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1995-05-16
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66 lines
SPACE STATIONS
**************
All space stations are registered with the GalCo-Op at every world and are in
orbit at various altitudes above each planet. The first was in orbit around
Lave by 2752. The most common type, Coriolis stations, are hexagonal in
shape. Vass, Forn and Berger’s dodecahedral space stations, known as Dodos,
are reliant on Photospec Nuclear fuels and so it is unlikely that they will
ever be developed on lower Tech Level planets. Both superstructures rotate
around a single axis which rises vertically from the mother planet below. The
access tunnel is located on the side of the station facing the planet.
All stations have powerful defensive shields, a huge fleet of Viper fighters,
and several larger ships. It is unwise to test lasers or missiles on any
station. Combat practise does not exist in space and memories of PraCom
should be forgotten. There are more final and painful punishments than
detentions for dealing with those who shoot within station zones. The
authorities do not ignore unruly behaviour, and destroy within thirty
seconds.
THE PROTECTIVE ZONE
===================
As soon as the Cobra’s computer receives beacon signals from the nearest
orbital Coriolis or Dodo, the familiar S will appear. The compass will track
this space station in preference to the target planet. Once the Cobra is
within the protective range of the station, a grey club will appear on the
scanner. This represents the space station and should be used to locate the
entrance (or LetterBox). Ships flummoxed by the complex rotation matching are
said to be boxing. If the S disappears then the Cobra has moved out of the
protective range. Be careful, space station’s defences are no longer
guaranteed to defend the harassed.
DOCKING
=======
Manual Docking
--------------
Docking is not easy. The Navy Training Manual offers the following advice:
Locate and approach the Coriolis or Dodo space station. LetterBoxes to all
stations face the mother planet. Fly near to the station and then on towards
the planet. Note altitude at all times. When the LetterBox can be seen slow
to a minimum. Now turn a half circle to orientate the Cobra to face the
entrance.
Approach the LetterBox with care. Begin to control the Cobra’s roll motion
manually to match the rotation of the station. The more accurate boxing will
result in the cleanest docking. Ensure that the LetterBox appears to be
horizontal.
Computer Assisted Docking
-------------------------
Despite these copious instructions, more lives are lost during docking than
combat. This difficult procedure is simplified by docking computers stocked
at Tech level 8+. This complex unit is fitted to the ship’s flight control
system and automatically navigates flight to the station, boxing, and
docking. During this manoeuvre the pilot has full control for firing and
avoiding other ships. Press C to engage the unit and D to switch off. The
computer will use yaw boosters (if fitted) for tri-axial orientation.
Alternatively for craft without docking computers, stations with a Tech level
9+ offer RentaDock. Activate this with C but be warned, certain planets
charge extortionate rates for this service.