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While many know of the Prime Directive and the ethos of non-interference it so proudly contains, fewer outside the rarefied air of Starfleet Command know of the Temporal Prime Directive. This guideline, much like the directive on which it’s formed, has the laudable goal of preventing the unknowable disastrous effects that come from the misuse of time travel. Unfortunately, much like the Prime Directive, it is regularly ignored by Starfleet officers in the field for a variety of nebulous reasons, usually with the justification that their actions were unavoidable and taken with enormous care. Classified as many of these mission reports are, even the few public records that exist paint a damning picture of a Fleet where expediency and self-interest govern decision making over that of the safety of the timeline. Famous examples from the earlier, ungoverned days of Starfleet are the stuff of many amusing conversations, but recent events in our more enlightened time suggest that the recklessness of those early five-year mission commanders are still far more ingrained than Starfleet PR would like you to believe. Late last year, the USS Veritas provided another data point in the ongoing conversation about the dangers of time travel. After an unfortunate run-in with the Borg Collective, an unknown event flung them six centuries into our collective past to do who knows what damage, then returned to not quite their present time. The only long-term consequences of this gallivanting through the timeline? A stern reprimand from that famously toothless organization, the Department of Temporal Affairs, and a merry round of handshakes and cavalier backslaps among the ship’s crew and officers. Several officers spoke to this reporter on the topic, but they provided little meaningful reassurance that their commanding officers took the awesome responsibility of time travel seriously. “I’m positive that my past and present Commanders know what they’re doing when it comes to temporal anomalies and the effects they have. They are very knowledgeable of course or else they wouldn’t be in charge!” Lieutenant German Galven expressed this chillingly reductionist logic, who claims to be a quantum physicist and temporal researcher. He continued, “Temporal psychosis is a genuine concern, however limited exposure to the stresses of time travel so far seem to have no lasting effects on individual crew members.” When asked about the consequences beyond the immediate crew, Galven dismissed this author’s concerns as paranoia and fear-mongering. Not so, says honoured quantum physicist Dr Gulliver Drex. “The result could be as mild as an inconvenience or as severe as the ship being ripped apart for no apparent reason.” In this writer’s humble opinion, there is a need for a renewed call for safety and reason when it comes to matters quantum, and I for one will forward my concerns directly to the Federation Counsels Scientific Oversight committee. If you share my concerns, not just for yourselves and your families but for the whole of time itself, I strongly encourage you to reach out to your representatives and tell them that there is no more time for these dangerously old-fashioned attitudes. The post Ripples in the Pond – The Consequences of Time Travel appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

ASHALLA, BAJOR – Several former Starfleet science officers living on Volan III during the Dominion War were arrested yesterday under suspicion of collaboration with occupying forces. Home to a successful Federation colony within the Demilitarised Zone, and third inhabited planet in the system, Volan III was the centre of much controversy during the Dominion War. It is also known to history as the birthplace of the Maquis. Several Starfleet officers found themselves stationed there under the command of Lieutenant Commander Calvin Hudson, amid the formation of the Maquis and contention involving the ladarium mining sluice embedded in the mountains. Following the handover of the colony from the United Federation of Planets to the Cardassian Union, Cardassian Central Command ordered the armament of their stationed citizens in the wake of a suspected Starfleet plot to take the colony by force in 2370, hampered by the involvement of the Maquis resistance. The inhabitants of Volan III endured significant hardships applied by the Cardassian Union, including the sabotage of replicators, leading to several deaths. Stationed on the colony during the turbulence, the arrested Starfleet scientists remained there in the years after the war, retiring from their prestigious careers to support the local community. However, records recently unsealed from the Bajoran Central Archives include Cardassian records of suspected Starfleet collaborators — those with the means and access to deploy war secrets and fleet movements to the Dominion during the occupation. “We have uncovered what we believe to be concealed communications between the Starfleet element stationed on Volan III, and the Obsidian Order — the Union’s former intelligence agency,” explained Yama Toreni, Director of Acquisitions for the Bajoran Central Archives. “Bajoran authorities are moving to uncover further evidence while we continue our search into the archive. For now, there are continued implications of involvement from Starfleet on a level we didn’t expect.” Director Yama refused to elaborate further on the suspected content of the communications, and has deferred all further inquiry to the Bajoran government. In a surprising move, Vedek Elian, who voiced concerns over the leaking of the recently uncovered involvement of Iba Sizo — restaurateur and owner of the popular Bajoran-Terran chain known as The Orb of Taste — issued a statement to the wider press regarding the suspected involvement of the Starfleet scientists. “The assumptions and allegations made toward Starfleet involvement during the troubled era for the colony is worrisome,” the statement led with. “While the Bajoran authorities continue their investigation, we implore Starfleet and the Federation to take some accountability for the actions of their former officers, and involve themselves in the process early.” Archivists are certain there are more records to uncover as they continue their cataloguing efforts. The post Former Starfleet scientists arrested in Cardassian record controversy appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

ILLYR SYSTEM — Illyr, near the neutral zone with the Klingon Empire, has experienced several spatial phenomena over the last few weeks. Most notable of these was the appearance of sudden Tachyon traces located somewhere west of their world. The USS Kuipers, a Nova-class starship, received orders to divert an earlier DNA sampling mission to Antica in order to investigate Illyr. Captain Nicolas Falcon, a known expert of the Sub-Particle Model, is elated with the task. “We at Starfleet are always willing to lend a hand investigating what the members of the Federation cannot do on themselves.” He spoke to the Illyr Ambassador. Starfleet expects the Kuipers mission to last for at least six months, with multiple objectives in the Illyr system. Aside from the Tachyon field, there are also indications of Tetryon bursts and an impending collapse of nebular matter in the Archanis Sector. Multiple scientists of Starfleet institutions have expressed interest in collaborating with the Kuipers to evaluate the data. Dr T’Raaru, a leading scientist into energy theory, has already transferred to the Kuipers to act as a consultant science chief. The post USS Kuipers begins mission in Illyr System appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

ANDORIA – Environmental scientists are concerned as the frozen moon Andoria, homeworld of the Andorian people, is experiencing a heatwave longer and hotter than anything on record. The heatwave began almost four months ago, yet experts say it shows no signs of cooling any time soon. Throughout the past months, temperatures at the equator are consistently rising to over 20°C. During a hot summer, temperatures along the equator of Andoria often climb to a marginal degree above zero on the Celsius scale. “Andoria does have heatwaves from time to time,” said Tharsaohl ch’Kavert, an Andorian Environmental Scientist. “Typically, they happen every few years. However, there are none like this in living memory. We have consulted with Clan historians, who recalled tales of longer-lasting heatwaves from before our written records began.” Concerns have also been raised by the Aenar living beneath the Issa Ice Cap at the Northern Pole of Andoria. With temperatures nearing zero, they fear that should they pass above the level of freezing, melting ice could cause structural damage to their subterranean colony as the ice shifts and foundations are weakened. More on this story as it develops. The post Experts troubled as Andoria suffers unprecedented heatwave appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

MARS, SOL SYSTEM — A first contact mission recently took place while the USS Van Gogh carried out a research mission to an uninhabited planet in the Wil’low system. The planet, designated as Nokavis in official Starfleet records, was considered to be uninhabited due to serious solar radiation impact upon the surface. Reports from various Starfleet, Klingon and Romulan vessels were unable to scan the surface of the planet through the radioactivity. Whilst recently travelling through the system, the helmsman of the Van Gogh picked up a faint warp signature emanating from the far side of the planet. The Tellarite Commander, Captain Privk, ordered the ship to follow, maintaining a cautionary distance. After approaching slowly, scans confirmed the vessel was warp-capable. Privk ordered the ship into diplomatic conditions and started to prepare for a first contact scenario. Maintaining a far enough distance as to not be detected, the Van Gogh waited until a time in which the first warp flight of the species was conducted. As the ship returned and entered orbit around Nokavis once more, Privik hailed them and initiated First Contact. While details are sparse, we do know they call themselves the N’nek and evolved from organisms thriving on solar radiation, making them unique among the species of the galaxy. They permitted scans of Nokavis from the surface and limited sociological information exchange, providing interesting scientific data. Chief Medical Officer Lieutenant K’Mera provided the press with limited physiological data — humanoid, with ridges descending their arms and covered in skeletal armour, indentations on their foreheads moving down to the edge of their noses, and where the pupil would be in a small pinhole to render the intense light. The N’nek have agreed to signal the Federation when they are ready to engage in further diplomatic relations and gave hopes for an amicable future. The post First Contact with the N’Nek reported by USS Van Gogh appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

DELUVIA IV — The week-long biennial New Horizons Conference is fast approaching, celebrating and showcasing the best of science and technology for a sustainable Starfleet future, addressing innovative discoveries and obstacles in all fields of expeditionary intellect. The popular tropical haven within the Deluvia system in the Tyrellian Sector won out amongst competitors yet again for the best facilities available to host the interchange, and all required attendees converging on the resort in the coming weeks. They dispatched invitations earlier in the year, allowing fleets to divert to the famous location if so desired. As in previous years, the conference is at the pinnacle and vanguard of technological evolution and encourages all scientific intrigue from across the Federation to take part. Explorations of science have included editorials from our FNS reporters, including the “Genetic engineering in the Federation: a time for reflection” where J’mai Osen questioned the aversion to genetic engineering in the Federation scientific community. Last conference, Director Sorllaith of the Kaferia Institute of Natural Science garnered much support presenting her theories of mass extinction and migration from Tau Ceti Prime to their home of Kohath-Seredi. Readers can enjoy learning more about the last conference here. “The aim of the conference one more is to provide an opportunity for all our brilliant scientists, engineers, students and researchers to share their incredible approaches, groundbreaking ideas and leading knowledge with one another,” explained Doctor Ginasa, Saurian Director of the New Horizons Conference Commission and a seasoned Research Director based at Starfleet Academy. “Networking across our galactic spectrum is an important aspect for all and allows us to honour the challenges faced, as well as discuss solutions utilised in our respective celestial fields.” Amongst those presenting at the Conference are leading scientists and dignitaries representing the Selkie species, who led the endeavour to colonise the Class-M planet and unary star system. We have described their multitude of underwater settlements as a scientist’s dreamworld, with many of the new settlements dedicated to pursuing medicine and experimental development. Working in tandem with the N’Vea Hospital — an expansive medical facility specialising in trauma and rehabilitation — the colonists are increasingly looking for revolutionary treatments and progressive methods of care. The post Building a sustainable future for Starfleet at the biennial New Horizons Conference appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

THE ALPHA ISLES, ALPHA QUADRANT – After the recent discovery of Iconian “Gate” technology on Isles planet Theta 122, the region has become a new hotbed for independent treasure hunters and archaeological expeditions. While the planet’s Atlas Base has yet to address the sudden influx of “wildcat operations” — unsanctioned or unaffiliated outfits that operate with their own capital and infrastructure — sources from other Isles installations have expressed concern regarding the new arrivals. Discovered just weeks ago by Federation patrol ship USS Arrow, the ship’s crew neutralised the Iconian “Gates”, thought to be thousands of years old. Next, the same crew made them ready for transport to nearby Starbase 821, where the device will undergo further study and then shipped either back to the Sol system or to one of many awaiting museums currently in negotiations for the rare intact pieces. But while Starfleet Command has taken extra precautions to ensure their travel, Administrator for Forward Refit Station-1 (more colloquially known to the area as RAFT-ONE) Myssa T’Vaz warns it won’t be what leaves the area that should be the cause for concern. It’s what its discovery will bring in. “Look, I am all for the forwarding of archaeological understanding,” said the steely Admin, currently serving her first term. “But we’ve already seen at least two groups of cowboy “adventurers” blunder into the system seeking their fortunes and glories. They only found blood and unfortunately, it was their own.” Backing up the administrator’s claims are scattered reports of a student collective attempting to set up a dig site on a small moon, yet a local Chalnoth hunting party battered the group and news of a small “territory dispute”, recently fought in the interior of RAFT-ONE. Two “teams” of sex treasure hunters had picked up the same rumour about another “hot spot” in sector space and apparently came to blows between who had the stronger claim. “This is just the start of it,” warns T’Vaz. “Every day more and more tinpanners cross the stars and think they are gonna find the next “hot site”. It ain’t gonna end well for anybody, I guarantee it.” Atlas Base administration declined multiple offers for comment throughout the process of this reporting but offered a terse statement that they were working tightly with the patrol ship Arrow’s staffing and Starfleet Command to stay abreast of developments and provide support and resources as allowed. More on this situation as it develops. The post Rumours of Iconian Artifacts spark archaeological “Gold Rush” in the Alpha Isles appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

SELARIS SPACE STATION, TRINITY SECTOR — A civilian space station is on the edge of collapse after a program runs amok in the computer core. Receiving an SOS from the Selaris Space Station, a major shipping waypoint in the Trinity Sector, Starfleet dispatched the USS Lê Thánh Tông to provide assistance. On reaching the station, the Lê Thánh Tông discovered the station and ships attached to it had been taken over by a virus spawning holographic three-feet tall yellow rats with a jagged tail that spit out holographic plasma. The computer created large quantities of the creatures, preventing the central core from doing anything and eventually swallowing all system power. “It looked to be some kids’ program that had turned into a virus, potentially by a mistake,” Lt Wytia Lynatt, the Bolian Chief Engineer of the Lê Thánh Tông, said when approached by the FNS. “We fixed it, and while we were at it, fixed several dodgy systems on the station. Above and beyond, I always say.” Investigations by station staff are ongoing to determine the origin point of this virus and working on improvements to the computer network to prevent a repeat. Chief Administrative Officer of the Selaris Space Station put out a statement. “Thanks to the aid from the Starfleet Core of Engineers, we are ready for commerce, and even better than before. Investigations suggest that this was a simple mistake in coding and not caught, so we are not pursuing criminal charges.” The post Space Station Overrun With Yellow Rats, Leading To Failing Life Support appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

MARS – Investigators from Starfleet Science division onboard the USS Moniy, led by Commander Andy Dreyfuss, have discovered several undecipherable writings in a cavern near the north pole of Mars. The science team was sent to the red planet to investigate reports of several strange readings in the region. However, Cmdr. Dreyfuss stumbled upon an undiscovered cavern some distance west of the planet’s magnetic north pole. Inside, the ship’s crew discovered several markings of an unknown alien language. “This is such an amazing discovery,” exclaims Ens. Trialy. “I have never seen anything like this before. Maybe these findings will show us who set foot on Mars prior then we did.” Other teams of multiple species, including Vulcans, Tellarites and Betazoids, have reported in, to investigate the markings, which are already stirring up linguistic groups at Starfleet Science. Earlier investigations into deciphering the runes were unsuccessful. However, other science teams reported mild readings of chroniton emissions, which indicated signs of temporal distortion. Whether temporal meddling was involved, is still under investigation. The post USS Moniy Finds Ancient Alien Runes On Mars appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

Named for the region of space in which it was discovered and its devil-like appearance, Romanus spatium satanum is a species of solanogen-based life form native to the mysterious realms of subspace. While evidence indicates many Federation and Romulan vessels have encountered the creature in the past, the Starfleet exploratory vessel USS Gorkon (NCC-82293) made the first recorded encounter recently with an unusual specimen of Romanus spatium satanum. The Gorkon barely escaped from the devilfish’s clutches when the creature attempted to drain power from the starship’s EPS reserves. Due to the hasty departure of the Gorkon from the Roman Expanse, they recovered little sensor data on the creature. However, when they combined collected data with a repository of advanced alien knowledge given to the crew of the Gorkon by the Seraphim, an intelligent subspace species, a much more comprehensive picture formed. According to the Seraphim, Romanus spatium satanum is based upon the subspace element solanogen in the same way most biological life found in our universe is based upon the element carbon. This is a trend researchers have found in the few biological subspace lifeforms discovered. The creature itself is massive, over 2.2 kilometers at its widest dimension. The devilfish looks similar in appearance to the Terran aquatic starfish, but biologically, scientists classify the creature closer to crustaceans like the Risan barnacle. However, no direct comparison will be adequate for a species developed in a completely separate space-time from our own. The specimen encountered by the Gorkon had five distinct “arms,” again like a starfish, each arm measuring an average of 700 meters and the longest measuring at over 1,100 meters. Scientists theorize other individuals of the species could have fewer or many more arms. Ensign Seneca Wilde is an exobiologist and astrophysicist serving as the lead scientist on the team studying the Seraphim repository at the time. She believes the creature the Gorkon encountered seems to be an aberrant specimen. “From what we can tell — from cellular deformities in certain epidermal lymph nodes — these things are normally much smaller, say, about a meter arm-to-arm,” she said. This begs the question: why is this specimen so large? From the information provided by the Seraphim, the pulsar cluster at the center of the Expanse created a specific tetryonic/photon resonance in the surrounding space/subspace, which allowed the devilfish to travel between space-time fissures. “It could cross from subspace into our space practically at will,” said Wilde. “Now these devilfish, as far as we know, get energy from a process similar to photosynthesis, only with tetryons: tetrysynthesis, if you will. This devilfish found a way into our space-time — which is full of photonic light instead of tetryonic light — and started converting photons into its tetrysynthesis process.” Photons, while travelling much slower than tetryons, have much more energy per particle than tetryons. Once the devilfish began using photons this way, it couldn’t stop. “It started growing larger because of all the fresh energy, but its larger size now required even more energy, which made it even larger,” explained Wilde. “It was a vicious circle, and it’s why the devilfish needed to keep feeding off the electroplasmatic energy from starships. Once it got to a large enough size, photonic light wasn’t good enough for it so it needed more concentrated energy, and it got that from the ships that got trapped in the nebula because of the subspace fissures.” The devilfish encountered by the Gorkon also had the terrifying ability to radiate high-energy, electroplasmatic shockwaves from emitter cells in its epidermal layers. Wilde said these shockwaves are normally mild in others of Romanus spatium satanum, but this specimen — because of its extreme size and use of high-energy photons in its tetrysynthesis process — could radiate shockwaves registering an energy output higher than several dozen high-yield photon torpedoes. This defensive feature has military defense contractors very interested. According to anonymous sources on Cardassia Prime, a joint scientific team from the Arcturai-Gand Military Defense Corporation of Cardassia and the Kang Teth’a Corporation of the Klingon Empire has plans to send heavily reinforced starships into the nebula to do further research upon the subspace creature. The post Romanus Spatium Satanum: The Subspace Devilfish appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

FNS HQ, MARS — Captain Frederick Thompson, of the civilian transport vessel SS Torquay, has discovered the USS Ahwahnee (NCC-2048) a Constitution-class vessel, floating near the Klingon Federation border. Reported missing, believed destroyed, now due to be recovered. Initial investigations point to the ship encountering an as yet unknown subspace anomaly that killed all hands on board. Other than the tragic loss of life, the Ahwahnee is in near perfect condition and is due to be towed to Earth. “The vessel is in superb condition, considering it’s been floating in space for years,” commented Chief Engineer Daniel Hallstrom of the SS Torquay. “Space is big though. No wonder no one found it.” Starfleet scientists are excited to examine the vessel, believing the logs may show not only the cause of the incident but also provide clues on how to counter it in the future to preserve lives on board for the longest time possible. Captain Peter Drex, holder of the Legion of Honor, the Star Cross and Starfleet Medal of Commendation captained the Ahwahnee. The family of Drex has a history of Starfleet officers in its ranks, including Lieutenant Commander Kayla Drex, recently serving on the USS Eagle (NCC-74659). Starfleet has already sent subspace messages to Drex to inform her of the sad news and hopefully bring a close to the mystery of her Uncle’s disappearance. Early plans are, after a full investigation, to turn the ship into a museum dedicated to “Operation Retrieve”. The post Constitution-class Vessel USS Ahwahnee Discovered Near Klingon Federation Border appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

FNS reporter Dresdon P. Mitchell explores the modern issues concerning rituals and rites of Vulcans. In a previous special report, I discussed how the modern youth of Vulcan are focusing more on their career advances, rather than partaking in their seven-year mating ritual, pon farr and how they’re combating the neurochemical imbalances associated with the ritual. However, is it just medicine that’s allowing them to fight these urges? Because of the environment and temperature slowly falling after the atomic war, a Vulcan meteorologist has been studying with a Human pharmacist in determining these unnatural weather patterns. They feel that the enzymes or amino acid enzymes in the new Terran plant affected the chemical reactions and caused an imbalance with what the young adult Vulcans are using to combat their urges. “After the atomic war, the temperature has dropped over the years and with the fallout, growing Terran plants on Vulcan has changed the genealogy makeup,” said Selok, a Betazoid/Vulcan hybrid Genealogist said. The older generation is rejecting these claims as false and illogical since they haven’t refused the ritual. When asked if they have tried the plant, they refused to comment on the matter for they feel that pon farr should not be discussed so freely. A Vulcan Neurologist created a prototype to act as a substitute, which is a responsive neuro-destimulation device that might help both sides of the quarreling generations come to a more logical agreement. The doctor informed me of this new technology when she turned toward a holographic display of the process where she placed a small device under the scalp. “This device senses when the cortical levels rise and fall causing serotonin levels to become unbalanced which the brain’s regulatory system shuts down.” Doctor T’pra, the neurologist said as the display continued forward in motion. “A brief electrical pulse stops the cortical levels almost immediately, right when it rises to prevent the sudden drop.” Initial tests on patients were coming up with non conclusive results because the device wasn’t able to bring the levels to the balance which would cause microbes to trigger pon farr prematurely. As there were many ways to prematurely trigger pon farr, so adding another way for it to happen only causes raised unfascinating eyebrows of concern. Meanwhile, the young revolutionists have started a campaign with the pharmaceutical companies to get the Terran plant infused within neural transducers and marketed out to the masses. “It only seems logical and practical for us,” said another Vulcan, who wished to remain anonymous, such as the first one in the previous article. “Trying to persuade a Vulcan with these urges to not act on pon farr with me without my consent is not agreeable. With these alternative medicines, our people can advance on new scientific discoveries.” The post Are Modern Vulcans Refusing To Engage In Ritualistic Pon Farr To Pursue Career Goals? appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

TAU CETI PRIME — Federation scientists are keen to begin their explorations of a newly discovered geological and anthropological hotspot beneath the expansive glacier ice caps of Tai Centi Prime n collaboration with the Kaferians. Beneath the thousands of glaciers covering the landscape of the planet’s mountain regions lies a geological and anthropological mystery Federation scientists have pondered for decades, and Kaferians for as long as their written records extend into history. The Kaferians – an insectoid species and Federation member for many years inhabiting the sister planet Tau Ceti III, or Kohath-Seredi – have welcomed the effort to delve deeper into the planet’s origins. Unable to scan beneath the vast frozen vistas of oceanic ice developed over many millennia, new leaps in advanced technologies may now make the exploration a reality. Involving a Federation-wide collaboration effort to discover the mysteries of the deep permafrost sheets, using the best in Tellarite and Andorian technologies for the processes of terraforming and ice cutting respectively, scientists and explorers alike are already enthusiastic about the discoveries waiting for them on the continent. Fossil evidence from earlier excavations on melted ice has showed that there is increasing indications of a pre-civilisation that could have inhabited Tai Centi Prime before the continent submerged into the dry deep freeze and perfectly preserved plant life showing the flash freeze which occurred approximately 60 million years ago. Kaferian scientists have expressed a wide interest in the planet before, but lacked the technology to begin a formative effort. Presenting her theories of mass extinction and migration of her peoples from the originating planet of Tau Ceti Prime to their home of Kohath-Seredi, Director Sorllaith of the Kaferia Institute of Natural Science garnered much support at the previous New Horizons conference, and has since spoken at the ongoing conference taking place on Deluvia IV, Deluvia System. “This is an exciting development for our people!” exclaimed Doctor Sorllaith, Director of Science at the Kaferia Institute of Natural Science. “Once the ice caps melted, we discovered beneath a gigantic layer of ancient mud and seafloor, which has perfectly preserved fossils and microfossils that could establish the missing link between the origin of our species and our established a home on Kohath-Seredi. Our excavations have revealed some secrets of our long and incredible past before, but the opportunity to see where we originated from is an incredible breakthrough.” Applying highly calibrated sensor data from scientific vessels orbiting the planet, loaned by Starfleet Command for the effort, and the sharpest sensor pallets available on the ground, the first discoveries are already beginning to appear. The task is not an easy one. In some places, the ice extends up as far as five miles from the sea-level and large pieces of the formed sheets are disappearing into the ocean every day. The newly released water has caused the formation of dangerous lakes and rivers across the surface of the planet and crust, directly affecting the settled inhabitants and threatening the scientific outpost on the southern continent. “There is a delicate balance you have to strike, between how far you can drill into the crust without disrupting the natural order,” explained Doctor Narsh Chashnonch, Chief Researcher for the Tellarite Exploration Taskforce. “We have conducted thorough research already and will continue to do so on the surface before we make any effort to cut through it.” The exploration team will begin their initial survey and investigation, touching down at the outpost in the south and, utilising specially adapted Argo vehicles on loan from Starfleet, the team have begun preparations to travel across the land to set up their remote field camp amongst the northern ice. The post Ambitious Exploration Program Expands Under Threat Of Melting Ice Caps On Tau Ceti Prime appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

AAVARO WILDS, STARBASE 821 — Recent sudden transfers to and from the Federation flagship of the Aavaro Wilds has Starfleet officials on edge this week as drifting wreckage found. On a routine mission to explore a rogue comet, recently commissioned Federation starship the USS Juneau found more at the mission site. Per a terse, but informative news telex provided to Starbase 821 staff, administrators, and members of the associated press, the ship — while dealing with the ongoing problem of the comet — discovered a second Federation starship listing in the comet’s wake. The USS Arrow, once assigned to the Tyrellian Defense Fleet, was apparently static and without power, drifting into space with no originally posted crew aboard. Since then the Arrow has caused much-heated debate amid the Starbase 821 Command structure with some arguing that they should leave the ship to salvage and others for its safe return and recommission. Stoking the fires of debate is the uncertain nature of the current crew of the Arrow. With the report of the discovery of the ship, another one followed soon after, detailing members of the Wilds flagship Juneau had taken command of the ship. Public Record Duty Rosters also show that various members of the Juneau’s Senior Staff are now missing from that registry. “It is a… strange turn of events, to be sure,” said a source working closely with 821 Command on the matter. “A ship, that has been gone, considered lost for nearly 20 years suddenly showing back up? Out of the clear blue? WITH NO crew, no less? Something about it doesn’t sit right with me about it, I’ll say that much.” Starbase 821 Command declined to comment on possible recommission or refit of the once-forgotten vessel, aside from confirming that the ship has a crew and is in transit toward the base as of the time of this writing. They, however, say they are not at liberty to discuss exactly who that crew is at the moment nor give any hints as to the ship’s future in the Quadrant. More on this story as it develops. The post Rumors of Flagship Crew Shakeup Rattle Federation Officials in Aavaro Wilds appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

BERSALLIS III – The Bersallis III outpost has reported that the most recent firestorm activity is the strongest ever recorded since the outpost was founded. Doctor Maryanne Wilcox, director of the outpost and of the ongoing project at Barsallis III to study the effects of the storms on the planet’s environment and lifeforms, provided a report to Starfleet two weeks ago. The report is only just now being provided to the Federation News Service for dissemination. “The storms usually perpetuate themselves every seven years,” Dr Wilcox stated in her report. “But the most recent storm came very early and was incredibly strong. Almost three times stronger than one from seven years prior. We are still analyzing data to determine why this is the case.” The USS Merrimack was on station standing ready to evacuate the 700 occupants in the event of an emergency. Thankfully the starship’s services were not required as new metaphasic shielding techniques were integrated into the outpost’s protective shield grid. The Bersallis III outpost has been in place since 2361 to study the effects of high-atmosphere plasma on airborne flora, as well as synthesize materials to help insulate structures from high-temperature variation. In 2369, another high energy storm struck the outpost and required an evacuation of its residents, but lead to the death of eight Starfleet personnel in the effort. “We will continue our research on these storms and the flora and fauna of Bersallis III as this information is invaluable to the continuing search for answers and knowledge in our galaxy.” Doctor Wilcox concluded. “Should the planet’s cycle return to normal, the next firestorm is set to commence in 2403.” The post Strongest Fire Storms on Bersallis III in Recorded History appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

FNS reporter Dresdon P. Mitchell revisits his experience at the New Horizons Holo-Conference last year, and how this year, many of the questions and ideas posed will once again be explored. What started as a murmur across the nebula became true as scientists around the fleet materialized from separate ships to discuss their plans for the scientific community. People came from far and wide, pitching their ideas and hypothetical energizing conversations, intending to immerse in shared knowledge and provide intellectually sound, like-minded individuals to help further efforts for the future of all known species. One year later, we look into the events there. Science officers included in the conference were Lieutenant German Galven; USS Montreal’s Chief Science Officer, Commander Saveron; USS Constitution-B’s Counselor, Lieutenant Commander Ayiana Sevo; USS Gorkon’s Research Coordinator, Lieutenant Kayla Drex; USS Eagle’s Chief Scientist, Lieutenant Pholin Duyzer; USS Columbia’s Assistant Chief Science Officer, Dr Tim Alentonis; civilian Archaeologist, Lieutenant Commander Alora DeVaeu; USS Veritas’ scientist and Ensign Sotak, the USS Montreal’s scientist. Many officers have moved on in their careers since the seminar. “I wanted to know what other scientists around the fleet were doing and listen to their achievements,” explained Galven. “When I heard about the goal of New Horizons, I sent out a subspace message to every starship who had a science officer, hoping to get this off the ground.” Argelians demanded stronger attention from our Federation government, and for a week, we received no answer. Narala’s office had been “inundated with calls” and she was unavailable to take them. As each officer introduced themselves, they all marvelled at the technology that could hold such an event, bringing bright minds from across the galactic community to one place virtually, setting up timed responses and inquiries to make sure they did not forgo their duties onboard their starships in the excitement. “The entire experience was novel to me.” A stoic young Vulcan named Sotak described. “From attending a gathering from the holodeck, to speaking too much of the science community in the Federation. I am intrigued how the conclusion plays out.” One officer, Drex of the Eagle, was very excited to get things started as she approached the podium, but before she got the chance to speak, the whole area around them transformed into the libraries of Memory Alpha — an inhabited planetoid the Federation built a central library on with cultural relevance and scientific knowledge of all planetary Federation members. Drex discussed a theory regarding Quantum Sail Drives, describing space like a lake and time being a breeze. Scientists can theorise a way to create a sail that will carry people over this lake more efficiently than our crude oars (warp and trans-warp drives). Ideas presented in the conference included botany, xenobiology and warp thesis. Since the conference, these ideas have further expanded, and we hope to hear of their progress this year. “I propose that through visualization of this “breeze” in space, we will gain an understanding of the trade winds of our universe. From there, we can develop applications to sail at far greater speeds, and using far less energy than has been even fathomable in the history of any civilization we’ve yet to encounter.” Drex went on even further to say, “I believe I have a way to harness the very energy of space-time to achieve speeds that are so far beyond warp capabilities, we can barely measure it in our current terminology.” After each candidate spoke, there were questions from the other scientists and fresh ideas on how to help one another in their shared goal of pooled research. Towards the end of the conference, Galven finally offered his presentation on creating an antivirus that with enough tachyokinetic energy harvested as a byproduct to reverse harmful bacteria and even gases from taking place. He then demonstrated by using a sentient plant in a controlled environment that the process could be done, but there were still questions left unanswered if it was safer to do within a larger area. On the anniversary of the previous conference, New Horizons is once again opening its doors on Deluvia IV, and extends a call to scientific and technological minds across the Federation. Invitations to follow. The post Starfleet Scientists Hold Holo-Conference at New Horizons appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

GALOR IV – Medical and scientific personnel at the Galor IV Annex of the Daystrom Institute announced today that they have begun development on the next major update for Starfleet’s Emergency Medical Holographic (EMH) Program. Doctor Lewis Zimmerman developed the EMH Program, originally activated in 2371. His team made three subsequent updates to the model, leading to the current Mark IV model in service since 2377, with both the original EMH and the Mark II developed by Zimmerman and his team at the Jupiter Station Holoprogramming Center. Starfleet Research and Development created the Mark III and Mark IV aboard Science Station 402 in coordination with the Felker Institute. An unfinished program to create a long-term version of the EMH was proposed but never completed. “Starfleet Research and Development is confident in the ability of the Mark IV EMH. Our department also regularly updates the current model with modern medical data discovered in the last two decades,” clarified Lieutenant Harold Barton in response to questions at the press conference. “However, Starfleet believes that there is still room for improvement to make the Mark V the best version of the Emergency Medical Hologram to date.” The involvement of the original development team was not addressed in the press conference, however, the Galor IV Annex will be the primary site for the development of the Mark V update. Starfleet Medical officers have mixed feelings about the EMH program; some believe the holographic doctor is an excellent supplement for a trained physician in an emergency, while others dismiss the EMH and have no qualms about ignoring their ship’s equipped EMH whether or not there is an emergency. The most frequent criticism of the program by physicians is the lack of proper bedside manner that a sentient doctor can provide for a patient. Each version of the program has attempted to address this issue, to varying degrees of success. The specific improvements the Mark V will provide will not be clear until much later in the development cycle. The post Starfleet Research and Development begins work on Emergency Medical Hologram update appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

CARDASSIA PRIME — An archaeological team from the University of Cardassia has discovered what they believe to be the tomb of an ancient Cardassian warlord. The tales of Arlek Dovahn are well known to the Cardassian people. One of the many tales of Dovahn states that he took a wife who had descended from the heavens in a beautiful craft with gossamer wings. When they grew old together, his wife took him to the heavens in the craft she had arrived in. Until recently, it was almost universally agreed among Cardassian scholars that this wife was a deity of unknown origin. When the remains of a Bajoran Lightship were discovered on Cardassia Prime 2371, scholars speculated Dovahn’s wife could have been a Bajoran astronaut. The University team has significant evidence, pointing in favour of this being Dovahn’s tomb. From inscriptions on the casket to ritualistic reliefs carved on the walls. The first chamber held a significant amount of grave goods, intended to accompany the deceased to the afterlife. What the team found interesting was the door to the second chamber which was metallic, not stone like others of the period. Not wanting to damage anything, the Cardassians spent a week carefully unlocking the door and opening it. Upon gaining entry they found two caskets, both sealed. Initial scans inside the larger and more heavily inscribed casket showed the remains of a Cardassian male. The second casket bore a single line of inscribed text in an unknown language and is still being translated, however, it appears to be a mix of ancient Cardassian and archaic Bajoran. The preliminary study of casket two showed the remains of a Bajoran Female, Dovahn’s supposed divine wife. “It was an amazing moment,” declared Professor Seakbi Zenrer, the leader of the Cardassian Archaeological team. “We know our people and the Bajorans have an unstable past, but we hope this discovery can help to bring our two people closer together, and end the tension between Cardassia and Bajor.” This discovery shocked the archaeological team and were further shocked when the burial chamber was identified as the control room of a Bajoran Lightship. Further scans confirmed that the Lightship has been buried for centuries, and experts are working to date the tomb. The Cardassian and Bajoran governments have been in contact with each other, however, neither has released a statement yet. The post Cardassian Archeological Team Discovers Ancient Bajoran Spacecraft Inside Tomb appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

UTOPIA PLANITIA, MARS — After years of secret development, Starfleet is proud to unveil the launch of the USS Juneau, the first of its starship class and the first ship to bear the cutting edge Warp XV drive as standard equipment. After much tireless work, the state-of-the-art ship will undertake its maiden voyage over the next few months. Following new discoveries in warp field theory that paved the way for redefining the warp scale, prominent propulsion scientists across the Federation are claiming the new engine will be theoretically able to reach speeds approaching warp factor 15 on the new scale, which abolishes the previous warp 10 “infinite” theoretical limit. The USS Juneau commences her journey under the command of warp propulsion pioneer and co-designer of the Warp XV project, Captain Oddas Aria of the USS Eagle. Lt. Commander Geoffrey Teller, the chief engineer aboard the USS Veritas and the man recently assigned to accompany the maiden voyage of the Juneau as its chief engineer had this to say about what excited him most regarding the upcoming journey. “One of the principal designers of the Warp XV core is my captain, Roshanara Rahman, so the project has a personal angle for me,” said Teller. “We’ve helped bring the drive online for the Veritas, and we’ve seen some incredible performance, but helping to build a ship from the keel up to integrate this new engine and all the other new systems is an engineer’s dream.” At a hull length of just over 635 meters, Lt. Commander Teller, Captain Oddas, and the rest of the illustrious crew will have their work cut out for them. Following a shakedown cruise, the Juneau is slated to conduct a tour across Federation space as a gesture of goodwill and mutual cooperation. Tickets for the launch event at the Utopia Planitia Fleet Yards are limited, and only formal dress will be admitted. For more information, contact Lieutenant Kiliak Jo, the ship’s first officer, through the Starfleet Public Affairs Office. The post Launch of the USS Juneau appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

FNS contributor Taden Box joined an expedition to an uninhabited planet that yielded fresh archaeological findings into a possible pre-warp culture from the planet. Recently on Eta Corvi V, while climbing the various mountains of the M-class planet, I joined a scientific and archaeological expedition to one of the smaller peaks of the planet. In comparison, it was still much larger than that of Earth’s largest peak Mount Everest, and due to this they dubbed it “The Small Behemoth.” The expedition was to see if there were any signs of life existing on the surface and also to see what minerals were contained within the mountain’s crust. Invited by the head of the expedition, a Betazoid named Daden Hal, my aim was to report the findings as they occurred. The group was a mixture of species from across the Federation. Also accompanying us were representatives from the Klingon Empire and the newly formed Romulan Republic. Upon reaching the second base site, we discovered something that we weren’t prepared for. A Klingon, who went by the name Kog, dusted off some snow on a large rock to take some samples when he noticed some unusual markings. Investigating, we found some more and came to the conclusion that they weren’t formed by geological changes, and this led us to speculate that they were made by a sentient species, which churned the consideration that the planet we believed to be uninhabited wasn’t as uninhabited as originally thought. Unsure of what to think, the team conducted further research into the markings. Despite our advanced technology, we were unable to fully decipher what the markings read; however, our accompanying experts speculated that they were basic cave markings telling a story of some kind, along with what could be interpreted as a very basic form of linguistics. The sample was examined thoroughly, with evidential holophotos transferred back to the base camp. Our small group saw no evidence that there was a pre-warp culture remaining on the planet, but we couldn’t be too sure. Deciding it was best to finish collecting our samples, the team prepared to leave as quickly as possible, so as to not disturb or accidentally interfere with any sentient life on the planet. Once safely back into orbit on the science vessel, I asked Kog what he thought about his discovery. “It’s a glorious discovery for the Klingon Empire,” he replied, joyfully. “And the rest of you, of course.” Interviewing Daden Hal about what he thought about the potential of a previously unknown pre-warp civilization being discovered on Eta Corvi V, he examined his thoughts before explaining. “It’d be quite the find, but as of yet we have no evidence of a remaining pre-warp civilisation on this planet,” he said, downturned at the prospect. “But they may live underground, such as the Aenar do due to the cold temperatures of the surface. Our findings will allow Federation research centres the opportunity to delve deeper into this mystery and, hopefully, we’ll know more about Eta Corvi V in the coming months.” There is a more in-depth expedition by a joint Starfleet, Klingon and Romulan group that will try and discover if there is indeed a pre-warp civilisation present on the planet. As for now, all visits to the planet’s surface—bar that of the joint expedition—have been prevented in accordance with the Prime Directive. The post Discovered remnants of a possible pre-warp culture on Eta Corvi V appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

SOL SECTOR — Starfleet Command proudly announced today the formal dedication of Trident Science Station in geosynchronous orbit of the planet Neptune. The brand new, state-of-the-art outpost will have dedicated facilities for numerous scientific disciplines and will serve as a hub of investigative efforts for the planet itself and the adjacent Kuiper belt of asteroids and moonlets. Neptune, the outermost planet of the Sol system, is still largely a mystery to Starfleet Science, something Trident Station hopes to change. Among the station’s advanced facilities are an elaborate astrometrics center, multiple geo-scientific laboratories, and a full suite of chemical analysis resources. The facilities aboard Trident Station will be shared by Starfleet Science and a variety of independent contractors. Starfleet Science has inaugurated the launch of a three-year mission into comprehensive mapping of Neptune in multiple ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum. Renowned astrophysicist Dr. John Till is scheduled to lead this mission. “Neptune has a special place in the Sol system,” said Dr. Till to reporters at the announcement. “Apart from it being the farthest planet from the sun, research projects conducted over the last century have indicated that it has somehow shifted positions with Uranus in the distant past.” Dr. Till went on to say investigating whether this was an intentional event orchestrated by some unknown force or a natural process will be a core mystery that the station’s mission seeks to unravel. “The results of our efforts will provide insight in multiple fields of study, including cosmology and cosmogony,” he added. Starfleet Science has indicated that there are numerous future projects in line for Trident station. Among these is a possible investigation of the galactic core itself. Dr. Till indicated he is actively seeking collaboration with noted Vulcan astrophysicist Dr. Astin, a leading expert on gravitational singularities, to lead this investigation. Dr. Astin is currently aboard the station for a part-time mission, investigating gravitational waves using the new high sensitivity astrometrics array available at Trident. “The study of giga-energy systems, such as black holes and gravity wells, is important for both the safety of astrometrics and as a means of achieving insights into galactic formation,” said Dr. Astin. Trident Station’s astral position was modeled on V’Kali Station, which orbits the outer planet of the 40 Eridani A system, also known as the home system of the Vulcans. V’Kali Station will be partnering with the efforts aboard Trident, using their existing array of deep space telescopes to provide an additional layer of observational data of Neptune itself. The purpose of this two-fold approach is to investigate the historical planetary formation process by observing light which is only now arriving in the Vulcan system after its sixteen light-year journey. Beyond the purely scientific facilities, several groups have already expressed an interest in providing goods and services aboard Trident. Members of the Ferengi Trade Alliance have eagerly set up shop to act as one of the station’s suppliers. “Trident station is close to Earth, which allows for much profit to be gained for the Alliance,” said Daemon Wart, leader of the FTAs delegation. In addition, Tellarite political science professor Dr. Ellaris of the Tellarite Educational Outreach Embassy will be using space aboard the station to open a School of Debate. “[My aim is to] educate the humans of the Sol system in the art of Tellarite political debate,” said Dr. Ellaris. “This will bring future members of the Federation Council much-needed expertise.” Dr. Ellaris also indicated that Trident station will allow Tellarite scientists to investigate gas giants, a type of stellar body their own star system is lacking. The Tellarite government will also be cooperating with noted anthropologist Dr. Emily Paskin in a small project investigating the possibilities of founding a colony on Neptune’s largest moon, Triton. Trident Station’s proximity to the moon will make it a natural jumping off point for any such future efforts. The post State-of-the-art research station launched in orbit of Neptune appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

Get the full details about the next generation subspace communications network under construction in the Shoals. If you live in the Shoals region, chances are you suffer from poor connectivity to the Federation’s subspace network or poor extranet speeds, but good news came in late 2394 when it was announced that Starfleet and the Colonial Coalition were working together to improve the quality of communications in the Shoals in the form of the second widespread network upgrade. Supposedly, plans for the network upgrade began ten years before the announcement was even made, but engineers within the organizations providing the current access on Colonial Coalition planets suffered repeated delays when they found that upgrading to the current network infrastructure widely used by the greater Federation would prove problematic, as it didn’t account for the ongoing tetryon emissions experienced in the area of space. At this news, many resigned to having to use the old 2362-dated network. However, Starfleet has brought in their own communications and components specialist, and a non-Federation citizen is even heading up the project. They expect the overall upgrades to be completed by early 2400 – a gift for the new century. For some planets, however, the upgrade could be experienced as early as late this year. Here is what we know so far: Infrastructure upgrades Work has been completed in three major areas that are key to the 3rd generation network (3GN): Coalition Outpost Loa (also simply called Outpost 3), which originally tracked the Mother Road before it was heavily damaged by a pirate attack in 2394, will be the primary relay for Antor II and Shadow’s Edge, as well as their surrounding minor settlements. Kidman I is a newly-established settlement with whom Starfleet has formed a mutual agreement. Kidman I now hosts a primary subspace communication relay that’s responsible for Meridian and Donova IV, as well as their surrounding minor settlements. Star Station Esperance now acts as an improved relay after extensive upgrades completed this week. They connect Kidman I and CO Loa to the wider Federation. A view of Esperance, an allied, non-Federation world known as the “Gateway to the Federation” due to its location near the border of the Federation and the Colonial Coalition. Originally there were four expected upgrades, as a new colony to be established in the Thura system would have held a primary subspace relay similar to Starfleet’s agreement with the colonists of Kidman I, but following the reports of a Starfleet ranger missing in that region, plans for the Thura relay were put on hold. Connectivity test results between the current three relays have been positive, and Starfleet is now looking to upgrade Coalition Outpost Oodnadatta (in an optimal location for Ketar V), though no plans have been drafted as of yet. Havley’s Hope will also need a relay, but no potential ones have yet been identified. Discussions had with Klingons for Karakka Colonists located on Karakka have to deal with the worst of the 2GN, as they are located behind the Shadows and farther away from Federation space than the rest of the Shoals all together. This makes upgrading them to the 3GN more complicated, but Starfleet’s engineers issued a response to queries in early December: “With Karakka’s location, it will be difficult for us to connect them to the wider 3GN. There is no way around this. As such, we’ve contacted the Klingon Empire for some assistance. As Karakka is just outside their territory, we believe it’s more prudent if Karakka has immediate access to their communications network and secondary access to the Federation network until such time we’ve developed a concrete and reliable connection from Karakka to the rest of the colonies.” Karakka, the most remote Federation colony in the Shoals At last report, the Klingon Empire has sent a team of surveyors to Karakka to determine what resources would be necessary to improve communications in not only their small slice of the Shoals but also for Karakka. From the Klingon Empire head of communications: “We will not go into an agreement until such time we have made our own survey. We will make a determination once it has been completed.” They’re expected to arrive on the colony in June. No word yet whether first reports from the colony itself has made them more open to discussion. Starfleet reports that connectivity will begin for certain colonies in phases, beginning this year. Phase One: Subspace communication improvements for within and outside of the Shoals Subspace communication is one of two typical ways an average person speaks to their loved ones or has long-distance business calls. In the Shoals, it’s next to impossible to get a clear reception using the current 2nd generation network. It’s riddled with static, drops out, and often suffers from delays – and that’s just to other planets located within the region. Speaking to the wider Federation is next to impossible. The 3GN is expected to bring some stability to calls – while Starfleet is not promising that contact to outside the Federation will improve, they expect that “colonies relatively near to each other” will be able to have an ongoing communications channel open with no static, no drop-outs, and few delays in speed. Map of the Shoals region They’ve not yet specified what is meant by colonies near each other, but it’s rumored that the Y-region colonies (Donova, Antor, Meridian, and Shadow’s Edge) are set to receive this immediate upgrade by May of 2397. Phase Two: Data packet and letter delivery improvements The drawbacks of tetryon-riddled space is that colonists still often need to send big files through courier, as the high-density data stream will not make it across the Shoals and into the Federation. As such, letters outside the region take a little more than two weeks to reach their destination, and more often than not, these are sent by couriers for more reliability. Couriers. In the 24th century. The 3GN promises to improve data capabilities for letters and data packets with an “express link” directly to a station outside the Shoals. The wait time to receive letters or data packets is expected to cut down for certain regions to the following predicted averages, as stated by the Colonial Coalition: Colony 2GN Average 3GN average Ketar 3.5 weeks 2 weeks Meridian 2 weeks 3 days Shadow’s Edge 2.5 weeks 4 days Antor 3.5 weeks 5 days Donova 4 weeks 2.5 weeks Note that while Havley’s Hope and Karakka have not yet been added to the 3GN predictions, Starfleet have stated that they should expect a network upgrade by 2401. Phase Three: Vastly improved Federation extranet connectivity When the colonies were established in the early 23rd century, no immediate effort was made to connect colonists to the Federation extranet. At present, while it is possible to connect to the extranet, the speeds are well below the average of colonies on the outskirts of the Federation. It is impossible to even search the extranet, let alone game online or stream the latest cooking shows from the Bolian homeworld. Meridian, the most populous Federation colony in the Shoals Each planet has their own internal network with dedicated high speeds for every colonist, but the Coalition states that work has begun on Meridian to improve poor access to the Federation extranet. Antor, Meridian, and Shadow’s Edge are expected to see better access by 2399. This includes, but is not limited to, extranet speeds capable of accessing: Low-end Federation standard online gaming ALTRA quality news and entertainment streams Federation colony education resources What’s first? Phase one of the 3GN (improved subspace communications) is expected to begin implementation for Antor II, Shadow’s Edge, Donova IV, and Meridian this year, and set to be completed in May of 2397. Check with your governing provider to see if your equipment is ready for the upgrade. The post The Shoals 3GN – everything we know so far appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

SAN FRANCISCO, EARTH — Dr. Leonard Kopalski, a renown astrophysicist, published an honorary publication this week chronicling the greatest historical works in physics. Studying more than 900 years of research, Dr. Kopalski dissertated the works of more than 60 historical physicists. Starting with the legendary Sir Isaac Newton, Kopalski described the progress of more than one millennium of research into physics, chemistry, and the secrets of the cosmos. Other notable figures are described as well, including Blaise Pascal, Albert Einstein, and the late Zefram Cochrane. Other species were mentioned as well, such as the Vulcan T’Karmu and the Bajoran Kizma. These figures were responsible for discovering similar ideas as their human counterparts. Dr. Kopalski wrote the publication mostly as a piece of historical appreciation, but it also serves as a reference framework for new Federation scientists to delve into these ancient theories to prove their worth in the warp-technological era. Dr. Kopalski was not afraid to include several controversial people in his documents, such as the Klingon scientist Waafrun, who was responsible for the creation of nuclear weapons on Qo’Nos. “In my study, I found it important to include all historical figures, no matter how dangerous their ideas might’ve been,” said Dr. Kopalski. Federation scientists have commended Dr. Kopalski for his thorough work and are looking to spreading the publication around Federation space. “It truly shows how far the Federation has come in its scientific research over so many years,” said Minister Usei of Culture on the piece. Dr. Kopalski hopes that the dissertation becomes part of a further study into the history of science, a field he fears has been neglected for some time now. However, the professor confessed that many of the works of human scientists were lost during the nuclear wars. He had to carefully piece together evidence from disparate sources, most notably the ancient Vatican archives that were mostly spared in those disastrous times. The post Astrophysicist publishes memorial dissertation appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

ALPHA CENTAURI — The University of Alpha Centauri has begun a project which aspires to shed some insight into what the early days of Starfleet and the Federation was like in its origins after the recovery of an Earth Starfleet starship and its crew that vanished about two hundred years ago. Professor Marius Stana, author of The Lost Frontier, has commenced meetings with the crew of the starship Fortwith. The NX-class Fortwith was considered lost with all hands in 2153 until the USS Blackwell, assigned to the Andaris Task Force, discovered them last year on the planetoid P-409 Sigma in the Rettan Province of the Par’tha Expanse while investigating strange anomalous readings coming from that area. The Fortwith crew were apparently trapped inside the anomaly and were rescued by the Blackwell with help from the Klingon vessel, Gik’tal. The recovered crew were treated on the Blackwell for severe exposure and transported back to Deep Space 26 at the entrance to the Jenatris Corridor, to be returned to Earth. An invitation to the University of Alpha Centauri has been extended to the Fortwith crew to speak about their experiences both then and now. “This is an opportunity to explore our more distant past before there was even a Captain Kirk and to explore humanity’s desire to venture out into the stars. I am looking forward to picking their brains,” said Professor Stana in an interview with the FNS. “This could put a whole new spin on our nature.” Some of the former crew had doubts about their contributions, but most are willing to tell what they know. “I don’t know what I can tell them,” said Lieutenant Park of the Fortwith. “I’m just glad to be back, even though it is a bit late.” The former crew of the Fortwith is now undergoing repatriation into the Federation. Once they have been evaluated and cleared by Starfleet Medical, the interviews are expected to commence in earnest. The post Crew of Earth Starfleet vessel rescued from P-409 Sigma after missing for two centuries appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article

VULCAN — Starfleet Science announced the first ever international science conference to be hosted this month on Vulcan, and members from Romulan, Klingon, and Ferengi science teams have been invited by the Federation to attend. Dr. Ferreira, director of Starfleet Science, expressed his excitement for the Vulcan Interspecies Science Forum that he and Dr. Brody have been working on most of this past year. “It is an opportunity to exchange many interesting topics between nations and across species,” said Dr. Ferreira. He will be working with the Federation scientific teams to gain insight on multiple space phenomenon in Klingon space, an area where Starfleet Science is lacking information in multiple fields. Several scientists, including the Klingon Magor, expressed doubts about the militarization of the science shared within the Forum. “The Empire will not cooperate with the Federation and the Romulans if our knowledge is used against us!” he said to Dr. Ferreira in a personal call. Dr. Brody, who will be leading the Federation’s efforts in securing archaeological science from the Klingons, acknowledged the Klingon’s concerns and assured the restriction of military tech at the Forum. “The purpose of the forum is in the field of science, and so we must guard against the sharing of military secrets,” said Dr. Brody. “Dissertations and agreements shall be written and signed to those involved to assure to refrain from any military application of the tech and science exchanged.” The forum is scheduled to last for one week, and the Vulcan Science Academy shall open its door to host the event. The director of the Academy, T’Nora, expressed gratitude in hosting the Forum. “It shall be an opportunity for both the Federation and its allies to increase their knowledge of the universe, a pursuit all Vulcans aspire too,” she said. Federation President Narala expressed her support of the event, and Dr. Rajani of Starfleet Medical will also appear with several medical teams to expand their knowledge of Romulan and Klingon medicine. “The Romulan colony of Siolara has suffered a viral epidemic that has affected more than 200,000 people already,” said Dr. Rajani. Dr. Siudok of the Romulans will be working closely with Dr. Rajani to alleviate this problem. Dr. Ferreira has inclined that the Forum shall not be the first and only time it shall be held. He showed that talks are already on their way to include the Bajorans, the Cardassians, and the Breen in another edition next year. He also informed the venue for next year to be shifted to Bajor to increase the likeliness of inclusion of the Cardassians and the Breen. The post Federation hosts interspecies science conference appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article