Being a deep space pilot is tough enough, but being the
member of a deep space exploration team is even tougher.
As you look out into the vast expanse of space your mind
starts to wander. You think back to your early childhood
and the days of dreaming about what else might be out
here. It was so much fun playing space pilot with your
friends. Suddenly, you are shaken back to reality when a
solar flare rattles your ship. The interstellar com alert
signals, "Get back to base now! A stray planet-killer
is in your system!" You frantically check your gauges
and reply, "DS 1, I only have enough fuel for one
burn! Send out a fuel carrier!." There is an
immediate reply seemingly anticipating your request,
"Negative explorer. There is no time. We are on full
alert. Use what you've got and make it count.....good
luck." "I guess I'm on my own now. This is so
glamorous.", you mumble to yourself in disdain.