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The '''Thargoids''' are an intelligent, highly advanced insectoid [[species]] that have existed for millions of years. They are the only known extant spacefaring species in the Milky Way [[galaxy]] other than [[Human|humanity]].<ref>http://forums.frontier.co.uk/showthread.php?p=38820#post38820</ref> Thargoids are highly territorial and seemingly rebuff all diplomatic overtures with unmitigated hostility, but are also known to be extremely slow to adapt. | The '''Thargoids''' are an intelligent, highly advanced insectoid [[species]] that have existed for millions of years. They are the only known extant spacefaring species in the Milky Way [[galaxy]] other than [[Human|humanity]].<ref>http://forums.frontier.co.uk/showthread.php?p=38820#post38820</ref> Thargoids are highly territorial and seemingly rebuff all diplomatic overtures with unmitigated hostility, but are also known to be extremely slow to adapt. | ||
In the distant past, the Thargoids instigated a [[Guardian-Thargoid War|war]] with another sapient species called the [[Guardian]]s over territory.<ref name=":5" /> Although the Guardians eventually prevailed, the Thargoids only opted to retreat because they were unprepared for a protracted campaign against a rival | In the distant past, the Thargoids instigated a [[Guardian-Thargoid War|war]] with another sapient species called the [[Guardian]]s over territory.<ref name=":5" /> Although the Guardians eventually prevailed, the Thargoids only opted to retreat because they were unprepared for a protracted campaign against a rival civilization. | ||
The Thargoids and humanity were embroiled in two wars. The [[First Thargoid War]] (3125-3151) is believed to have ended in a human victory with the [[Intergalactic Naval Reserve Arm]]'s successful deployment of the [[mycoid]] bio-weapon. The [[Second Thargoid War]] began in 3303 (Over 152 years later) and rapidly escalated disrupting dozens of systems across the [[Pleiades Nebula]], [[Witch Head Nebula]], [[Coalsack Nebula]], [[California Nebula]] and the [[Core Systems]]. Following the battle of [[HIP 22460]], [[Azimuth Biotech]] deployed the [[Anti-xeno superweapon|Proteus Wave]] which failed to cripple the Thargoid species in August 3308. The Thargoids responded by mobilizing invasion fleets via 8 [[Thargoid Maelstrom|Maelstroms]] that converged on the human inhabited [[Core Systems|bubble]]. It culminated with the invasion of [[Sol]] by the 8th [[Thargoid Titan|Titan Cocijo]]. The war caused billions of casualties.<ref name=":4">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/6761bcd5e15c2584700ec739 Titan Cocijo Destroyed, Sol Liberated] - 18 DEC 3310 (2024) - Galnet</ref> It concluded with a human victory after the destruction of Cocijo on 18 Dec 3310.<ref name=":4" /> | The Thargoids and humanity were embroiled in two wars. The [[First Thargoid War]] (3125-3151) is believed to have ended in a human victory with the [[Intergalactic Naval Reserve Arm]]'s successful deployment of the [[mycoid]] bio-weapon. The [[Second Thargoid War]] began in 3303 (Over 152 years later) and rapidly escalated, disrupting dozens of systems across the [[Pleiades Nebula]], [[Witch Head Nebula]], [[Coalsack Nebula]], [[California Nebula]] and the [[Core Systems]]. Following the battle of [[HIP 22460]], [[Azimuth Biotech]] deployed the [[Anti-xeno superweapon|Proteus Wave]] which failed to cripple the Thargoid species in August 3308. The Thargoids responded by mobilizing invasion fleets via 8 [[Thargoid Maelstrom|Maelstroms]] that converged on the human inhabited [[Core Systems|bubble]]. It culminated with the invasion of [[Sol]] by the 8th [[Thargoid Titan|Titan Cocijo]]. The war caused billions of casualties.<ref name=":4">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/6761bcd5e15c2584700ec739 Titan Cocijo Destroyed, Sol Liberated] - 18 DEC 3310 (2024) - Galnet</ref> It concluded with a human victory after the destruction of Cocijo on 18 Dec 3310.<ref name=":4" /> | ||
== Etymology == | == Etymology == | ||
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Between the 2810s and 2840s, the [[Galactic Cooperative]] documented a significant number of ship disappearances in its space and near the [[Pleiades Nebula]]. Investigations found no evidence of foul-play, but the disappearances and hyperdrive malfunctions continued intermittently, stoking anxiety among pilots. In 2849, the first footage surfaced of one of these "encounters", with one blurry image appearing to show an alien ship with the word "THARG" on its hull. The media immediately coined the term "Thargoid" as a name for the aliens. However, no conclusive proof of the Thargoids' existence was obtained, and they faded into folklore.<ref name="EE" /><ref>Tourist Spot 0184, "First Thargoid Contact"</ref><ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/53se4s/first_thargoid_contact_22_beacon/ reddit: First Thargoid Contact - 2.2 Beacon]</ref> | Between the 2810s and 2840s, the [[Galactic Cooperative]] documented a significant number of ship disappearances in its space and near the [[Pleiades Nebula]]. Investigations found no evidence of foul-play, but the disappearances and hyperdrive malfunctions continued intermittently, stoking anxiety among pilots. In 2849, the first footage surfaced of one of these "encounters", with one blurry image appearing to show an alien ship with the word "THARG" on its hull. The media immediately coined the term "Thargoid" as a name for the aliens. However, no conclusive proof of the Thargoids' existence was obtained, and they faded into folklore.<ref name="EE" /><ref>Tourist Spot 0184, "First Thargoid Contact"</ref><ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/53se4s/first_thargoid_contact_22_beacon/ reddit: First Thargoid Contact - 2.2 Beacon]</ref> | ||
In 3111, a planetary survey team led by Professor [[Penelope Carver]] and contracted by [[Azimuth Biochemicals]] of Chukchan discovered [[Thargoid Barnacle]]s and a [[Alien Crash Site|crashed]] [[Thargoid Interceptor]] on the surface of the third planet of the Musca Dark Region PJ-P b6-1 system, near the [[Coalsack Nebula]]. Azimuth diverted a [[megaship]], the [[Adamastor]], to retrieve Carver's team and the alien samples, but the vessel was forced to depart prematurely when the survey team's base, [[Geological Survey 23B]], apparently came under attack. However, Azimuth's personnel were unprepared for one object which was recovered from the crashed Interceptor and speculated to be the pilot or control system; the object emitted a deluge of signals that interfered with human technology, causing malfunctions in the Adamastor's hyperdrive despite attempts to contain it. As the ship passed through HIP 69200, its hyperdrive failed and more fighting broke out, | In 3111, a planetary survey team led by Professor [[Penelope Carver]] and contracted by [[Azimuth Biochemicals]] of Chukchan discovered [[Thargoid Barnacle]]s and a [[Alien Crash Site|crashed]] [[Thargoid Interceptor]] on the surface of the third planet of the Musca Dark Region PJ-P b6-1 system, near the [[Coalsack Nebula]]. Azimuth diverted a [[megaship]], the [[Adamastor]], to retrieve Carver's team and the alien samples, but the vessel was forced to depart prematurely when the survey team's base, [[Geological Survey 23B]], apparently came under attack. However, Azimuth's personnel were unprepared for one object which was recovered from the crashed Interceptor and speculated to be the pilot or control system; the object emitted a deluge of signals that interfered with human technology, causing malfunctions in the Adamastor's hyperdrive despite attempts to contain it. As the ship passed through HIP 69200, its hyperdrive failed and more fighting broke out, forcing all remaining survivors to evacuate. The Adamastor consequently never reached its original destination, an undisclosed secure facility operated by Azimuth, and its autopilot steered it on an emergency return course to Chukchan at sublight speed, a journey that was not completed until 3306.<ref>[https://forums.frontier.co.uk/threads/the-stones.557446/page-2#post-8770066 Frontier Forums: "The Stones", post #24]</ref><ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/jkbz2p/crashed_sidewinder_in_system_hip_69200_logs/ reddit: Crashed Sidewinder in system HIP 69200. Logs linked to the "Ghost ship"]</ref><ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5f9aabdbc0aca338d54b3b26 GalNet: 'Ghost Ship' Arrives in Chukchan System]</ref><ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/jkeowd/secrets_of_the_adamastor_chukchan_local_news/ reddit: Secrets of the Adamastor (Chukchan local news article)]</ref><ref name="Adamastor Log">[https://forums.frontier.co.uk/threads/the-stones.557446/page-2#post-8770151 Frontier Forums: "The Stones", post #36]</ref> | ||
=== First Thargoid War === | === First Thargoid War === | ||
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[[File:Thargoid Scouts 3.1.png|thumb|250px|Thargoid Scouts]] | [[File:Thargoid Scouts 3.1.png|thumb|250px|Thargoid Scouts]] | ||
Over the course of 3304, the Thargoids continued to attack stations in a weekly cycle and also picked off remote [[settlement]]s, resulting in tens of thousands of human casualties. Initially, only stations in and around the [[Pleiades Nebula]], the Thargoids' beachhead, that were hosting Aegis research labs were targeted; at the time, the labs were analyzing Thargoid Sensors and Probes in an effort to decrypt Thargoid territorial data. The attacks steadily moved towards the [[Core Systems|core systems]], however, and on February 15, 3304, Gaiman Dock in 49 Arietis and Weyn Dock in 64 Arietis were hit, marking the Thargoids' arrival in the outer fringe of the heart of human | Over the course of 3304, the Thargoids continued to attack stations in a weekly cycle and also picked off remote [[settlement]]s, resulting in tens of thousands of human casualties. Initially, only stations in and around the [[Pleiades Nebula]], the Thargoids' beachhead, that were hosting Aegis research labs were targeted; at the time, the labs were analyzing Thargoid Sensors and Probes in an effort to decrypt Thargoid territorial data. The attacks steadily moved towards the [[Core Systems|core systems]], however, and on February 15, 3304, Gaiman Dock in 49 Arietis and Weyn Dock in 64 Arietis were hit, marking the Thargoids' arrival in the outer fringe of the heart of human civilization. Sightings and encounters with hostile [[Thargoid Scout]]s followed, as well as attacks on stations with no association with Aegis. In response to this crisis, Aegis unveiled a new initiative on March 9 called [[Eagle Eye]] which used an array of six [[installation]]s to intercept and analyze Thargoid transmissions to determine their next probable targets. Independent pilots were able to concentrate their efforts in defence of the targeted systems and prevent many attacks from occurring. | ||
On August 13, 3304, the megaship, [[The Gnosis]], flagship of the Canonn Interstellar Research Group, announced plans to jump into the permit-locked Cone Sector region for a four week tour. Despite a warning from [[Pilots Federation|The Pilots Federation]] about high concentrations of Thargoids inside the Sector, The Gnosis commenced the jump on September 6. The Gnosis was hyperdicted before it could reach its destination, and attacked by Scouts and Hydra Interceptors, a newly discovered variant of Interceptor that was stronger than the Medusae. The megaship managed to survive the attack, as pilots baited the Thargoids away using Meta-Alloys. | On August 13, 3304, the megaship, [[The Gnosis]], flagship of the Canonn Interstellar Research Group, announced plans to jump into the permit-locked Cone Sector region for a four week tour. Despite a warning from [[Pilots Federation|The Pilots Federation]] about high concentrations of Thargoids inside the Sector, The Gnosis commenced the jump on September 6. The Gnosis was hyperdicted before it could reach its destination, and attacked by Scouts and Hydra Interceptors, a newly discovered variant of Interceptor that was stronger than the Medusae. The megaship managed to survive the attack, as pilots baited the Thargoids away using Meta-Alloys. | ||
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While Aegis continued to monitor Thargoid activity and coordinate with independent anti-xeno forces, public support and confidence in the organisation progressively waned as the years of conflict wore on. In addition to a number of operational failings (such as service interruptions with the Eagle Eye network), public attention was drawn away from the Thargoid conflict by a number of high-profile domestic incidents across inhabited space, such as the slew of assassinations by the [[League of Reparation]], the [[Nine Martyrs]] bombings by the [[Neo-Marlinist Liberation Army|NMLA]] during a galactic summit, and a succession crisis within the [[Federation]] caused by the introduction of the [[Proactive Detection Bureau]] (PDB). | While Aegis continued to monitor Thargoid activity and coordinate with independent anti-xeno forces, public support and confidence in the organisation progressively waned as the years of conflict wore on. In addition to a number of operational failings (such as service interruptions with the Eagle Eye network), public attention was drawn away from the Thargoid conflict by a number of high-profile domestic incidents across inhabited space, such as the slew of assassinations by the [[League of Reparation]], the [[Nine Martyrs]] bombings by the [[Neo-Marlinist Liberation Army|NMLA]] during a galactic summit, and a succession crisis within the [[Federation]] caused by the introduction of the [[Proactive Detection Bureau]] (PDB). | ||
This tension began coming to a head in August of 3307 when the Aegis | This tension began coming to a head in August of 3307 when the Aegis megaship [[Alexandria]] disappeared and was presumed lost with all hands following a hyperspace jump, after several days fleeing from Thargoid forces. Alexandria had recently been the recipient of a large quantity of [[Guardian]] technology (following a successful collection drive with independent pilots) and it was speculated that concentration of materials from the Thargoid's ancient enemies drove their hostility. This resulted in a public inquiry into Aegis that suspended many of their day-to-day operations. | ||
In September 3307, an individual identifying themselves as [[Salvation]] (who had previously come to public attention due to his knowledge of historical research into both the Thargoids and Guardians by [[Azimuth Biochemicals]]) warned the galactic community that the Thargoids were preparing to attack the Cornsar system. This was not taken seriously given the system's distance from Thargoid territory and the lack of strategic targets. Aegis, due to its partial operational shutdown was unable to verify the report. Days later, the Thargoids indeed swarmed into the system, catching local authorities completely off-guard. Mysteriously however, the Thargoids made a sudden retreat from the system after several days of intense fighting, after which commanders found large numbers of crashed Thargoid crafts on the surface of local planets. This was proclaimed to be the work of an [[anti-xeno superweapon]] deployed by Salvation, which seemingly cleared the system in a single stroke. Salvation would go on to deploy anti-xeno weapons in other affected systems, further souring the public's view of Aegis and drawing approval of the new approach from the superpowers. | In September 3307, an individual identifying themselves as [[Salvation]] (who had previously come to public attention due to his knowledge of historical research into both the Thargoids and Guardians by [[Azimuth Biochemicals]]) warned the galactic community that the Thargoids were preparing to attack the Cornsar system. This was not taken seriously given the system's distance from Thargoid territory and the lack of strategic targets. Aegis, due to its partial operational shutdown was unable to verify the report. Days later, the Thargoids indeed swarmed into the system, catching local authorities completely off-guard. Mysteriously however, the Thargoids made a sudden retreat from the system after several days of intense fighting, after which commanders found large numbers of crashed Thargoid crafts on the surface of local planets. This was proclaimed to be the work of an [[anti-xeno superweapon]] deployed by Salvation, which seemingly cleared the system in a single stroke. Salvation would go on to deploy anti-xeno weapons in other affected systems, further souring the public's view of Aegis and drawing approval of the new approach from the superpowers. | ||
In January of 3308 Aegis was dealt a death blow by the [[Paul Baumann|Baumann Report]], published at the conclusion of the independent inquiry. The Federation, Empire and Alliance all moved to create their own anti-xeno defence forces while contributing funds previously reserved for Aegis to Salvation and his corporate partners, Taurus Mining Ventures. Despite this there was some disquiet following the engineer Ram Tah's discovery that Salvation's anti-xeno superweapon was based on data and technology from the Azimuth Biochemicals ship the [[Proteus]], and that the long defunct company had engaged in unethical research as a subcontractor for [[Intergalactic Naval Reserve Arm|INRA]], perfecting the [[Mycoid|Mycoid virus]]. Concerns were raised that the superweapons were actively drawing Thargoids into systems they were constructed in, needlessly endangering lives. Salvation claimed he was working towards the next generation of his superweapon, one which could seemingly eliminate the Thargoid threat once and for all. During this time many officers and pilots from the Federal, Sirius and Imperial Navies, as well as the [[Alliance Defence Force]], began resigning their commissions to join Salvation's cause | In January of 3308 Aegis was dealt a death blow by the [[Paul Baumann|Baumann Report]], published at the conclusion of the independent inquiry. The Federation, Empire and Alliance all moved to create their own anti-xeno defence forces while contributing funds previously reserved for Aegis to Salvation and his corporate partners, Taurus Mining Ventures. Despite this there was some disquiet following the engineer Ram Tah's discovery that Salvation's anti-xeno superweapon was based on data and technology from the Azimuth Biochemicals ship the [[Proteus]], and that the long defunct company had engaged in unethical research as a subcontractor for [[Intergalactic Naval Reserve Arm|INRA]], perfecting the [[Mycoid|Mycoid virus]]. Concerns were raised that the superweapons were actively drawing Thargoids into systems they were constructed in, needlessly endangering lives. Salvation claimed he was working towards the next generation of his superweapon, one which could seemingly eliminate the Thargoid threat once and for all. During this time many officers and pilots from the Federal, Sirius and Imperial Navies, as well as the [[Alliance Defence Force]], began resigning their commissions to join Salvation's cause. | ||
Later that month it was revealed that Azimuth Biochemicals had survived in some form and were responsible for the disappearance of | Later that month it was revealed that Azimuth Biochemicals had survived in some form and were responsible for the disappearance of Alexandria and the theft of its cargo. Azimuth had also been implicated in horrific experiments to interface captured test subjects with Thargoid crafts. The pleas of former Aegis head-researchers to reform their organisation fell on deaf ears however, as the superpowers had determined Salvation's methods were far more effective strategically. Aegis was formally shut down on January 18, 3308, with its military and xenological research responsibilities assumed by the superpowers' navies and universities. Full demobilisation of Aegis's staff, ships, and resources was expected to take several months to complete. | ||
In mid 3308, Tauris Mining Ventures formally rebranded as [[Azimuth Biotech]], confirming suspicions on how Salvation acquired such advanced knowledge of Guardian technology. Construction of the new anti-xeno superweapon (now dubbed the Proteus Wave) began construction within a [[Thargoid Surface Site|Thargoid Structure]] on moon 10 b of the HIP 22460 system. Despite public outcry about the numerous crimes Azimuth had committed over the centuries, the three superpowers and Sirius continued to back Salvation given the strategic significance of crippling the Thargoid fleet. All four factions contributed megaships, dreadnaughts and large amounts of manpower to the effort, as the vast quantities of Guardian materials imported to the system to construct the Proteus Wave drew ever larger swarms of Thargoids. | In mid 3308, Tauris Mining Ventures formally rebranded as [[Azimuth Biotech]], confirming suspicions on how Salvation acquired such advanced knowledge of Guardian technology. Construction of the new anti-xeno superweapon (now dubbed the Proteus Wave) began construction within a [[Thargoid Surface Site|Thargoid Structure]] on moon 10 b of the HIP 22460 system. Despite public outcry about the numerous crimes Azimuth had committed over the centuries, the three superpowers and Sirius continued to back Salvation given the strategic significance of crippling the Thargoid fleet. All four factions contributed megaships, dreadnaughts and large amounts of manpower to the effort, as the vast quantities of Guardian materials imported to the system to construct the Proteus Wave drew ever larger swarms of Thargoids. | ||
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On the 9th of August 3308, Azimuth Biotech deployed the Proteus Wave in HIP 22460, intending to cripple, if not outright eradicate, the Thargoids. The initial deployment was successful, with all Thargoid crafts in the system being disabled in a matter of moments. This quickly changed when an unknown energy surge of Thargoid origin began building in the Proteus Wave site. Within a minute a second detonation occurred, this time disabling all human technology and practically destroying all Guardian-based technology in the system. Moments later the Thargoids awoke and began attacking the now helpless human fleet with previously unseen aggression. | On the 9th of August 3308, Azimuth Biotech deployed the Proteus Wave in HIP 22460, intending to cripple, if not outright eradicate, the Thargoids. The initial deployment was successful, with all Thargoid crafts in the system being disabled in a matter of moments. This quickly changed when an unknown energy surge of Thargoid origin began building in the Proteus Wave site. Within a minute a second detonation occurred, this time disabling all human technology and practically destroying all Guardian-based technology in the system. Moments later the Thargoids awoke and began attacking the now helpless human fleet with previously unseen aggression. | ||
As of mid-August 3308, HIP 22460 has been declared a Hazardous Environment, having been conquered by the Thargoids who aggressively track, | As of mid-August 3308, HIP 22460 has been declared a Hazardous Environment, having been conquered by the Thargoids who aggressively track, pursue and destroy any human vessel in the system. The Proteus Wave (still active and visible from high-orbit around moon 10 b) has become the site of a major, unidentified anomaly. Guardian technology brought into the system rapidly degrades to the point of non-functionality, while human systems appear to glitch constantly in either [[Supercruise]] or normal space. Numerous debris fields from the massacre of the human fleet dot the system, along with the wrecks of [[Megaship|megaships]] and Federal and Imperial capital ships. Salvation has disappeared (presumed dead) and Azimuth Biotech has confirmed all engineers of the Proteus Wave have been slain. The superpowers and Sirius have been focused on the withdrawal of their forces and there is no longer a united front against the Thargoids, leading many to speculate the attempt to end the Second Thargoid War has instead escalated it to new heights. | ||
On August 25 3308, independent rescue teams confirmed that Salvation was killed during the HIP 22460 incident, having been present on The Bright Sentinel when the Proteus Wave activated, and the subsequent destruction of the megaship. | |||
Throughout September and October 3308, independent explorers began tracking eight mysterious anomalies which were travelling at speeds faster than light. They were named '[[Rogue Signal Source|Rogue Signal Sources']], and determined to be converging on the core systems by 4 November 3308. | Throughout September and October 3308, independent explorers began tracking eight mysterious anomalies which were travelling at speeds faster than light. They were named '[[Rogue Signal Source|Rogue Signal Sources']], and determined to be converging on the core systems by 4 November 3308. | ||
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The Federation cracking down on Thargoid worshipping cults has fueled xeno-peace movements with the Thargoids, believing that coexistence with the species is possible, and conflict can be averted with diplomacy. On 17 November 3308, a Xeno-Peace mission is launched, where the Kingfisher megaship is to travel to Hyades Sector YO-Q b5-1, and attempt to make contact with Taranis, the Rogue Signal Source that would be the first to arrive at the core systems, which is also expected to pass through Hyades Sector YO-Q b5-1. The mission was ultimately a failure, and the Kingfisher was destroyed by Thargoid ships. | The Federation cracking down on Thargoid worshipping cults has fueled xeno-peace movements with the Thargoids, believing that coexistence with the species is possible, and conflict can be averted with diplomacy. On 17 November 3308, a Xeno-Peace mission is launched, where the Kingfisher megaship is to travel to Hyades Sector YO-Q b5-1, and attempt to make contact with Taranis, the Rogue Signal Source that would be the first to arrive at the core systems, which is also expected to pass through Hyades Sector YO-Q b5-1. The mission was ultimately a failure, and the Kingfisher was destroyed by Thargoid ships. | ||
On 29 November 3308, Taranis arrived at the Hyades Sector FB-N b7-6 system, deploying a huge number of Thargoids to invade surrounding systems in a huge escalation of the war, destroying starports, settlements, and outposts, | On 29 November 3308, Taranis arrived at the Hyades Sector FB-N b7-6 system, deploying a huge number of Thargoids to invade surrounding systems in a huge escalation of the war, destroying starports, settlements, and outposts, while killing hundreds of thousands of people. Many systems are completely conquered, with stations abandoned. Taranis itself is revealed to be a large corrosive nebulae-like cloud, containing Caustic Generators and patrolling Interceptors, as well as disabling all Guardian-based weaponry within its 100 km-wide radius. The core remains a mystery, and any approaching ships are blasted back with a very strong Thargoid Pulse released from the center. The Orthrus Interceptor returns, having rarely been seen in the past. It is speculated that they are some sort of scouting vessel, gathering data for the Thargoids without participating in any combat. When engaged, the Orthrus releases a shutdown field before jumping away, leaving behind a caustic trail as it moves. | ||
By 16 December 3308, the remaining Maelstroms | By 16 December 3308, the remaining Maelstroms '''–''' Indra, Leigong, Cocijo, Oya, Thor, Rajin, and Hadad '''–''' arrived at the core systems, each deploying Thargoid fleets to invade and conquer surrounding systems. All Thargoid vessels (including Interceptors) are now completely hostile to human ships, interdicting and destroying any ships passing through conquered systems. | ||
The Federation, Empire, Alliance, and Independence forces engage in combat with the Thargoids, in some cases liberating systems from their control. This is partly thanks to the development of enhanced anti-xeno weaponry from various Engineers, and the new AX-Stabiliser from Azimuth Biotech. Nevertheless, The Thargoids continue pushing into the core systems. By this point, millions have already been killed, and many more have been displaced. | The Federation, Empire, Alliance, and Independence forces engage in combat with the Thargoids, in some cases liberating systems from their control. This is partly thanks to the development of enhanced anti-xeno weaponry from various Engineers, and the new AX-Stabiliser from Azimuth Biotech. Nevertheless, The Thargoids continue pushing into the core systems. By this point, millions have already been killed, and many more have been displaced. | ||
In December 3308, Professor Alba Tesreau | In December 3308, Professor Alba Tesreau called for Aegis to be reformed in order to fight the Thargoids, as more research is needed into research and defense projects against the Thargoids so that humanity can successfully repel them. | ||
By 20 January 3309, billions of people had already died in the war, with tens of systems having been completely obliterated. Professor Ishmael Palin and Ram Tah have collected strange artifacts from the Proteus Wave and Thargoid surface sites, working hard with other scientists to develop more countermeasures against the aliens. | By 20 January 3309, billions of people had already died in the war, with tens of systems having been completely obliterated. Professor Ishmael Palin and Ram Tah have collected strange artifacts from the Proteus Wave and Thargoid surface sites, working hard with other scientists to develop more countermeasures against the aliens. | ||
On 13 February 3309, Aegis | On the 13 February 3309, Aegis was reformed by the Alliance, Federation, and the Empire in order to ensure more cooperation, and increase research and development of anti-xeno weaponry. They begin researching into countermeasures against the Maelstrom caustic cloud. By 20 February they began testing a prototype version of a [[Caustic Sink Launcher]], designed to protect against the caustic environment within the Maelstrom. | ||
By the end of February, a total of 634 systems have been overrun by the Thargoids, while only 61 systems have been liberated by humanity from Thargoid control. Fierce fighting also broke out in the enclaves in the California and Witch Head | By the end of February, a total of 634 systems have been overrun by the Thargoids, while only 61 systems have been liberated by humanity from Thargoid control. Fierce fighting also broke out in the enclaves in the California Nebula and Witch Head Nebula. It's speculated that the Thargoids are trying to secure control of the Barnacle sites they created millennia ago. | ||
By April 3309, | By April 3309, the Thargoid fleets occupied well over a thousand systems, and the conflict has no end in sight. | ||
On 9 May 3309, the [[Thargoid Pulse Neutraliser]] | On 9 May 3309, the [[Thargoid Pulse Neutraliser]] was released to independent ships, being able to successfully negate the Thargoid Pulse released from the center of the Maelstrom. Combined with the Caustic Sink Launcher, it is now possible to successfully penetrate into the core of the Maelstrom. On the 10 May, Aegis sent armed ships equipped with Thargoid Pulse Neutralisers into each Maelstrom, on a mission to gather as much tactical and environmental data as possible about the Thargoids. | ||
[[File:Thargoid Titan.png|thumb|250x250px|Thargoid Titan]] | [[File:Thargoid Titan.png|thumb|250x250px|Thargoid Titan]] | ||
The centers of each Maelstrom | The centers of each Maelstrom were revealed to contain a [[Thargoid Titan]], gigantic motherships which act as command centers for the Thargoids. These contain a vast quanitity of Interceptors and Scouts, which are deployed to invade human star systems. The surroundings of the Thargoid Titans are permanently surrounded by a caustic cloud, protecting the center from intruders. The caustic cloud is kept replenished by the Caustic Generators, while Interceptors patrol the area and attack all human craft on sight. | ||
These events came with the deployment of [[Thargoid Hunter|Thargoid Hunters]] (which were vessels designed to fight against humans), and drone attacks against ground troops. | These events came with the deployment of [[Thargoid Hunter|Thargoid Hunters]] (which were vessels designed to fight against humans), and drone attacks against ground troops. | ||
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=== Titans === | === Titans === | ||
[[Thargoid Titan|Tanaris]] was the first Titan to be destroyed by commanders on March 2, 3310 | [[Thargoid Titan|Tanaris]] was the first Titan to be destroyed by commanders on March 2, 3310,<ref name=":0">A monumental victory for humanity! The first Titan, Taranis, has fallen! -https://twitter.com/EliteDangerous/status/1764002790194418151 (March 2, 2024)</ref><ref>Titan Tanaris Boom (March 2, 2024) - https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/1b4vu3f/titan_taranis_boom/</ref> one of the first of many major victories for humanity.<ref name=":0" /> Salvaging efforts occur after the impenetrable caustic cloud dissipates,<ref name=":0" /> which took several weeks to fully disappear. <gallery> | ||
File:Elite Dangerous Cinematic - The Thargoid War - Part II | File:Elite Dangerous Cinematic - The Thargoid War - Part II | ||
File:Elite Dangerous Cinematic - The Thargoid War | File:Elite Dangerous Cinematic - The Thargoid War | ||
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==Biology== | ==Biology== | ||
Thargoids are an insectoid species. Little is known about their physical appearance and biology, and descriptions based on encounters centuries ago have yet to be verified. Their chemistry is carbon-based, but with ammonia as the solvent rather than water.<ref>[https://archive.li/r1cmc Rolling Stone: 'Elite' Creator on Sci-Fi, Politics and His Studio's Next Big Thing], through archive.today</ref> If the | Thargoids are an insectoid species. Little is known about their physical appearance and biology, and descriptions based on encounters centuries ago have yet to be verified. Their chemistry is carbon-based, but with ammonia as the solvent rather than water.<ref>[https://archive.li/r1cmc Rolling Stone: 'Elite' Creator on Sci-Fi, Politics and His Studio's Next Big Thing], through archive.today</ref> If the rumors are true that they come from [[Ammonia World|Ammonia-based planets]], then their physiology is drastically different from humans. For example, ammonia boils at -33°C, compared to water's boiling point of 100°C. Thargoids may well be acclimatized to temperatures far lower than humans.<ref name="DW" /> They are presumed to be highly intelligent, more than the average human due to their superior technological capabilities. | ||
This indicates they may have evolved in a harsh, low-temperature environment, which might explain their overdeveloped survival instincts and aggressive nature. Since the Thargoids are experts in bioengineering, they could have augmented their own biology and superseded natural evolutionary processes.<ref name="GOTT" /> | This indicates they may have evolved in a harsh, low-temperature environment, which might explain their overdeveloped survival instincts and aggressive nature. Since the Thargoids are experts in bioengineering, they could have augmented their own biology and superseded natural evolutionary processes.<ref name="GOTT" /> | ||
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===Wreckage=== | ===Wreckage=== | ||
[[File:Thargoid Scout Interior Sideview.jpg|thumb|250px|Thargoid Scout Interior Sideview]] | [[File:Thargoid Scout Interior Sideview.jpg|thumb|250px|Thargoid Scout Interior Sideview]] | ||
The wreckage of a [[Thargoid Scout]] and | The wreckage of a [[Thargoid Scout]] and an [[Thargoid Interceptor|Interceptor]] at [[Thargoid Titan|Titan]] graveyards show that these are organic vessels.<ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/1hvcdmg/the_interior_of_a_scoot_thargoid/ The interior of a Scoot Thargoid] - Esaren_ - Reddit - 6 Jan 2025 </ref> The anatomy of a destroyed [[Thargoid Titan|Titan]] consists of organic parts, meaning that Thargoid vessels are grown rather than assembled. | ||
==Society== | ==Society== | ||
[[File:Thargoid-and-Diamondback-Ships.png|thumb|250px|Thargoid ship confronting a Diamondback Scout]] | [[File:Thargoid-and-Diamondback-Ships.png|thumb|250px|Thargoid ship confronting a Diamondback Scout]] | ||
Not much information | Not much information is known about Thargoid society or culture. The only known fact is that the society is hive based, with no sense of close family. It is thought that the society is divided into colonies, possibly along the lines of ant colonies. The Oresrian and Klaxian dynasties may be two such colonies.<ref name="EDP" /> | ||
Thargoids are thought to have a natural affinity with space, and with [[Hyperspace]] in particular. This is due to the fact that Thargoid warriors seem to spend a large amount of time in space. Naval pilots and crews report that the warships in the war zones are encountered on repeated occasions over a period of months often without respite. | Thargoids are thought to have a natural affinity with space, and with [[Hyperspace]] in particular. This is due to the fact that Thargoid warriors seem to spend a large amount of time in space in comparison to humans. Naval pilots and crews report that the warships in the war zones are encountered on repeated occasions over a period of several months often without respite. | ||
At some point, the Oresrian and Klaxian dynasties became embroiled in a civil war. Prior to 3303, the Klaxians gained the upper hand in this conflict and forced the Oresrians into a slow, continuous retreat across the galaxy, a retreat which will take them directly through human space. [[The Club]] has learned that the Oresrians planned to use human | At some point, the Oresrian and Klaxian dynasties became embroiled in a civil war. Prior to 3303, the Klaxians gained the upper hand in this conflict and forced the Oresrians into a slow, continuous retreat across the galaxy, a retreat which will take them directly through human space. [[The Club]] has learned that the Oresrians planned to use human civilization as a "bullet shield" to occupy the Klaxians' attention while they escaped deeper into space. This poses a potentially apocalyptic threat to humanity's survival.<ref name="EDP" /> | ||
==Politics== | ==Politics== | ||
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Nothing is known about internal Thargoid politics or government, or why the Oresrians and Klaxians have come into conflict. | Nothing is known about internal Thargoid politics or government, or why the Oresrians and Klaxians have come into conflict. | ||
Thargoid relations with other species, as far as what is currently known, was frighteningly simple: war. The Thargoid invasions usually seemed to be prompted by the need for either agricultural or mineral resources, rather than a sociological, anthropological need to expand or | Thargoid relations with other species, as far as what is currently known, was frighteningly simple: war. The Thargoid invasions usually seemed to be prompted by the need for either agricultural or mineral resources, rather than a sociological, anthropological need to expand or colonize, or simply for the fun of it. In fact, the animal life on an invaded world was largely ignored unless it posed a threat to Thargoids. | ||
The above one-sided view has come under severe criticism lately; human Thargoid advocates are pointing out that the actions taken by the Thargoids have always been purely defensive in spite of their obvious technological capability. Conflict has typically arisen from other races (first Guardians, lately humans) moving into territory with existing Thargoid sites and seedings (see Barnacles), stealing and destroying Thargoid property.<ref>[https://forums.frontier.co.uk/threads/they-arent-here-to-kill-us-an-overly-long-analysis-of-thargoid-behaviour.610643/ Frontier Forums: They aren't here to kill us (an overly-long analysis of Thargoid behaviour)]</ref> | The above one-sided view has come under severe criticism lately; human-Thargoid advocates are pointing out that the actions taken by the Thargoids have always been purely defensive in spite of their obvious technological capability. Conflict has typically arisen from other races (first Guardians, lately humans) moving into territory with existing Thargoid sites and seedings (see Barnacles), stealing and destroying Thargoid property.<ref>[https://forums.frontier.co.uk/threads/they-arent-here-to-kill-us-an-overly-long-analysis-of-thargoid-behaviour.610643/ Frontier Forums: They aren't here to kill us (an overly-long analysis of Thargoid behaviour)]</ref> | ||
==Technology== | ==Technology== | ||
Thargoid technology is extremely advanced and predicated on a unique melding of organic and inorganic components. [[INRA]] chief scientist [[Bexley Prince]] asserted that Thargoid technology is far ahead of humans | Thargoid technology is extremely advanced and predicated on a unique melding of organic and inorganic components. [[INRA]] chief scientist [[Bexley Prince]] asserted that Thargoid technology is far ahead of humans; understanding it could open up all kinds of possibilities, with potentially limitless applications. His logs were found at the INRA base Hollis Gateway.<ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/75axlh/inra_planetary_base_found_on_hermitage_4_a/ reddit: INRA Planetary Base found on Hermitage 4 A]</ref> | ||
It is unclear whether Thargoids are a Type II or [[Elite Universe#Type III Civilizations|Type III | It is unclear whether Thargoids are a Type II or [[Elite Universe#Type III Civilizations|Type III civilization]] based on the Kardashev scale. Their lack of control over the Milky Way indicates that they should be Type II. However, since Thargoids may originate from another galaxy, parallel [[universe]], or spatial dimension they could be considered Type III or even Type IV. | ||
The decoded [[Guardian]] logs reveal that Thargoids engineered their bio-mechanical technology to | The decoded [[Guardian]] logs reveal that Thargoids engineered their bio-mechanical technology to recognize anything of Guardian origin during the Guardian-Thargoid conflict. Millions of years after the conflict, Thargoid devices and ships still react aggressively to the presence of Guardian technology.<ref name=":1" /> | ||
[[File:Thargoid-Spires-Meta-Alloys.jpg|thumb|250px|Thargoid Barnacles and Meta-Alloys]] | [[File:Thargoid-Spires-Meta-Alloys.jpg|thumb|250px|Thargoid Barnacles and Meta-Alloys]] | ||
The Thargoids construct most of their structures and ships using [[Meta-Alloys]], [[Thargoid Resin]], and [[Thargoid Biological Matter]]. The Meta-Alloys serve as a base that provides structural integrity and counters the caustic effects of the versatile Resin, which is | The Thargoids construct most of their structures and ships using [[Meta-Alloys]], [[Thargoid Resin]], and [[Thargoid Biological Matter]]. The Meta-Alloys serve as a base that provides structural integrity and counters the caustic effects of the versatile Resin, which is utilized in both solid and liquid forms. Destroyed Thargoid ships vent a cloud of vaporized Resin, which is highly corrosive. The Biological Matter's purpose in Thargoid structures is unknown, but it might be used as an analogue to wiring and electronic systems in human ships and serve as the "nerves" of a Thargoid vessel. | ||
===Interstellar travel=== | ===Interstellar travel=== | ||
[[File:Thargoid-Wormhole.png|thumb|250px|Thargoid wormhole]] | [[File:Thargoid-Wormhole.png|thumb|250px|Thargoid wormhole]] | ||
Thargoids possess the ability to interdict human ships that are | Thargoids possess the ability to interdict human ships that are traveling through hyperspace, a feat previously believed to be impossible, as well as the ability to perform untraceable hyperspace jumps and stymie any pursuers. They are also capable of some form of supercruise, as they can be spotted in supercruise in Thargoid controlled systems near the surfaces of planets (orbital cruise), having an orange-ish tint to the light they emit instead of the normal blue from human ships. | ||
Thargoid ships can create stable wormholes to [[hyperspace]] ( | Thargoid ships can create stable wormholes to [[hyperspace]] (witch-space). This is used to travel astronomical distances in seconds and interdict vessels. Their ships also have the capability to hover in hyperspace so they may be comfortable with residing in this higher dimensional region.<ref>[https://www.sharoma.com/frontierverse/thargoids.htm Sharoma: Thargoids]</ref><ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/7b3eyk/elite_dangerous_another_inra_base_found_linked_to/ reddit: Elite: Dangerous: Another INRA Base Found, Linked To Hyperdrive Research] | ||
</ref><ref name="DW" /><ref name="GOTT" /> | </ref><ref name="DW" /><ref name="GOTT" /> | ||
== Ships == | == Ships == | ||
The [[Thargoid Interceptor]] has intricate technological and biological elements<ref>[https://forums.frontier.co.uk/threads/medusa-tissue-sample-tissue-sample-prices.395094/ Frontier Forums: Medusa Tissue Sample, Tissue Sample Prices]</ref> such as [[Thargoid Heart]]s which can repair hull damage. [[Thargoid Scout]]s lack these Hearts and are vulnerable to conventional human weapons, but the Regenerator variant of the Scout can remotely repair damage to other Thargoid ships. | The [[Thargoid Interceptor]] has intricate technological and biological elements,<ref>[https://forums.frontier.co.uk/threads/medusa-tissue-sample-tissue-sample-prices.395094/ Frontier Forums: Medusa Tissue Sample, Tissue Sample Prices]</ref> such as [[Thargoid Heart]]s which can repair hull damage. [[Thargoid Scout]]s lack these Hearts and are vulnerable to conventional human weapons, but the Regenerator variant of the Scout can remotely repair damage to other Thargoid ships. | ||
Thargoid ship-based weaponry has proven to be very powerful, resulting in numerous destroyed Federal and Imperial vessels, | Thargoid ship-based weaponry has proven to be very powerful, resulting in numerous destroyed Federal and Imperial vessels, as well as capital ships. Commanders who reported being attacked by Thargoid Interceptors have noted they lost their ships very quickly under an onslaught of powerful missiles and [[Thargon]] drone swarms. | ||
According to recovered [[INRA]] logs, a [[Thargoid Titan]] vessel attacked the INRA base Carmichael Point in HIP 16824.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mB36F-rLlkI YouTube: Elite: Dangerous: INRA Base Attacked By Thargoids]</ref> | According to recovered [[INRA]] logs, a [[Thargoid Titan]] vessel attacked the INRA base Carmichael Point in HIP 16824.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mB36F-rLlkI YouTube: Elite: Dangerous: INRA Base Attacked By Thargoids]</ref> | ||
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==Thargoid Surface Sites== | ==Thargoid Surface Sites== | ||
[[File:Thargoid-Surface-Site.png|thumb|250px|Thargoid Surface Site]] | [[File:Thargoid-Surface-Site.png|thumb|250px|Thargoid Surface Site]] | ||
[[Thargoid Surface Site]]s demonstrate the Thargoids | [[Thargoid Surface Site]]s demonstrate the Thargoids' ability to construct vast structures. The purpose of these sites is unknown, but the interiors of several have been found to contain machines classified as Unknown Devices in a centralized chamber. [[Thargoid Egg]]s can be found around and inside these sites. It is unknown what produces these eggs or what gestates inside them. | ||
[[File:Thargoid_Surface_Site_Scavenger_close.png|thumb|250px|Scavenger]] | [[File:Thargoid_Surface_Site_Scavenger_close.png|thumb|250px|Scavenger]] | ||
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|- | |- | ||
|[[Hyperdiction]] | |[[Hyperdiction]] | ||
|[[Pleiades Nebula| | |[[Pleiades Nebula|Pleiades]], [[Witch Head Nebula|Witch Head]] and [[Coalsack Nebula]] | ||
|- | |- | ||
|[[Megaship]] | |[[Megaship]] | ||
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|- | |- | ||
|[[Non-Human Signal Source]] | |[[Non-Human Signal Source]] | ||
|[[Pleiades Nebula| | |[[Pleiades Nebula|Pleiades]], [[Witch Head Nebula|Witch Head]] and [[Coalsack Nebula]] | ||
|- | |- | ||
|[[Signal Source|Static Signal Source]] | |[[Signal Source|Static Signal Source]] | ||
|[[Core Systems|Bubble]], [[Pleiades Nebula| | |[[Core Systems|Bubble]], [[Pleiades Nebula|Pleiades]], [[Witch Head Nebula|Witch Head]] and [[Coalsack Nebula]] | ||
|- | |- | ||
|[[Thargoid Surface Site]], [[Thargoid Spire]] | |[[Thargoid Surface Site]], [[Thargoid Spire]] | ||
|[[Pleiades Nebula| | |[[Pleiades Nebula|Pleiades]], [[Witch Head Nebula|Witch Head]] and [[Coalsack Nebula]] | ||
|} | |} | ||