the configuration.

He said to her. “How’s the data transfer link up?”

“5 by 5, Sir.” The NE replied after shaking her hair, “It would be a delay from science to our console, but it’s almost a live transmission. We can see what’s going on from the probe scan, too. Firstly,” She said with a pointing finger upward. “I’ll arrange for someone to prepare the probe.”

“Awesome,” James said with a smile. =^= CIC, Main Engineering. Standing by for data transfer. =^=

Toussaint gave a quick nod then swiftly moved to the science console, her fingers flew across the holographic interface. Her training in the Academy had prepared her for moments like this, the thrill of exploration and discovery in the vast expanse of space.

As she initiated the scan, the sensors sent out a network of energy waves, collecting data about the solar system. The console displayed a stream of information, and she meticulously analyzed it.
Her voice, calm and poised, resonated through the bridge as she reported back to the Captain. “Captain Henao, initial scan complete. I have some preliminary information, sir. This solar system has seven planets.” She looked at the information on the console as she contined speaking, “The fourth planet, our current orbit, exhibits signs of potential habitability. The second and third planets from the sun bear the harsh scars of rocky terrain, their surfaces marked by eons of cosmic activity. The planet nearest to the sun is a colossal gas giant twice the size.of Jupiter in the Sol system, its vastness dwarfing all others in this celestial neighborhood. Likewise, the fifth, sixth, and seventh planets in line are imposing gas giants, however they are not as big as the first one, their size similar to that of Neptune in the Sol system. I will provide more detailed data shortly and, as our probes launch Ill be able to learn even more.”

Toussaint, Science

After the data transfer was completed the Curly NE was astonished. “Are you receiving this?” She said to Meylan, “Are we going to discover some relatives?”

“You mean my never-knew-families-in-another-universe? Hell no.” Meylan smirked. “It appears that 2nd and 3rd are too close to the star, and that means…”

“Too hot for approaching, even by the probe.” The hairy curly smiled.

“Ture, but still water could be there. Or they won’t exist. Heat alone could destroy their existence.” He continued, “It’s not the priority, but I think it might dive into the giants. So extra protective coating for this time. We aren’t really here for their weather report. Even if so, scanning from above should be enough. Can you add imaging capability to the configuration? Data transmission frequency to extremely low, reserve power source, and black box to the rear?”

“On it, plus an extra thermal lens. Will tell the guy. Sir, why do you think those giants are bigger than the one closer to the Sol?” The NE asked.

“Very well, I rather not give a lecture here. Since you asked, think of a balloon. The closer it is, the bigger. Then think of these planets as a traveling ballon in different stages. The further they travel, the smaller they become without a heat source around. Anyway, let me know when our scout is ready.”

A few moments later, he said, =^= CIC, Main Engineering. All set, launching sequence in 3, 2, 1… Launching probe. =^=

“Velocity, sensors, bearing, fully functional, Sir.” The hairy NE said.

=^= Meylan to the CIC, you have the conn. Safe flight. =^=

James Meylan, Assisting CE

As the probe launched, Iphigenia watched the progress closely from the science consoles in the CIC. “After this mission I need to make a note to find a CSO.” She thought as she looked over Cadet Toussaint’s shoulder. Her eyes followed the holographic display, tracing the probe’s path through the solar system. It was a moment filled with anticipation and excitement, a step into the uncharted territory of the cosmos.

She turned to Meylan, acknowledging his diligent work. “Excellent job, Lieutenant. Keep us updated on any significant findings as the probe explores those gas giants. We’ll want to gather as much data as possible from this system.”

Then, addressing the entire bridge crew, she continued, “Remember, this mission is about exploration and discovery. Let’s maintain our focus as we explore deeper into this solar system. Science team”, she looked at Toussaint, “ensure you monitor the probe’s progress meticulously and provide real-time updates on any unusual readings or phenomena. Engineering, Lieutenant Meylan keep a close eye on the probe’s systems and be ready to make any adjustments if needed. This could be a treasure trove of scientific knowledge waiting to be uncovered, and we’re counting on your expertise to make it happen.”

Iphigenia Henao, CO

=^=Aye, Captain. Bon voyage. =^= The Lt smiled.

“You’ve heard the Captain, eyes on the instrument,” James said to the curly hairy. “How’s she doing?” He meant the probe.

“Crossing the 1st phase line, Sir.” The NE said. “System all green. What are we exactly looking for?”

“Unknowns, gas giants. They aren’t so pretty for vacances compared to the M class, but might interest us; Magnetic fields, weather, and composition of the terrain behind those atmospheres. We’ll let our ‘pilot’ decide where to go, and which one to go. Our job is to monitor and make the job easier. Clear?”

“Aye, Sir. She’s now approaching standard orbit. Relative velocity confirmed. Inertial navigation mode ready.” It was designed for traveling in harsh space without external references. In English, that means it doesn’t matter if the object has an emission or not, it can locate itself and take care of herself.

James thought about if Little was here. He served as a science officer and he might have some insights.

James Meylan, Assisting CE

Iphigenia observed the probe’s progress with curiosity.

Turning her attention back to Cadet Toussaint, she asked, “Cadet, keep a close eye on the probe’s telemetry. We’re looking for any anomalies or unexpected readings. This region of space might hold some surprises for us, and we need to be prepared for anything.”

She then glanced at James Meylan, “Lieutenant Meylan, would you happen to have any experience in the Science department? It would be great to have someone oversee Toussaint’s work since this is her first real mission.” She knew it was a long shot but James looked as if he was a jack of all trades.

Henao, CO

=^= No, Captain. But I do have someone in mind. I just sent him to the Computer Core. He’s served as a science officer a long time ago. I can just redirect him to you if you need. =^= James also wondered if she remembered the rare event in which she was one of the fellow engineers at that time.

He then said to the curly hairy NE, “Can you take Ensign Little’s position, temporarily?”

James Meylan, Assisting CE

Adam opened a small screen on his console, a copy of Cadet Toussaint’s panel watching her work as he monitored the signal from the probe. Whilst the rest of the CIC crew was looking for spatial anomalies and monitoring celestial bodies he was looking out for signs of any Starship traffic, potential warp signatures or signs of Spacefaring life.

CIO

“Cadet, remember to cross-reference any unusual readings with our database. We want to be thorough in our analysis,” she advised.

Henao, CO

The young cadet glanced at the readings, her brow furrowing. “Captain, I’m detecting some unusual fluctuations in the magnetic field readings of the planet we are orbiting. Its the only planet exuding such readings. They’re not consistent with what we’d expect in this region of space.”

Toussain, Science

As the turbo opened, Tom walked in and went to the scene. He, just like any crew who entered the CIC as an aider, gave a salute to the skipper in charge. “Interesting readings.” He said to Toussain, “Can you magnify… Yes, this chart from here to there. Is there any chance that the sensors were misled by the magnetic field?”

He hoped the cadet had checked this first, especially in the time of the unknown. The chart was an x-y axis, 2 dimensional as a default view. X was distance, and y was fluctuations, as she described. If sensors were affected by anything, the readings would show unusually large. Patterns as if those were artificially curved. In general, readings were supposed to be covered by noises, a zigzag line, for instance.

Ens Little, Eng

Iphigenia nodded at the input from Cadet Toussaint, her interest piqued. “Interesting, Cadet. Let’s see if we can rule out sensor interference. Ensign Little, please cross-check those magnetic field fluctuations with nearby readings from other sensors. We need to determine if this is an anomaly or something more. If these fluctuations are not due to sensor interference, I’d like your expertise in analyzing these patterns. Are there any known natural phenomena in this part of space that could explain such fluctuations?”

Henao, CO

“Aye, Captain,” Tom replied while standing at the right side of Toussaint’s station. He put his left hand on her chair and monitored the progress and reports. While she was doing her thing, he turned to the skipper. “Captain, from the chart, I see we’re orbiting at the fourth planet. If it is habitable and earth-like then, it may have a strong magnetic field. This works similarly to our ship’s shield system. Except this one is to protect itself from solar wind or other radiations. If we could maintain our distance from the planet or just adjust the sensor, I think we could minimize the magnetic interference. Then we should be able to see the readings clearly, Sir.”

Adam nodded at the orders, the Cadet wasn’t half bad at their job, he wasn’t yet convinced that she was Leviathan material but this was a good sign. He continued to watch as they worked.

CIO

Ruuk had heard the Leviathan was approaching a Uncharted Planet, so he had made his way up to the Bridge. He stepped out of the Turbolift and stood quietly at the back of the room. He was aware that some Captains didn’t like too many people on the bridge and the last thing he wanted to do was get in the way, but nevertheless he stood by, just in case he was needed.

Lieutenant Dayner Ruuk - Containment Architect

Toussaint could feel the collective gaze of the bridge crew fixated on her, their eyes heavy with anticipation. Her hand trembled slightly as she carried out Captain Henao’s precise orders. The delicate instruments before her required a surgeon’s touch.
Then, a sudden jolt of urgency coursed through the ship as the red alert sirens blared to life, bathing the bridge in an ominous crimson hue. All eyes instinctively turned to Toussaint, as if seeking an explanation for the unexpected disturbance. In that moment, her training and composure were put to the test.
Nervous but maintaining her focus, Toussaint swiftly silenced the wailing alarm with a tap of her fingers on the control panel. “Apologies, Captain, my hand slipped. I’m currently working on mitigating sensor interference in this region, and it seems I’ve stumbled upon a few glitches. Rest assured, I’ll inform you immediately if I detect any unusual activity or anomalies.”

Toussaint, Science

Witnessing the cadet’s performance, Tom whispered from her right and said, “Hey, no worries. I used to be in your shoes. I mean uniform.” He smiled and then glanced at the monitor above the console she was operating. Not so strangely, it brought a second of a flashback. He was at the training ship’s bridge remotely trying to reboot a system. The scenario seemed to be, too challenging to be true for midshipmans. Who would have thought he as a cadet, would have an opportunity to ‘hack’ a thing while crews and refugees on board were sort of, counting on him?

Ens Little, Eng

Iphigenia’s annoyance with the sudden red alert was evident. She shot a critical glance at Toussaint, her expression unyielding as she considered the cadet’s explanation. The young officer’s mistake was an unwelcome disruption in what should have been a smooth operation.
With a stern tone, Iphigenia addressed Toussaint, “Cadet Toussaint, the bridge is not the place for mistakes, especially a red alert. You must pay meticulous attention to detail in your work. Our missions often hinge on the accuracy of sensor readings and the promptness of your responses. I understand that you’re still learning, but there’s no room for error in this line of duty.”
Iphigenia shifted her gaze to Adam, a reminder to him about the conversation they had about the cadets aboard the ship. The question of whether Cadet Toussaint was truly ready for the responsibilities of the Leviathan weighed heavily on her mind. She couldn’t afford any shortcomings in her crew, and this although some would consider it minor, raised doubts. “Cadet, I suggest you review your procedures thoroughly and ensure this doesn’t happen again.”
She gave Ruuk a nod as he entered CIC.

Henao, CO