Thargoid: Difference between revisions
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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. | ||
At some point in the distant past, the Thargoids instigated a [[Guardian-Thargoid War|war]] with another intelligent species called the [[Guardian]]s over territory.<ref name=":0">[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/81bhy0/guardians_vs_thargoid_war_confirmed/ Guardian Codex 3 Decrypted. Thargoid Log - Unsuccessful Truce]</ref> Although the Guardians eventually prevailed, the Thargoids only opted to retreat because they were unprepared for a protracted campaign against a rival civilization. Thargoids and humanity have been embroiled in two wars. The [[First Thargoid War|first conflict]] occurred between 3125 and 3151, and 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|second, ongoing conflict]] began in 3303 and has been rapidly escalating with no resolution in sight, disrupting dozens of systems across the [[Pleiades Nebula]], [[Witch Head Nebula]], [[Coalsack Nebula]], [[California Nebula]], and the [[Core Systems]]. | At some point in the distant past, the Thargoids instigated a [[Guardian-Thargoid War|war]] with another intelligent species called the [[Guardian]]s over territory.<ref name=":0">[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/81bhy0/guardians_vs_thargoid_war_confirmed/ Guardian Codex 3/28 Decrypted. Thargoid Log - Unsuccessful Truce]</ref> Although the Guardians eventually prevailed, the Thargoids only opted to retreat because they were unprepared for a protracted campaign against a rival civilization. Thargoids and humanity have been embroiled in two wars. The [[First Thargoid War|first conflict]] occurred between 3125 and 3151, and 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|second, ongoing conflict]] began in 3303 and has been rapidly escalating with no resolution in sight, 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]] and the deployment of the [[Anti-xeno superweapon|Proteus Wave]] by [[Azimuth Biotech]] (an attempt to cripple the Thargoid race) in August of 3308, the Thargoids mobilised a full [[Thargoid Maelstrom|invasion fleet]], that converged on the human inhabited [[Core Systems|bubble]] later that year. | Following the battle of [[HIP 22460]] and the deployment of the [[Anti-xeno superweapon|Proteus Wave]] by [[Azimuth Biotech]] (an attempt to cripple the Thargoid race) in August of 3308, the Thargoids mobilised a full [[Thargoid Maelstrom|invasion fleet]], that converged on the human inhabited [[Core Systems|bubble]] later that year. | ||
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=== Guardian-Thargoid conflict === | === Guardian-Thargoid conflict === | ||
[[File:Barnacle large cluster.png|thumb|250px|Barnacles]] | [[File:Barnacle large cluster.png|thumb|250px|Barnacles]] | ||
The Thargoids seeded a number of planets with [[barnacles]] in what eventually became Guardian space 1 to 2 million years ago.<ref>[https://canonn.science/codex/guardians-codex/ | The Thargoids seeded a number of planets with [[barnacles]] in what eventually became Guardian space 1 to 2 million years ago.<ref name=":3">[https://canonn.science/codex/guardians-codex/ Canonn Research: Guardians Codex 1/28 : Thargoid Log – Barnacle Seeding]</ref><ref name=":0" /> Several thousand years later, the Thargoids returned and discovered that the planets they had seeded were occupied by the Guardians. The Thargoids immediately [[Guardian-Thargoid War|launched an assault]], making no effort to communicate with the Guardians. This tallies with the Thargoids' behaviour in [[human]] space.<ref>[https://canonn.science/codex/guardians-codex/ Canonn Research: Guardians Codex 2/28 : Thargoid Log – The War Begins]</ref> | ||
After the beginning of the war with the Thargoids, the Guardians were forced to make a partial retreat. They were reluctant to take up arms with the Thargoids and kept communicating with them. Eventually, they gained enough understanding of the Thargoid language to communicate. It didn't benefit the Guardians much, because the Thargoids were determined to continue hostilities.<ref name=":0" /> The Guardians were forced to employ more aggressive methods to address the Thargoid threat.<ref name=":5">[https://canonn.science/codex/guardians-codex/ | After the beginning of the war with the Thargoids, the Guardians were forced to make a partial retreat. They were reluctant to take up arms with the Thargoids and kept communicating with them. Eventually, they gained enough understanding of the Thargoid language to communicate. It didn't benefit the Guardians much, because the Thargoids were determined to continue hostilities.<ref name=":0" /> The Guardians were forced to employ more aggressive methods to address the Thargoid threat.<ref name=":5">[https://canonn.science/codex/guardians-codex/ Canonn Research: Guardians Codex 3/28 : Thargoid Log - Unsuccessful Truce]</ref> The Guardians used drones, autonomous war machines that could target anything that utilised Thargoid engineering. Remarkably, Thargoid bio-mechanical technology was engineered to recognise anything of Guardian origin.<ref name=":1">[https://canonn.science/codex/guardians-codex/ Canonn Research: Guardians Codex 4/28 : Thargoid Log – The War Machine]</ref> | ||
It appears the Thargoids entered Guardian space unprepared for a protracted military campaign, and after facing a relentless onslaught from the Guardians' war machines they were forced to retreat.<ref>[https://canonn.science/codex/guardians-codex/ 5/28 : Thargoid Log – Victory]</ref> | It appears the Thargoids entered Guardian space unprepared for a protracted military campaign, and after facing a relentless onslaught from the Guardians' war machines they were forced to retreat.<ref>[https://canonn.science/codex/guardians-codex/ Canonn Research: Guardians Codex 5/28 : Thargoid Log – Victory]</ref> | ||
=== Contact with humanity === | === Contact with humanity === | ||
[[File:First-Thargoid-Encounter-3125.png|thumb|250px|First Thargoid encounter in 3125]] | [[File:First-Thargoid-Encounter-3125.png|thumb|250px|First Thargoid encounter in 3125]] | ||
Officially, the first encounters between [[humans]] and Thargoids occurred around an [[Ammonia World|ammonia-based world]] in 3125,<ref name="GNTT">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/57ada8969657baeb6e876c6c Galactic News: The Thargoids]</ref><ref name="DW">[https://canonn.science/lore/drewwagar-the-thargoids/ Canonn Research | Officially, the first encounters between [[humans]] and Thargoids occurred around an [[Ammonia World|ammonia-based world]] in 3125,<ref name="GNTT">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/57ada8969657baeb6e876c6c GalNet: Galactic News: The Thargoids]</ref><ref name="DW">[https://canonn.science/lore/drewwagar-the-thargoids/ Canonn Research: Drew Wagar's Lore: The Thargoids]</ref><ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX49v8zYutI YouTube: The Return 2.4 Announcement - Elite Dangerous]</ref> but unverified incidents involving similar ships were reported as early as the 2810s.<ref name="EE">''[[Elite Encounters RPG]]''</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> | 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, and any survivors evacuated. 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/ | 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, and any survivors evacuated. 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_Attack_Aftermath.png|thumb|250px|The destroyed Federal fleet in HIP 17044]] | [[File:Thargoid_Attack_Aftermath.png|thumb|250px|The destroyed Federal fleet in HIP 17044]] | ||
Beginning in April, reports surfaced of Unknown Ships apparently attacking [[Federal Navy]] convoys in the Pleiades, although the mysterious vessels remained passive towards independent pilots. On June 12, 3303, [[Ishmael Palin|Professor Ishmael Palin]] issued a request for scan and wake signature data from Unknown Ships, which he compared to older Thargoid samples. Palin confirmed that Unknown Ships were Thargoid in origin. A Federal fleet seized Palin's research from Orcus Crag in Pleiades Sector OI-T c3-7, but was later found to have been destroyed by the Thargoids in the HIP 17044 system.<ref name="Return">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/5943ed6837e29c184d38b29b Galactic News: The Thargoids have Returned]</ref> | Beginning in April, reports surfaced of Unknown Ships apparently attacking [[Federal Navy]] convoys in the Pleiades, although the mysterious vessels remained passive towards independent pilots. On June 12, 3303, [[Ishmael Palin|Professor Ishmael Palin]] issued a request for scan and wake signature data from Unknown Ships, which he compared to older Thargoid samples. Palin confirmed that Unknown Ships were Thargoid in origin. A Federal fleet seized Palin's research from Orcus Crag in Pleiades Sector OI-T c3-7, but was later found to have been destroyed by the Thargoids in the HIP 17044 system.<ref name="Return">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/5943ed6837e29c184d38b29b GalNet: Galactic News: The Thargoids have Returned]</ref> | ||
On September 15, 3303, Chief of Federal Security Admiral Aden Tanner announced that another Thargoid attack had recently occurred in [[Pleiades Sector IR-W d1-55]] which resulted in the destruction of another Federal fleet, including one Farragut Battle Cruiser. While the motives for this attack were unknown, Admiral Tanner confirmed that the Thargoids were now officially considered enemies of the Federation, marking the formal start of mutual hostilities between humans and Thargoids. President Hudson gave Tanner full authority over the [[Federal Navy]] to deal with the Thargoid threat.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/59bb9793d5777560b7216455 Galactic News: Federal Capital Ship Destroyed by Thargoids]</ref> Amid speculation that Federal forces had provoked the attack, the Federation insisted that black box data from the wreckage indicated no provocation on their part; this was confirmed by the multinational xenological research group [[Aegis]], which had also analyzed data from the attack.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/59c3a0e02468d745a72f97a0 Galactic News: Federation Addresses Rumours]</ref> | On September 15, 3303, Chief of Federal Security Admiral Aden Tanner announced that another Thargoid attack had recently occurred in [[Pleiades Sector IR-W d1-55]] which resulted in the destruction of another Federal fleet, including one Farragut Battle Cruiser. While the motives for this attack were unknown, Admiral Tanner confirmed that the Thargoids were now officially considered enemies of the Federation, marking the formal start of mutual hostilities between humans and Thargoids. President Hudson gave Tanner full authority over the [[Federal Navy]] to deal with the Thargoid threat.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/59bb9793d5777560b7216455 GalNet: Galactic News: Federal Capital Ship Destroyed by Thargoids]</ref> Amid speculation that Federal forces had provoked the attack, the Federation insisted that black box data from the wreckage indicated no provocation on their part; this was confirmed by the multinational xenological research group [[Aegis]], which had also analyzed data from the attack.<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/59c3a0e02468d745a72f97a0 GalNet: Galactic News: Federation Addresses Rumours]</ref> | ||
[[File:Station Attack The Oracle.png|thumb|250px|The Oracle in the aftermath of a Thargoid attack]] | [[File:Station Attack The Oracle.png|thumb|250px|The Oracle in the aftermath of a Thargoid attack]] | ||
The Second Thargoid War entered a new phase on September 26, 3303, when independent pilots reported being attacked unprovoked by Thargoid Interceptors at [[Non-Human Signal Source]]s. The variant of Interceptor carrying out these attacks, as well as all prior interdictions, was named the 'Cyclops Interceptor'.<ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/72lzxb/so_i_just_got_killed_by_a_thargoid/ | The Second Thargoid War entered a new phase on September 26, 3303, when independent pilots reported being attacked unprovoked by Thargoid Interceptors at [[Non-Human Signal Source]]s. The variant of Interceptor carrying out these attacks, as well as all prior interdictions, was named the 'Cyclops Interceptor'.<ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/72lzxb/so_i_just_got_killed_by_a_thargoid/ reddit: So I just got killed by a Thargoid]</ref><ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/59cd17dcf030a91ca721e243 GalNet: Galactic News: Further Thargoid Attacks]</ref> Aegis began producing various experimental AX modules to fight the Thargoids on an even footing, as conventional human weapons proved useless. The Thargoids responded by deploying a more powerful variant of the Interceptor, known as the 'Basilisk Interceptor', On 13 November 3303. The arrival of even more powerful Medusae Interceptors on December 14, 3303 was accompanied by crippling attacks on three [[Starport]]s in the Pleiades: Titan's Daughter in Taygeta, The Oracle in Pleiades Sector IR-W d1-55, and Liman Legacy in HIP 16753.<ref name="GSABT">[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/5a328aebaac37e273a5d4ea8 GalNet: Galactic News: Starports Attacked by Thargoids]</ref><ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZFLBnqxuATg YouTube: Commander Chronicles - Devastation - Elite Dangerous]</ref><ref name="Station Attack">[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/7jqg5p/so_the_thargoids_attacked_a_station_images/?st=jb6b35m0&sh=f42ecad9 reddit: So the Thargoids(?) Attacked a Station. Images Courtesy of CMDR Bad_Player]</ref> | ||
[[File:Thargoid Scouts 3.1.png|thumb|250px|Thargoid Scouts]] | [[File:Thargoid Scouts 3.1.png|thumb|250px|Thargoid Scouts]] | ||
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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>http://www.rollingstone.com/glixel/features/elite-dangerous-creator-talks-sci-fi-politics-and-whats-next-w492781</ref> If the rumours 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 degrees C. Thargoids may well be acclimatised to temperatures far lower than humans.<ref | 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>[http://www.rollingstone.com/glixel/features/elite-dangerous-creator-talks-sci-fi-politics-and-whats-next-w492781 Rolling Stone: Elite Dangerous Creator Talks Sci-fi, Politics And What's Next]</ref> If the rumours 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 degrees C. Thargoids may well be acclimatised 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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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 colonise, or simply for the fun of it. In fact, the animal life on an invaded world was largely ignored unless it poses a threat to Thargoids. | 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 colonise, or simply for the fun of it. In fact, the animal life on an invaded world was largely ignored unless it poses 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/#post-10001090</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/#post-10001090 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. Understanding it could open up all kinds of possibilities. The applications are potentially limitless. 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/</ref> | 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. The applications are potentially limitless. 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 civilization]] based on the Kardashev scale. Their lack of control over the Milky Way galaxy indicates they are Type II. However, since Thargoids may originate from another galaxy, parallel [[universe]], or spatial dimension they could be 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 galaxy indicates they are Type II. However, since Thargoids may originate from another galaxy, parallel [[universe]], or spatial dimension they could be Type III. | ||
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Thargoids possess the ability to interdict human ships that are travelling through hyperspace, a feat previously believed to be impossible, as well as the ability to make untraceable hyperspace jumps and stymie any pursuers. Despite their advanced hyperspace capabilities, there is no evidence of Thargoid ships moving in [[Supercruise]], perhaps suggesting they do not have short-range FTL capabilities. | Thargoids possess the ability to interdict human ships that are travelling through hyperspace, a feat previously believed to be impossible, as well as the ability to make untraceable hyperspace jumps and stymie any pursuers. Despite their advanced hyperspace capabilities, there is no evidence of Thargoid ships moving in [[Supercruise]], perhaps suggesting they do not have short-range FTL capabilities. | ||
Thargoid ships can create stable wormholes to [[hyperspace]] (witch-space). This is used to travel astronomical distances in seconds and interdict vessels. Their vessels can hover in hyperspace so they may be comfortable with residing in this higher dimensional region.<ref>https://www.sharoma.com/frontierverse/thargoids.htm</ref><ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/7b3eyk/elite_dangerous_another_inra_base_found_linked_to/ | Thargoid ships can create stable wormholes to [[hyperspace]] (witch-space). This is used to travel astronomical distances in seconds and interdict vessels. Their vessels can 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 | </ref><ref name="DW" /><ref name="GOTT" /> | ||
===Ships=== | ===Ships=== | ||
The [[Thargoid Interceptor]] has intricate technological and biological elements<ref>[https://forums.frontier.co.uk/showthread.php/395094-Medusa-Tissue-Sample-Tissue-Sample-Prices Thargoid Medusa Tissue Sample]</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/showthread.php/395094-Medusa-Tissue-Sample-Tissue-Sample-Prices Frontier Forums: Thargoid Medusa Tissue Sample]</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, including 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. | Thargoid ship-based weaponry has proven to be very powerful, resulting in numerous destroyed Federal and Imperial vessels, including 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. | ||
[[Thargoid Mothership]]s are believed to exist. According to recovered [[INRA]] logs, one such vessel attacked the INRA base Carmichael Point in HIP 16824.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mB36F-rLlkI Elite: Dangerous: INRA Base Attacked By Thargoids]</ref> | [[Thargoid Mothership]]s are believed to exist. According to recovered [[INRA]] logs, one such 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> | ||
===Thargoid Surface Sites=== | ===Thargoid Surface Sites=== | ||
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[[File:Thargoid_Surface_Site_Scavenger_close.png|thumb|250px|Scavenger]] | [[File:Thargoid_Surface_Site_Scavenger_close.png|thumb|250px|Scavenger]] | ||
Passive drone-like devices called [[Scavenger]]s were first encountered at these locations. Analyses of Scavengers showed that they contain organic and mechanical elements such as [[Thargoid Organic Circuitry]]. This discovery led many to question whether the Scavengers were sentient creatures or simple mechanical drones created by the Thargoids as workers.<ref>[[Thargoid Organic Circuitry]] | Passive drone-like devices called [[Scavenger]]s were first encountered at these locations. Analyses of Scavengers showed that they contain organic and mechanical elements such as [[Thargoid Organic Circuitry]]. This discovery led many to question whether the Scavengers were sentient creatures or simple mechanical drones created by the Thargoids as workers.<ref>[[Thargoid Organic Circuitry]] In-Game Description</ref> | ||
[[Thargoid Sensor]]s and [[Thargoid Probe]]s were confirmed to be related to Thargoids after it was discovered that carrying them allowed doors at Thargoid Surface Sites to open. Inserting a Thargoid Sensor, a Thargoid Probe, and a [[Thargoid Link]] into an Unknown Device caused it to activate and display a holographic star map, perhaps a visual representation of how Thargoids catalogued geographical data. The other functions of these objects remain an enigma, however. Thargoid Interceptors have been witnessed retrieving them from September 26, 3303 onward. | [[Thargoid Sensor]]s and [[Thargoid Probe]]s were confirmed to be related to Thargoids after it was discovered that carrying them allowed doors at Thargoid Surface Sites to open. Inserting a Thargoid Sensor, a Thargoid Probe, and a [[Thargoid Link]] into an Unknown Device caused it to activate and display a holographic star map, perhaps a visual representation of how Thargoids catalogued geographical data. The other functions of these objects remain an enigma, however. Thargoid Interceptors have been witnessed retrieving them from September 26, 3303 onward. | ||
===Barnacles=== | ===Barnacles=== | ||
The Thargoids seed planets with organic structures called [[Thargoid Barnacle|Barnacles]], which extract resources from a [[Planets|planet]] and convert them into [[Meta-Alloys]]. This is an essential ingredient in the creation of Thargoid ships and technologies. The seeding of a region with Barnacles is a precursor to a future Thargoid invasion and occupation.<ref | The Thargoids seed planets with organic structures called [[Thargoid Barnacle|Barnacles]], which extract resources from a [[Planets|planet]] and convert them into [[Meta-Alloys]]. This is an essential ingredient in the creation of Thargoid ships and technologies. The seeding of a region with Barnacles is a precursor to a future Thargoid invasion and occupation.<ref name=":3" /> From September 26, 3303 on, CMDRs reported sightings of larger fields of so-called "Barnacle forests", sprawling clusters of multiple Barnacles in a shape vaguely reminiscent of Thargoid Surface Sites. Some of these clusters were patrolled by Scavengers.<ref>[https://forums.frontier.co.uk/showthread.php/355713-Alien-archeology-and-other-mysteries-Thread-10-The-Canonn?p=5952184&viewfull=1#post5952184 Frontier Forums: Alien archeology and other mysteries Thread 10 The Canonn?]</ref> | ||
=== Unclassified Thargoid Relic === | === Unclassified Thargoid Relic === | ||
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==Territory== | ==Territory== | ||
[[File:Thargoid-Activity-Map-Feb-3306.jpg|thumb|250px|Thargoid activity map, February 3306]] | [[File:Thargoid-Activity-Map-Feb-3306.jpg|thumb|250px|Thargoid activity map, February 3306]] | ||
The Thargoids claim territory by seeding planets and moons with Thargoid Barnacles to produce Meta-Alloys to support their activities in the area. They have an affinity for systems with [[Ammonia World]]s that are in or near [[nebulae]]. To date, the [[Pleiades Nebula]],<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/599e9f98c10d1126640e8902 GalNet: Galactic News: The Thargoid Situation]</ref> [[Witch Head Nebula]],<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5d3987933b46cd389a76fa13 GalNet: Thargoids Defend Meta-Alloy Sources]</ref> [[Coalsack Nebula]],<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5fa9414b90105502c940b29e GalNet: 'Ghost Ship' Leads Alliance to New Resources]</ref> [[California Nebula]],<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/609d356236963173f4177e37 GalNet: Mass Thargoid Strike – Emergency Declared]</ref> and two large [[Permits|permit]]-locked regions in the Col 70 Sector of the [[Spirograph Nebula]]<ref name="Canonn Probe">[https://canonn.science/codex/unknown-probe/ Canonn Research | The Thargoids claim territory by seeding planets and moons with Thargoid Barnacles to produce Meta-Alloys to support their activities in the area. They have an affinity for systems with [[Ammonia World]]s that are in or near [[nebulae]]. To date, the [[Pleiades Nebula]],<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/599e9f98c10d1126640e8902 GalNet: Galactic News: The Thargoid Situation]</ref> [[Witch Head Nebula]],<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5d3987933b46cd389a76fa13 GalNet: Thargoids Defend Meta-Alloy Sources]</ref> [[Coalsack Nebula]],<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/5fa9414b90105502c940b29e GalNet: 'Ghost Ship' Leads Alliance to New Resources]</ref> [[California Nebula]],<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/galnet/uid/609d356236963173f4177e37 GalNet: Mass Thargoid Strike – Emergency Declared]</ref> and two large [[Permits|permit]]-locked regions in the Col 70 Sector of the [[Spirograph Nebula]]<ref name="Canonn Probe">[https://canonn.science/codex/unknown-probe/ Canonn Research: The Thargoid Probe]</ref> and the Cone Sector of the [[Sanguineous Rim]]<ref>[https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/5b86af3f5efed618853e99c3 GalNet: New Thargoid Interceptor Encountered]</ref> have been identified as Thargoid territories, and have high concentrations of [[Non-Human Signal Source]]s. | ||
{{clr}} | {{clr}} | ||
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[[File:Evolution-of-the-Thargoids.png|thumb|250px|Evolution of the Thargoids]] | [[File:Evolution-of-the-Thargoids.png|thumb|250px|Evolution of the Thargoids]] | ||
*The Thargoids first appeared in the original ''[[Elite]]'' video game in 1984. | *The Thargoids first appeared in the original ''[[Elite]]'' video game in 1984. | ||
*Frontier Developments staff commented on the ''Elite Dangerous'' Kickstarter that all Thargoids are female.<ref>https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1461411552/elite-dangerous/comments?cursor=2332567#comment-2332566</ref> However, this is not yet confirmed in the lore of ''Elite Dangerous''. | *Frontier Developments staff commented on the ''Elite Dangerous'' Kickstarter that all Thargoids are female.<ref>[https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1461411552/elite-dangerous/comments?cursor=2332567#comment-2332566 Kickstarter: Elite: Dangerous/Comments]</ref> However, this is not yet confirmed in the lore of ''Elite Dangerous''. | ||
==Trivia== | ==Trivia== | ||
*The name "Thargoid" is believed to have come from the regular skit ''Captain Kremmen'' performed by radio and TV personality Kenny Everett on both his radio shows and, in animated form, on TV.<ref>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Captain_Kremmen</ref> The animated skits show the Thargoids as a species of tall, transparent creatures who are part of a highly-wealthy monarchical society.<ref>http://youtu.be/pyjKPbkkW9k?t=2m26s</ref> It is assumed that their main source of income is profiting from the sale of natural resources taken from planets they have colonised stretching thousands of light years. | *The name "Thargoid" is believed to have come from the regular skit ''Captain Kremmen'' performed by radio and TV personality Kenny Everett on both his radio shows and, in animated form, on TV.<ref>[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Captain_Kremmen Wikipedia: Captain Kremmen]</ref> The animated skits show the Thargoids as a species of tall, transparent creatures who are part of a highly-wealthy monarchical society.<ref>[http://youtu.be/pyjKPbkkW9k?t=2m26s YouTube: Captain Kremmen - 1978 (Parts 1 and 2)]</ref> It is assumed that their main source of income is profiting from the sale of natural resources taken from planets they have colonised stretching thousands of light years. | ||
*David Braben commented on the ''Elite Dangerous'' Kickstarter that should peace have ever been found with Thargoids, it would be a temporary measure, hinting at the Thargoids' eventual return in the game.<ref>https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1461411552/elite-dangerous/comments?cursor=1970411#comment-1970410</ref> | *David Braben commented on the ''Elite Dangerous'' Kickstarter that should peace have ever been found with Thargoids, it would be a temporary measure, hinting at the Thargoids' eventual return in the game.<ref>[https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1461411552/elite-dangerous/comments?cursor=1970411#comment-1970410 Kickstarter: Elite: Dangerous/Comments]</ref> | ||
==Videos== | ==Videos== | ||