Starship One: Difference between revisions

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{{ShipIndividualInfobox
{{ShipIndividualInfobox
| image              = Starship One.png
| image              = Starship One Farragut Battle Cruiser.png
| manufacturer        = [[Core Dynamics]]<br/>[[Saud Kruger]] (formerly)
| manufacturer        = [[Core Dynamics]]<br/>[[Saud Kruger]] (formerly)
| model              = [[Battlecruiser]]<br/>Passenger Liner (formerly)
| model              = [[Battlecruiser]]<br/>Passenger Liner (formerly)
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During the final day of the trial on February 5, the prosecution named Core Dynamics CEO [[Jupiter Rochester]] as a co-conspirator in the plot to assassinate Jasmina Halsey. Seeking to protect the profits of Core Dynamics, which would be adversely affected by Halsey's proposed military budget cuts, Vincent and Rochester orchestrated the sabotage of Starship One to eliminate Halsey and arranged for her to be replaced by Zachary Hudson, whom they were confident would maintain the Federal Navy's funding and keep Core Dynamics awash in contracts. The defence again tried to undermine the credibility of Halsey's testimony, and also argued that the prosecution's financial evidence had been improperly obtained and was therefore inadmissible. The jury then entered sequestered deliberations. Not long afterward, reports emerged that several Core Dynamics departments known as "[[Jupiter Division]]" were transporting ships and personnel to the [[HIP 54530]] system, the ruling faction of which renamed itself Jupiter Division.<ref name="Jupiter Named">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/601d40da3b480653852264ef GalNet: Jupiter Rochester Named in Starship One Trial]</ref>
During the final day of the trial on February 5, the prosecution named Core Dynamics CEO [[Jupiter Rochester]] as a co-conspirator in the plot to assassinate Jasmina Halsey. Seeking to protect the profits of Core Dynamics, which would be adversely affected by Halsey's proposed military budget cuts, Vincent and Rochester orchestrated the sabotage of Starship One to eliminate Halsey and arranged for her to be replaced by Zachary Hudson, whom they were confident would maintain the Federal Navy's funding and keep Core Dynamics awash in contracts. The defence again tried to undermine the credibility of Halsey's testimony, and also argued that the prosecution's financial evidence had been improperly obtained and was therefore inadmissible. The jury then entered sequestered deliberations. Not long afterward, reports emerged that several Core Dynamics departments known as "[[Jupiter Division]]" were transporting ships and personnel to the [[HIP 54530]] system, the ruling faction of which renamed itself Jupiter Division.<ref name="Jupiter Named">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/601d40da3b480653852264ef GalNet: Jupiter Rochester Named in Starship One Trial]</ref>


The jury returned with a verdict of guilty on February 8, and sentenced Lucas Vincent to life imprisonment for this crimes. The Federal Intelligence Agency then immediately moved to arrest several other co-conspirators among the Federal Navy and government. Jupiter Rochester eluded authorities and fled to the safety of his Jupiter Division in HIP 54530. Questions were raised about whether or not other members of the [[Rochester family]] were involved in or had knowledge of the Starship One plot, and conspiracy theories swirled that Jupiter was a member of [[The Club]]. At the same time, prior accusations that President Zachary Hudson masterminded the Starship One disaster to remove Halsey and ascend to the presidency were effectively debunked, since Vincent's trial had presented no evidence that Hudson was aware of the conspiracy.<ref name="Vincent Guilty">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/60212d7aa4e2185f794a4065 GalNet: Fleet Admiral Vincent Pronounced Guilty]</ref>
The jury returned with a verdict of guilty on February 8, and sentenced Lucas Vincent to life imprisonment for his crimes. The Federal Intelligence Agency then immediately moved to arrest several other co-conspirators among the Federal Navy and government. Jupiter Rochester eluded authorities and fled to the safety of his Jupiter Division in HIP 54530. Questions were raised about whether or not other members of the [[Rochester family]] were involved in or had knowledge of the Starship One plot, and conspiracy theories swirled that Jupiter was a member of [[The Club]]. At the same time, prior accusations that President Zachary Hudson masterminded the Starship One disaster to remove Halsey and ascend to the presidency were effectively debunked, since Vincent's trial had presented no evidence that Hudson was aware of the conspiracy.<ref name="Vincent Guilty">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/60212d7aa4e2185f794a4065 GalNet: Fleet Admiral Vincent Pronounced Guilty]</ref>


The revelation that Jupiter Rochester funded the attempted assassination of Jasmina Halsey to increase the profits of Core Dynamics, as well as his insurrection against Federal forces in HIP 54530, provoked a public outcry among Federal citizens against corruption and corporate influence in the Federal government. The scandal damaged both the Republican Party and the Liberal Party. Trust in the former fell despite President Hudson denying knowledge of the conspiracy, and the latter was politically embarrassed by its Shadow Vice President, [[Isolde Rochester]], having familial ties to the self-proclaimed Supreme Executive of Jupiter Division.<ref name="Federation Corruption">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/602a700b2ad23f14f43973ff GalNet: Federation Damaged by Corruption and Conspiracy]</ref> When Federal forces defeated Jupiter Division on February 18, the FIA arrested Jupiter and charged him with crimes related to his role in the Starship One disaster.<ref name="Victory Federal">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/602e59b311bc486b7f3739ab GalNet: Victory for Federal Forces Against Jupiter Division]</ref> The [[Federal Justice Department]] sentenced Jupiter to life imprisonment without a trial on the basis of the self-evident nature of his crimes on March 5, seemingly bringing the saga to a close, but Milandu Okoro of the Federal Attorney's Office remarked that this was highly unusual. The FJD also denied the Federal Attorney's Office's request to open a full investigation into Jupiter Rochester and Lucas Vincent for possible other crimes and conspiracies.<ref name="Jupiter Sentenced">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/60422b82a35452295305a1b4 GalNet: Jupiter Rochester Sentenced to Life Imprisonment]</ref>
The revelation that Jupiter Rochester funded the attempted assassination of Jasmina Halsey to increase the profits of Core Dynamics, as well as his insurrection against Federal forces in HIP 54530, provoked a public outcry among Federal citizens against corruption and corporate influence in the Federal government. The scandal damaged both the Republican Party and the Liberal Party. Trust in the former fell despite President Hudson denying knowledge of the conspiracy, and the latter was politically embarrassed by its Shadow Vice President, [[Isolde Rochester]], having familial ties to the self-proclaimed Supreme Executive of Jupiter Division.<ref name="Federation Corruption">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/602a700b2ad23f14f43973ff GalNet: Federation Damaged by Corruption and Conspiracy]</ref> When Federal forces defeated Jupiter Division on February 18, the FIA arrested Jupiter and charged him with crimes related to his role in the Starship One disaster.<ref name="Victory Federal">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/602e59b311bc486b7f3739ab GalNet: Victory for Federal Forces Against Jupiter Division]</ref> The [[Federal Justice Department]] sentenced Jupiter to life imprisonment without a trial on the basis of the self-evident nature of his crimes on March 5, seemingly bringing the saga to a close, but Milandu Okoro of the Federal Attorney's Office remarked that this was highly unusual. The FJD also denied the Federal Attorney's Office's request to open a full investigation into Jupiter Rochester and Lucas Vincent for possible other crimes and conspiracies.<ref name="Jupiter Sentenced">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/60422b82a35452295305a1b4 GalNet: Jupiter Rochester Sentenced to Life Imprisonment]</ref>
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==Timeline==
==Timeline==
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21 JAN 3308
*[[President of the Federation|President]] [[Zachary Hudson]] has delivered a speech to [[Federal Congress|Congress]] on maintaining security for the [[Federation]] in the coming years. Excerpts from his address include the following: "In the last year, we have excelled at protecting Federal citizens from harm. The [[Proactive Detection Bureau]] proved its worth in locating terrorists before they could strike, and our security services played an instrumental role in the [[Neo-Marlinist Liberation Army|NMLA's]] defeat. 3308 is already bringing many challenges. The [[Second Thargoid War|war]] against the [[Thargoid]]s could escalate at any time, and we face the challenge of replacing [[Aegis]] with our own anti-xeno taskforce. We are also deeply concerned about increased infighting within the [[Alliance]] and [[Empire]], which could easily spill over into our territory. My administration is holding high-level discussions about how best to keep the Federation strong and secure. We will soon make some brave proposals to continue meeting our people's constitutional right to safety." [[Shadow President]] [[Felicia Winters]] delivered this rebuttal: "President Hudson fails to mention his disastrous attempt to capture [[Yuri Grom]], his [[Lucas Vincent|former fleet admiral's]] criminal conviction for destroying Starship One, or that [[Domestic Counter-Terrorism Act|his surveillance laws]] forced several systems to [[Federal Rebellion of 3307|declare independence]]. I would argue that under his leadership, the Federation has never been weaker or less secure."<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/61eaae9fc1b79e7e5c5e7091 GalNet: Federal Government Plans for the Future]</ref>
28 DEC 3307
*The noted historian [[Sima Kalhana]] takes a look back at the turbulent events of the last year in a four-part series of articles.<br/>"The start of 3307 was a time of crisis. The rise of the [[Neo-Marlinist Liberation Army]] (NMLA), the [[Marlinist refugee crisis]] and increased [[Empire]]-[[Federation]] tensions had brought a full-scale superpower war closer, with renewed attacks from the [[Thargoid]]s increasing the pressure. All of this led to [[Pranav Antal]]'s proposal of a diplomatic conference for all three superpower governments to work through their problems – the very first [[Galactic Summit]]. Within weeks, [[Sirius Corporation]] was selected as the neutral host for the conference. [[Li Yong-Rui]] scored another triumph by establishing the [[Marlinist Colonies]] for millions of political refugees who had fled from the Empire. In February came the trial of [[Lucas Vincent|Fleet Admiral Vincent]], accused of arranging Starship One's destruction back in 3301. His paymaster was revealed as [[Core Dynamics]] CEO [[Jupiter Rochester]], who wanted to replace Federal democracy with direct corporate rule. His breakaway faction [[Jupiter Division]] was defeated in battle and Rochester himself jailed for life. This also led to Core Dynamics's acquisition of [[Lakon Spaceways]] being cancelled, leaving the [[Alliance]] to purchase a majority sharehold in the company. Key players on the political stage finally gathered when the Galactic Summit began in late February. The [[Sirius]] system hosted leaders from the Alliance, Empire, Federation and [[independent]] systems. Even pirate warlord [[Archon Delaine]] gatecrashed the event, causing controversy with his 'crown of bones' speech. It seemed for a while that the bickering between so many strong personalities might trigger a war rather than avert one. But gradually there was progress, with the possibility of a [[Sirius Treaty|treaty]] to increase unity against the Thargoid threat. But before reaching this conclusion, the Galactic Summit was derailed by a threat from another source. [[Nine Martyrs]] – as named by the NMLA leader [[John Tyburn|Theta Seven]] – was the largest terrorist attack in history. Hundreds of thousands were killed by starport bombings in nine systems, including the superpower capitals of [[Alioth]], [[Achenar]] and [[Sol]]. This horrific tragedy ended the conference abruptly, but did give rise to some inter-power cooperation. A [[Cornelius-Lasky Convention|new agreement]] signed at the Galactic Summit allowed the [[Affiliated Counter-Terrorism unit]] (ACT) to be formed rapidly. Drawing on the superpowers' security services and other organisations, its sole purpose was to hunt down and eliminate the NMLA, a task that would dominate the headlines for the rest of the year."<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/61bc61cd859898793a033dc0 GalNet: A Retrospective of 3307 (Part One)]</ref>
26 MAR 3307
26 MAR 3307
*Former President [[Jasmina Halsey]] has joined the [[Federal Diplomatic Corps]] to become an ambassador to the [[Alliance]]. In recent years Halsey served as an advisor to [[Edmund Mahon|Prime Minister Mahon]], but returned to the [[Federation]] in January to stand as a witness in the Starship One trial. She was a guest of Shadow President [[Felicia Winters]] at the [[Galactic Summit]], and both were evacuated back to [[Mars]] when it was cancelled. At a press conference, Ambassador Halsey said: "Being at the conference reminded me that the political arena is where I belong. My new responsibilities allow me to continue serving the Federation while making use of my experience within the Alliance, and hopefully build stronger bridges between the two." [[Elijah Beck]], head of the [[Alliance Office of Diplomatic Relations]], sent this message: "Jasmina's level-headed advice has calmed many tense political situations. This is the ideal role for a diplomat of her calibre, and I look forward to working with her again." In related news, the Federal Diplomatic Corps confirmed that Ambassador [[Jordan Rochester]] had been recalled from duty to be reassigned. Most of the [[Empire]] and Federation's embassies in each other's space have been closed since November 3306.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/605dd98c80c2570d06280658 GalNet: Jasmina Halsey Becomes Federal Ambassador]</ref>
*Former President [[Jasmina Halsey]] has joined the [[Federal Diplomatic Corps]] to become an ambassador to the [[Alliance]]. In recent years Halsey served as an advisor to [[Edmund Mahon|Prime Minister Mahon]], but returned to the [[Federation]] in January to stand as a witness in the Starship One trial. She was a guest of Shadow President [[Felicia Winters]] at the [[Galactic Summit]], and both were evacuated back to [[Mars]] when it was cancelled. At a press conference, Ambassador Halsey said: "Being at the conference reminded me that the political arena is where I belong. My new responsibilities allow me to continue serving the Federation while making use of my experience within the Alliance, and hopefully build stronger bridges between the two." [[Elijah Beck]], head of the [[Alliance Office of Diplomatic Relations]], sent this message: "Jasmina's level-headed advice has calmed many tense political situations. This is the ideal role for a diplomat of her calibre, and I look forward to working with her again." In related news, the Federal Diplomatic Corps confirmed that Ambassador [[Jordan Rochester]] had been recalled from duty to be reassigned. Most of the [[Empire]] and Federation's embassies in each other's space have been closed since November 3306.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/605dd98c80c2570d06280658 GalNet: Jasmina Halsey Becomes Federal Ambassador]</ref>
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*In another shocking revelation the [[Federal Times]] today posted a story highlighting possible links between a non-exec member of the board of [[Core Dynamics]] and Vice President [[Nigel Smeaton]]'s death. They first referenced an interview on January 28th with [[Congressman]] [[George Fallside]] who appeared to have early knowledge of the Vice President's death. The Congressman refused to comment on the article, but it is public knowledge of his non-executive directorship of Core Dynamics and several other major arms manufacturers. More damning was the evidence concerning one of the crew of the Starship One, Flight Engineer Nick Baron, who had previously worked at Core Dynamics before joining the President's Crew. From the information package sent by [[Elaine Boyd]] after her death, the Federal Times published extracts of financial records of the flight engineer. When tracing these records through a convoluted series of transfers, one of these transfers was through a shell corporation in which Congressman Fallside was involved. The trail of the payments revealed that Boyd must have obtained a high level clearance access, possibly provided by [[Susan Monroe|Agent Monroe]]. When asked about today's story, the Chief Editor for the Federal Times commented: "There does appear to have been a conspiracy on several levels. We believe that the destruction of the [[Highliner Antares]] so many years ago may not have been an accident. When the Vice President was investigating the death of his relative, he must have discovered some of these details, and possible the dark forces killed him, and when our reporter Elaine Boyd did the same, she too was silenced. We are still not clear how it relates to the present day. Our reporters continue to investigate. At the Federal Times we always seek the truth and we will discover the truth here."<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/55e56c1d9657ba7521ed4373 GalNet: Core Dynamics has Links to VP's Death?]</ref>
*In another shocking revelation the [[Federal Times]] today posted a story highlighting possible links between a non-exec member of the board of [[Core Dynamics]] and Vice President [[Nigel Smeaton]]'s death. They first referenced an interview on January 28th with [[Congressman]] [[George Fallside]] who appeared to have early knowledge of the Vice President's death. The Congressman refused to comment on the article, but it is public knowledge of his non-executive directorship of Core Dynamics and several other major arms manufacturers. More damning was the evidence concerning one of the crew of the Starship One, Flight Engineer Nick Baron, who had previously worked at Core Dynamics before joining the President's Crew. From the information package sent by [[Elaine Boyd]] after her death, the Federal Times published extracts of financial records of the flight engineer. When tracing these records through a convoluted series of transfers, one of these transfers was through a shell corporation in which Congressman Fallside was involved. The trail of the payments revealed that Boyd must have obtained a high level clearance access, possibly provided by [[Susan Monroe|Agent Monroe]]. When asked about today's story, the Chief Editor for the Federal Times commented: "There does appear to have been a conspiracy on several levels. We believe that the destruction of the [[Highliner Antares]] so many years ago may not have been an accident. When the Vice President was investigating the death of his relative, he must have discovered some of these details, and possible the dark forces killed him, and when our reporter Elaine Boyd did the same, she too was silenced. We are still not clear how it relates to the present day. Our reporters continue to investigate. At the Federal Times we always seek the truth and we will discover the truth here."<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/55e56c1d9657ba7521ed4373 GalNet: Core Dynamics has Links to VP's Death?]</ref>
11 AUG 3301
11 AUG 3301
*Two people died in a crash when a personal transport collided with a [[Lakon Spaceways|Lakon]] [[Type-9 Heavy]] transport vessel. The small ship, a type used to run between orbital facilities, was destroyed in the impact. The small vessel was ferrying two transport safety officials to the Laphria Shipyard in the Artemis system. They were on a knowledge sharing mission. The Transport Safety Authority issued the following statement from their headquarters on [[Mars]]: "This type of accident is always a terrible tragedy for those involved and the Laphrian authorities have promised full disclosure and co-operation with our investigation." They also reported that the pilot of the Type-9 was being treated for shock. She saw the transport break open only metres from her large window as she approached the station. [[Elaine Boyd]] from the [[Federal Times]] asked for the identities of the dead and was told that they wouldn't be disclosed until the next of kin had been identified. She pressed further asking if one of the dead men was Arnold Lowe, a senior investigator in the Starship One disappearance. She was told 'no comment' and no further questions were taken.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/55c9c9619657ba0e04597831 GalNet: Two Dead in Tragic Accident]</ref>
*Two people died in a crash when a personal transport collided with a [[Lakon Spaceways|Lakon]] [[Type-9 Heavy]] transport vessel. The small ship, a type used to run between orbital facilities, was destroyed in the impact. The small vessel was ferrying two transport safety officials to the Laphria Shipyard in the Artemis system. They were on a knowledge sharing mission. The [[Federal Transport Safety Administration|Transport Safety Authority]] issued the following statement from their headquarters on [[Mars]]: "This type of accident is always a terrible tragedy for those involved and the Laphrian authorities have promised full disclosure and co-operation with our investigation." They also reported that the pilot of the Type-9 was being treated for shock. She saw the transport break open only metres from her large window as she approached the station. [[Elaine Boyd]] from the [[Federal Times]] asked for the identities of the dead and was told that they wouldn't be disclosed until the next of kin had been identified. She pressed further asking if one of the dead men was Arnold Lowe, a senior investigator in the Starship One disappearance. She was told 'no comment' and no further questions were taken.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/55c9c9619657ba0e04597831 GalNet: Two Dead in Tragic Accident]</ref>
04 AUG 3301
04 AUG 3301
*A [[Sirius Corporation]] shuttle was destroyed this morning when its docking computer failed on approach to Patterson Enterprise in the [[Sirius]] system. While such failures aren't unheard of, they are rare, especially among smaller craft. [[Elaine Boyd]] from the [[Federal Times]] asked a Sirius Corporation representative how the company was able to determine the cause of the accident so quickly. She was told: "The telemetry from the shuttle provided clear evidence of a stall in the computer's operation as the vessel approached the docking port. The boost protocol should have been disabled but was instead activated, causing the shuttle to crash into the station." The representative stated that the crash would be investigated further, and in particular why the software failed in this instance. Everyone onboard the shuttle was killed including Sean Richards, a senior consultant engineer who helped to compile the incident report on the recent disappearance of Starship One. Richards had also formed part of the task force some 50 years earlier with the [[Highliner Antares|Antares]] enquiry.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/55c07fd99657ba707a237d68 GalNet: Five Killed in Shuttle Accident]</ref>
*A [[Sirius Corporation]] shuttle was destroyed this morning when its docking computer failed on approach to Patterson Enterprise in the [[Sirius]] system. While such failures aren't unheard of, they are rare, especially among smaller craft. [[Elaine Boyd]] from the [[Federal Times]] asked a Sirius Corporation representative how the company was able to determine the cause of the accident so quickly. She was told: "The telemetry from the shuttle provided clear evidence of a stall in the computer's operation as the vessel approached the docking port. The boost protocol should have been disabled but was instead activated, causing the shuttle to crash into the station." The representative stated that the crash would be investigated further, and in particular why the software failed in this instance. Everyone onboard the shuttle was killed including Sean Richards, a senior consultant engineer who helped to compile the incident report on the recent disappearance of Starship One. Richards had also formed part of the task force some 50 years earlier with the [[Highliner Antares|Antares]] enquiry.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/55c07fd99657ba707a237d68 GalNet: Five Killed in Shuttle Accident]</ref>
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* The [[Federal Navy]] has today released its official report into the disappearance of Starship One. As expected, the 600,000 word document provides a detailed analysis of the inner workings of Starship One. The report confirms that the abnormal energy signature detected by Guardian Wing Alpha, immediately prior to Starship One's last known jump, was almost certainly caused by mechanical failure. The report includes an in depth comparison with the failure of the [[Highliner Antares]] and concludes there were remarkable similarities in the unusual failure mode, and it is still unclear why the automatic shutdown systems did not operate (most of which were not present on the Antares). The failure began with a power surge in the central [[Power Plant|power plant]] – something not especially unusual in a high capacity [[Hydrogen Fuel|hydrogen]] reactor – causing several other core systems to overload. Despite going over hours of evidence, including video feeds detailing the last several days of life aboard all four ships of Starflight One, investigators were not able to identify any signs of foul play. In the end, the team has concluded that the cause of Starship One's loss was a complex multi-stage engine failure.<ref name="MechanicalFailure" />
* The [[Federal Navy]] has today released its official report into the disappearance of Starship One. As expected, the 600,000 word document provides a detailed analysis of the inner workings of Starship One. The report confirms that the abnormal energy signature detected by Guardian Wing Alpha, immediately prior to Starship One's last known jump, was almost certainly caused by mechanical failure. The report includes an in depth comparison with the failure of the [[Highliner Antares]] and concludes there were remarkable similarities in the unusual failure mode, and it is still unclear why the automatic shutdown systems did not operate (most of which were not present on the Antares). The failure began with a power surge in the central [[Power Plant|power plant]] – something not especially unusual in a high capacity [[Hydrogen Fuel|hydrogen]] reactor – causing several other core systems to overload. Despite going over hours of evidence, including video feeds detailing the last several days of life aboard all four ships of Starflight One, investigators were not able to identify any signs of foul play. In the end, the team has concluded that the cause of Starship One's loss was a complex multi-stage engine failure.<ref name="MechanicalFailure" />
30 MAY 3301
30 MAY 3301
* It has now been 5 days since Starship One lost contact, and the search and rescue teams have yet to find any trace of the missing ship or her crew. According to Lieutenant Barringer of the Federal Transport Safety Administration: "Starship One's disappearance appears to have been caused by a major malfunction in the [[Frame Shift Drive]]'s safety systems. It looks like there was a major power surge, followed by four separate system failures in quick succession according to the data we have, resulting in a catastrophic explosion. We do not believe this explosion would have been survivable by anyone on board. The FTSA has seen each of these failures in commercial and military hyperdrives in the last few years, but each one has resulted in the drive shutting down and the ship failing to enter hyperspace. There are strong similarities with the loss of the [[Highliner Antares]] in 3251, but since then we have many more safety systems designed to prevent such failures. At the moment it looks like this was a terribly unlucky tragic accident. We have not found any evidence of tampering, and all the systems passed their automated pre-flight checks. Our condolences go out to the loved ones of those lost."<ref name="Malice" />
* It has now been 5 days since Starship One lost contact, and the search and rescue teams have yet to find any trace of the missing ship or her crew. According to Lieutenant Barringer of the [[Federal Transport Safety Administration]]: "Starship One's disappearance appears to have been caused by a major malfunction in the [[Frame Shift Drive]]'s safety systems. It looks like there was a major power surge, followed by four separate system failures in quick succession according to the data we have, resulting in a catastrophic explosion. We do not believe this explosion would have been survivable by anyone on board. The FTSA has seen each of these failures in commercial and military hyperdrives in the last few years, but each one has resulted in the drive shutting down and the ship failing to enter [[hyperspace]]. There are strong similarities with the loss of the [[Highliner Antares]] in 3251, but since then we have many more safety systems designed to prevent such failures. At the moment it looks like this was a terribly unlucky tragic accident. We have not found any evidence of tampering, and all the systems passed their automated pre-flight checks. Our condolences go out to the loved ones of those lost."<ref name="Malice" />
28 MAY 3301
28 MAY 3301
* Despite claims that the disappearance of Starship One was due to a failure in the ship's [[Frame Shift Drive]], rumours abound about a more sinister, possibly extraterrestrial explanation. Alex Snoori, host of the popular interstellar talk show Beyond Top Secret, had this to say to his listeners. "It's an outrage, that's what it is. Do you think those [[Mars|Martian]] fat cats that rule over us want you to know the truth? I don't think so. Learn your history, people. It wasn't all that long ago that our ancestors were being plucked out of the black right into the belly of [[Thargoid|bugs]]. Wake up sheeple, you don't want to be sitting around dressed up like mutton when they come for you. Do not let the government tell you lies. You're smarter than that. There's been a lot of hullabaloo about strange things being found out there recently. [[Thargoid Sensor|Weird, pulsing, alien things]]. I don't know where they came from, but I do know that they're creepy, and gross, and almost certainly dangerous. You think it's a coincidence that the President went missing just weeks after those THINGS turn up? Don't be so naive. WAKE UP sheeple, you’re being lied to."<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/8b77b16c574e3d023419b49c2a0a662d6bcc7cea GalNet: The Truth is Out There]</ref>
* Despite claims that the disappearance of Starship One was due to a failure in the ship's [[Frame Shift Drive]], rumours abound about a more sinister, possibly extraterrestrial explanation. Alex Snoori, host of the popular interstellar talk show Beyond Top Secret, had this to say to his listeners. "It's an outrage, that's what it is. Do you think those [[Mars|Martian]] fat cats that rule over us want you to know the truth? I don't think so. Learn your history, people. It wasn't all that long ago that our ancestors were being plucked out of the black right into the belly of [[Thargoid|bugs]]. Wake up sheeple, you don't want to be sitting around dressed up like mutton when they come for you. Do not let the government tell you lies. You're smarter than that. There's been a lot of hullabaloo about strange things being found out there recently. [[Thargoid Sensor|Weird, pulsing, alien things]]. I don't know where they came from, but I do know that they're creepy, and gross, and almost certainly dangerous. You think it's a coincidence that the President went missing just weeks after those THINGS turn up? Don't be so naive. WAKE UP sheeple, you’re being lied to."<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/8b77b16c574e3d023419b49c2a0a662d6bcc7cea GalNet: The Truth is Out There]</ref>
28 MAY 3301
28 MAY 3301
* [[Shadow President]] [[Zachary Hudson|Hudson]] today called an Emergency Session of [[Federal Congress|Congress]] to address concerns surrounding Starship One's disappearance. During the meeting, the Shadow President openly mocked the idea that Starship One's disappearance could have been caused by simple engine failure. "[[Jasmina Halsey|Jasmina]] and I weren't close – heck, we hated each other, and that's the truth of it. But the idea, the very notion, that our best and brightest out there on Starship One would have let that bird fly with a busted engine... No way. Those guys are military. We need to be looking for who did it. We need to nail them NOW. The assassin is busy covering their tracks while we speak. This dithering inaction and woolly thinking is typical of this administration. Let's face it Halsey had enough enemies like those [[Onion Head|onionhead]] [[Georgio Algeria|guys]], numerous frontier systems she has annoyed, and the elephant in the room – the [[Empire]]." Acting President [[Felicia Winters|Winters]] took a more levelled approach. "I appreciate the sheer gamut of emotions my esteemed colleague must be feeling, but at times like these, level heads must prevail. We have found no evidence of foul play as yet. Our engineers are sifting through copious amounts of data and so far it does look like a very unusual catastrophic failure rather than sabotage."<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/a441f3e54a8031fcd0096f0049df61b25da331fc GalNet: Emergency Session of Congress]</ref>
* [[Shadow President]] [[Zachary Hudson|Hudson]] today called an Emergency Session of [[Federal Congress|Congress]] to address concerns surrounding Starship One's disappearance. During the meeting, the Shadow President openly mocked the idea that Starship One's disappearance could have been caused by simple engine failure. "[[Jasmina Halsey|Jasmina]] and I weren't close – heck, we hated each other, and that's the truth of it. But the idea, the very notion, that our best and brightest out there on Starship One would have let that bird fly with a busted engine... No way. Those guys are military. We need to be looking for who did it. We need to nail them NOW. The assassin is busy covering their tracks while we speak. This dithering inaction and woolly thinking is typical of this administration. Let's face it Halsey had enough enemies like those [[onionhead]] [[Georgio Algeria|guys]], numerous frontier systems she has annoyed, and the elephant in the room – the [[Empire]]." Acting President [[Felicia Winters|Winters]] took a more levelled approach. "I appreciate the sheer gamut of emotions my esteemed colleague must be feeling, but at times like these, level heads must prevail. We have found no evidence of foul play as yet. Our engineers are sifting through copious amounts of data and so far it does look like a very unusual catastrophic failure rather than sabotage."<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/a441f3e54a8031fcd0096f0049df61b25da331fc GalNet: Emergency Session of Congress]</ref>
27 MAY 3301
27 MAY 3301
* At a press conference held earlier today, Acting [[President of the Federation|Federal President]] [[Felicia Winters]] made a personal appearance to address the disappearance of Starship One after failing to re-enter normal space following a routine [[hyperspace]] jump. "The disappearance of Starship One has us all on edge. Tensions are high, and the rumour mills are making all their usual noise about terrorists, aliens, conspiracies and cover-ups. I'm afraid the truth will likely get you all far fewer viewers, but it is the truth that the people of the Federation need to hear from me now. I'm told the early investigations from telemetry and uplink data suggest an explosive [[Frame Shift Drive|drive]] failure destroyed Starship One in hyperspace, catapulting all three of her protective Guardian Wing out of hyperspace. Wreckage is likely spread across interstellar space. I'm told there are parallels with the loss of the [[Highliner Antares]] way back in 3251 when she was lost with all hands on her maiden voyage. I know I remember where I was when the Highliner Antares disappeared, and I fear we will always remember where we were the day Starship One was lost. While we don’t know what caused this incident – yet – we do know that Starship One's engines experienced an unexpected surge of power just seconds before making its last jump. The search efforts will continue, of course. Our hearts and hope go out to the friends and families of President [[Jasmina Halsey|Halsey]] and all those lost yesterday in this terrible incident."<ref name="ShadesAntares" />
* At a press conference held earlier today, Acting [[President of the Federation|Federal President]] [[Felicia Winters]] made a personal appearance to address the disappearance of Starship One after failing to re-enter normal space following a routine [[hyperspace]] jump. "The disappearance of Starship One has us all on edge. Tensions are high, and the rumour mills are making all their usual noise about terrorists, aliens, conspiracies and cover-ups. I'm afraid the truth will likely get you all far fewer viewers, but it is the truth that the people of the Federation need to hear from me now. I'm told the early investigations from telemetry and uplink data suggest an explosive [[Frame Shift Drive|drive]] failure destroyed Starship One in hyperspace, catapulting all three of her protective Guardian Wing out of hyperspace. Wreckage is likely spread across interstellar space. I'm told there are parallels with the loss of the [[Highliner Antares]] way back in 3251 when she was lost with all hands on her maiden voyage. I know I remember where I was when the Highliner Antares disappeared, and I fear we will always remember where we were the day Starship One was lost. While we don’t know what caused this incident – yet – we do know that Starship One's engines experienced an unexpected surge of power just seconds before making its last jump. The search efforts will continue, of course. Our hearts and hope go out to the friends and families of President [[Jasmina Halsey|Halsey]] and all those lost yesterday in this terrible incident."<ref name="ShadesAntares" />
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* At 15:00 hours [[Universal Galactic Time|universal galactic time]] on 26th May 3301, Secretary of State [[Felicia Winters]] assumed the role of Acting [[President of the Federation]] in the wake of the disappearance of Spaceflight One<small>[''sic'']</small>. Speaking in an emergency broadcast to the nation, Acting President Winters had this to say: "It is with deep regret and some trepidation that I must come before you today to announce that contact with the President's ship, Spaceflight One, has been lost. Two days ago, Navy Command received word that the President would be taking an unscheduled detour to Azaleach. Her reasons as to why remain classified. 12 hours ago, following entry into [[hyperspace]], Spaceflight One went dark. All attempts by the President's security team to trace the vessel have met with failure. Squadrons have been scrambled in an attempt to find President [[Jasmina Halsey|Halsey]] and Vice President [[Ethan Naylor|Naylor]], and I have faith that the Navy will do everything they can to bring them home. That said, in order to maintain a clear chain of command during this time of crisis, I will be assuming the role of Acting President of the Federation effective immediately. I hope I have your support, and I hope it will only have to be a temporary measure."<ref name="Acting" />
* At 15:00 hours [[Universal Galactic Time|universal galactic time]] on 26th May 3301, Secretary of State [[Felicia Winters]] assumed the role of Acting [[President of the Federation]] in the wake of the disappearance of Spaceflight One<small>[''sic'']</small>. Speaking in an emergency broadcast to the nation, Acting President Winters had this to say: "It is with deep regret and some trepidation that I must come before you today to announce that contact with the President's ship, Spaceflight One, has been lost. Two days ago, Navy Command received word that the President would be taking an unscheduled detour to Azaleach. Her reasons as to why remain classified. 12 hours ago, following entry into [[hyperspace]], Spaceflight One went dark. All attempts by the President's security team to trace the vessel have met with failure. Squadrons have been scrambled in an attempt to find President [[Jasmina Halsey|Halsey]] and Vice President [[Ethan Naylor|Naylor]], and I have faith that the Navy will do everything they can to bring them home. That said, in order to maintain a clear chain of command during this time of crisis, I will be assuming the role of Acting President of the Federation effective immediately. I hope I have your support, and I hope it will only have to be a temporary measure."<ref name="Acting" />
26 MAY 3301
26 MAY 3301
* Reports coming in from Saga indicate that the [[President of the Federation|President]] has missed her scheduled meeting with delegates aboard Zudov Terminal. Maisy Stevenson, the leader of the Saga Republic Party, expressed her concern to [[GalNet]] in the following statement: "We were expecting Starflight One<small>[''sic'']</small> to arrive a little under 38 hours ago. An escort was sent to meet Starflight One at the prearranged location, but the ship simply didn't appear. We informed [[Mars]] and were told that the President had decided to take a last-minute detour. I understand the President's time is precious, but it would have been nice to get a little bit of advance notice. The people of Saga spent a not inconsiderable amount of time and credits preparing to greet the President, and now their hard work appears to have gone to waste. I do hope that the President manages to find time for us in her seemingly busy schedule. I would hate to think that the people of Saga had in some way been snubbed by [[Jasmina Halsey|Halsey]]."<ref name="Missing" />
*Reports coming in from Saga indicate that the [[President of the Federation|President]] has missed her scheduled meeting with delegates aboard Zudov Terminal. Maisy Stevenson, the leader of the Saga Republic Party, expressed her concern to [[GalNet]] in the following statement: "We were expecting Starflight One<small>[''sic'']</small> to arrive a little under 38 hours ago. An escort was sent to meet Starflight One at the prearranged location, but the ship simply didn't appear. We informed [[Mars]] and were told that the President had decided to take a last-minute detour. I understand the President's time is precious, but it would have been nice to get a little bit of advance notice. The people of Saga spent a not inconsiderable amount of time and credits preparing to greet the President, and now their hard work appears to have gone to waste. I do hope that the President manages to find time for us in her seemingly busy schedule. I would hate to think that the people of Saga had in some way been snubbed by [[Jasmina Halsey|Halsey]]."<ref name="Missing" />
25 MAY 3301
*After what many residents have called 'years of neglect from [[Sol]]', [[Jasmina Halsey|President Halsey]] made a brief appearance aboard Seddon Gateway yesterday. Thousands gathered to welcome the [[President of the Federation|President]] as she was ferried over from Spaceflight One. Sadly, upon arrival the President was whisked off to the bridge to meet with local dignitaries, leaving most residents to return home disappointed. [[GalNet]] sources aboard Seddon Gateway report that the President spent much of the day receiving visitors in the Captain's Cabin. Most, but not all, of the President's visitors were members of Federal organisations which still operate in and around [[78 Ursae Majoris]]. Those questioned indicated that during their meeting, the President mostly spoke about ways in which the Federation could help better support small and medium sized business interests in the area. In the evening, Seddon Gateway played host to a diplomatic dinner between President Halsey and [[Alliance Prime Minister|Prime Minister]] [[Edmund Mahon]]. The Prime Minister arrived at Seddon Gateway without fanfare at some point in the early evening. After Mahon's arrival, the two faction leaders are reported to have spent several quiet hours enjoying dinner away from the vast majority of their entourages. What the two leaders discussed during their time together remains a mystery. Spaceflight One safely departed 78 Ursae Majoris this morning, and will now be travelling to Saga in order to continue the President's tour of Federal frontier systems."<ref>[[GalNet/3301/May#President's Visit to 78 Ursae Majoris Disappointing|GalNet: President's Visit to 78 Ursae Majoris Disappointing]]</ref>
13 MAY 3301
13 MAY 3301
* The crowds were out in force on [[Mars]] today, as residents gathered to watch the presidential battlecruiser, Space Flight One,<small>[''sic'']</small> depart on the start of [[President of the Federation|President]] [[Jasmina Halsey|Halsey's]] tour of [[Federation|Federal]] frontier systems. For security reasons, the exact details of the President's itinerary are being kept secret. However, [[GalNet]] has been given permission to exclusively reveal the names of a dozen systems that President Halsey intends to visit during her trip. Those being: HIP 53688, Tinia, Aleumoxii, 78 Ursae Majoris, Dietri, Su, Furuhjelm I-645, Saga, Delphin, Nanomam, Coriccha and Ross 860. As Vice President [[Ethan Naylor|Naylor]] will be accompanying President Halsey on her trip, the Secretary of State, [[Felicia Winters|Madam Winters]], will be overseeing day-to-day operations on Mars during the President's absence.<ref name="TourLaunch" />
*The crowds were out in force on [[Mars]] today, as residents gathered to watch the presidential battlecruiser, Space Flight One,<small>[''sic'']</small> depart on the start of [[President of the Federation|President]] [[Jasmina Halsey|Halsey's]] tour of [[Federation|Federal]] frontier systems. For security reasons, the exact details of the President's itinerary are being kept secret. However, [[GalNet]] has been given permission to exclusively reveal the names of a dozen systems that President Halsey intends to visit during her trip. Those being: HIP 53688, Tinia, Aleumoxii, 78 Ursae Majoris, Dietri, Su, Furuhjelm I-645, Saga, Delphin, Nanomam, Coriccha and Ross 860. As Vice President [[Ethan Naylor|Naylor]] will be accompanying President Halsey on her trip, the Secretary of State, [[Felicia Winters|Madam Winters]], will be overseeing day-to-day operations on Mars during the President's absence.<ref name="TourLaunch" />
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