Chapter 2: Chapter 2

“ENGAGEMENT”

Dr. Palmer hurriedly walked down the SEA hallway and called out to certain employees, “Okay, I want all scientists going on today’s mission to meet in the conference room! First, go down to the green room at the south end of the building. You will change into a full ensemble of approved exploration suits, and then sit behind me as I answer questions of the media.”

“The takeoff’s not until ten o’clock,” responded Chris Evans, another scientist going on Quazmopolis mission. “Maybe we could just walk out a few minutes before and wave for pictures.”

“The press conference is our chance to involve the public,” answered Palmer without hesitation. “If we can get the world behind us, then we can go on many more explorations of the unexplored planets and moons in our universe. That is our mission.”

Paul Jenkins, pilot of the solar jet, seemed confused as he pulled on special equipment. “So is the crew just going to sit in the background watching you answer media questions?”

“No,” answered Palmer. “You are to look like a technical agency of scientists completely prepared to head out on the ten-day mission.”

Paul Jenkins, the chief pilot on the mission also seemed partially confused as he walked out of his office carrying his special space pants. “So why are we wearing these uncomfortable space suits for a press conference?”

Dr. Palmer then walked back, “After the press conference we will be packing supplies, preparing all technical research supplies, and testing communications. Take off is scheduled for ten o’clock, and we will load portable terminal gear in storage reserves. Prepare for admission reserves before Quazmopolis take-off.

“Yes sir,” responded Lacy as she stepped out fully dressed in the formal space uniform and carrying her helmet.

Palmer smiled at Lacy’s usual enthusiasm and continued “Boarding will commence immediately after the conclusion of the press conference. Inconsistencies or failure to comply with any of SEA regulations will result in immediate termination, before or after mission.”

Group of scientists slowly began walking out, partially dressed in formal gear and carrying their half-packed open bags for the mission. Dr. Palmer then looked down at his watch and led the group down the long hall.

Ben was looking at his watch as he crossed the line at the front door. Looking down, he saw the time change on his big screen watch to seven fifteen. Casually, Ben walked into the kitchen and poured himself a cup of black coffee. When Alice, the SEA secretary, noticed Ben at the counter, she walked up surprised. “Ben? Are you going on the mission to Quazmopolis?”

“No,” responded Ben as he took another sip. “I’ll be operating the mission documentation and aerial recording equipment directly from headquarters. As usual, I’ll be doing all the technical work... and getting no credit.”

“Hey! I appreciate your work,” answered Alice as she poured her cup of coffee. “Lacy’s going on this mission. Right?”

“Yeah. And these ten days will be the longest period we’ve been apart since the engagement. Really exciting, isn’t it?”

“And the wedding?” asked Alice in confusion. “It’s still on, right?”

Ben then thought for a second, “The wedding is scheduled for exactly two months from Saturday. My mom and my entire family have been organizing and planning this big formal ceremony and the big reception for about five months.”

“I can’t wait! I’ll be sitting in the front row. And I’ll be first in line for a dance with the groom at the reception. You can count on that!” Alice then walked out with a smile.

When the hot double serving of black coffee was finally poured into the large cup, Ben slowly made his way down the long hall and into the main SEA Headquarters. He noticed very few people and many unoccupied closed office doors and seemed surprised. Ben then unlocked the door to his office and threw his formal jacket behind the door. When he walked behind his desk, he first turned on his giant screen computer and began searching through news posts and personal emails.

The fancy computer immediately began speaking in the sexy woman’s voice, “New dating site will help you…” Ben laughed before clicking buttons and closing screens when a new ad popped up, “Buy a New Used Car today!”

When Ben finally punched up a file of SEA office memos, one document popped up. Ben clicked the icon and began hearing information about the Quazmopolis mission. Computer announced specifics, “Temperature averages on Quazmopolis will range over one hundred and seventy-five degrees, with highs hitting one fifty, and...”

When Ben clicked the screen again, the video displayed the hard rock surfaces of various bold colors, sometimes smoking under the simmering heat and sunlight. After clicking on various icons, descriptions and pictures of each of the scientists going on the exploration began flashing on the screen. Ben clicked on details of the mission, and the computer began announcing, “Scientists involved in the mission are all graduates of the Science Exploration Academy Master’s Degree program.”

Ben immediately clicked on the picture of Lacy, and the computer continued, “One girl selected for this mission is twenty-three-year-old Lacy Meaux. Lacy has a degree in Biology from the University of Louisiana. She also earned a Master’s degree from the Science Exploration Academy. Additional personal information is unknown.”

Ben looked surprised before clicking on further information about the mission. “One common side effect of a ten-day exploration is loneliness and exhaustion. Scientists have been known to react with strong feelings of hatred or love. Sensitive emotional response may lead to intense fights or personal relations with fellow crew members.”

Ben shook his head, then continued searching through files on the computer. “Trip will be made in newest technology of Forty-Seven A Solar Jet, which is able to land safely on rocky granite surface.”

Pages of information scrolled down, and voice continued starting and stopping announcements before Ben clicked on a picture of a young man. Sexy computer voice then announced, “Another young scientist involved in today’s exploration is Chris Thomas. Chris graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in Chemical Science. He has earned a Master's Degree also from Science Exploration, in the same class as other SEA scientist Lacy Meaux. Chris has a big family background in Science Exploration dating back twenty-five years, when his father helped foster the first space exploration outside the solar system. Other members of the Thomas family have worked in the US Air Force and US Space Force include sister and two cousins...”

Annoyed by the information, Ben closed the page and then opened boxes of information on other scientists on the mission. The computer continued, “Older and more experienced scientists will be studying Quazmopolis and its possible life support capabilities. The atmosphere consists of a nitrogen and oxygen base, similar to earth. Gravity on the planet is stronger, nearly doubling the weight, of any substance.”

As Ben continued selectively scrolling down the page reading information and listening to the computer, his complex desk phone rang out. Annoyed, Ben tried to ignore the sound before giving in and pressing buttons. Ben then politely spoke into the phone, “Hello. This is Ben Thomas. How can I help you?”

Alice, the receptionist finally spoke out with a confused voice, “Ben! Dr. Palmer is waiting for you and asked me to send all employees to the master hall for the press conference.”

Ben immediately pulled the phone off the hook and seemed a bit confused, “Press conference? Oh yeah. Is that now?”

“Yes, the press conference. It just started in the media room,” said Alice. “And Dr. Palmer wants all Science Exploration employees in there.”

“Oh yeah, that press conference” answered Ben. “Not a problem. You can let Dr. Palmer know I’m on my way!” Ben then put down the phone, grabbed his jacket and hurried out the door. Ben rushed down the hall and waved at Alice as he ran by.

Inside the SEA briefing room, a group of seven fully dressed scientists all sat motionless on chairs at the back of stage. Head scientist, doctor, and sponsor Dr. William Palmer stood at the podium calmly speaking. “The Quazmopolis moon was first discovered and documented seventeen years ago by qualified scientists of the space force. The revolutionary body of this “luna selene” discovery was documented with solar exploration satellites proving an atmosphere of nitrogen and oxygen similar to earth.”

In spite of raised hands in the media crowd, Dr. Palmer continued, “Exploration ships were initially not able to land on the hard granite surface due to the extra powerful gravity levels. Disposable shuttle ships landed on a hard rock surface on one stretch of land surrounded by several miles of salt water. The gravity on Quazmopolis amounts to one point seven three pounds to one metric earth pound. That means the weight of the Science Exploration explorers will be nearly double the weight on earth.”

Lacy then began calculating in her head the strength that would be required just to walk on the surface of Quazmopolis at nearly twice the weight. Weighing nearly one hundred and twenty five pounds could be like walking with a hundred pound weight over her back.

Dr. Palmer reached down to the podium and pushed a button creating a wide screen three dimensional monitor over the backs of the Science Exploration crew. With specific buttons and moving gestures over the podium, the screen began displaying shots taken from satellites of the planets in the solar system, then slowly zoomed into a close-up shot of one large moon in the solar system, Quazmopolis.

As the reporters began taking pictures and recording the realistic three dimensional video, Ben poked his head into the curtain and tried to sneak into the crowded conference room. Unnoticed, he quietly walked along the curtain to an open chair without attracting attention. Dr. Palmer looked annoyed when he noticed Ben in the audience but continued, “As I was saying, the land is a sharp rock surface comparable to a form of hard granite stone on earth. It is made up of a variety of colors, ranging from a wide spectrum of primary colors to a solid black and white.”

The pictures on the screen then showed photos and videos of the surface demonstrating a variety of unusual rock shapes and sizes with a beautiful variation of colors. From the audience, the sounds of impressed reporters rung out.

“Water on Quazmopolis is not digestible to the human body. It is condensed with salt, iron, and nitrogen chemicals similar to oceans on our planet. That natural water will be collected, processed and transformed into a beverage that can be easily digested by the Science Exploration scientists. It may not taste the same but will be fine for maintaining the constant hydration of our team.”

The studio of reporters suddenly began to laugh as Chris scrunched his nose and made a face.

That quickly ended when Dr. Palmer spun around to look at each scientist. He then continued, “During this mission, explorers will be collecting samples of the colorful stones. It is believed that much of the granite was created by volcanic explosions that occurred more than one million years ago.”

The next page on the screen was a graphic chart, which popped up with a list of numbers. “The rock surface will rapidly absorb the heat of the daytime sunlight, creating temperatures nearing one hundred and fifty degrees. Days will last about ten hours, and the nights on Quazmopolis will see temperatures dropping to twenty degrees below zero, Fahrenheit.”

“Our crew will be splitting their time going out two and a half hours before and after sunrise, and then five hours before and after sunset. The other ten hours per day will be spent documenting all discoveries, and of course sleeping.”

The reporters appeared impressed as they scribbled notes and then began raising their hands and calling for attention.

“I will now answer some questions,” said Dr. Palmer calmly as he pointed into the crowd. “Ms. Brenda, from the National Post Observer.”

“Yes,” answered the first reporter. “Will scientists be wearing a special suit for the variety of temperature changes, or will there be a time for changing?”

Dr. Palmer studied his chart before answering. “Temperatures in the morning missions will range from fifty to one hundred degrees Fahrenheit, and will be the same during the five hours in the afternoon. The suits you see will adjust temperatures against the human body from seventies to eighties, based on exterior heat and solar panels.”

“Will there be rain on Quazmopolis?” asked another reporter.

Palmer adjusted the computer screen showing faraway clouds in a strange color sky before responding, “Any showers on Quazmopolis will quickly evaporate before contacting the hard rock surface. As mentioned before, all drinking water and food will be processed and taken directly from the solar jet.”

Another reporter raising her hand yelled out her question, “Is there possibly any forms of life on Quazmopolis? Like just a plant?”

“Well, that question has been indirectly answered,” responded Dr. Palmer. “Although the atmosphere is capable of sustaining life, the temperature range cannot support any life form known to man.”

The reporters from all variations of the press were writing and recording information before Ben raised his hand and asked politely, “Have we determined a purpose for this mission?” Everyone in the room immediately turned and stared at Ben.

Dr. Palmer was annoyed by the insensitive ignorance of such a comment before walking back around to the podium. The reporters remained silent as Ben continued, “I’m just curious, since these scientists will be risking their lives in these extraneous temperatures, and the sharp granite rock surface. What exactly is the purpose of this mission?”

All attention then turned to Dr. Palmer. He seemed to be thinking of an answer as he flipped through notes on the stage, then began answering slowly. “As I mentioned earlier, the mission is in hope of possibly uncovering a new combination of elements in the rock, undiscovered ratio compounds in the atmosphere, and an attempt at planting a form of life capable of surviving the temperatures.”

Reporters looked around and appeared satisfied with the goals of the mission, while Ben leaned back also pretending to approve of the answer.

“Will living conditions be safe to the explorers?” asked another reporter.

Dr. Palmer continued, “Solar powered air conditioning will keep the jet comfortable during the day and warm at night. Scientists will also be wearing a light silk fabric material, helping to maintain body-temperatures. Helmets and boots created by Science Exploration will also be used for safety purposes. Explorers on this mission will be in Solar Jet during the cold parts of the night, and the hottest parts of the day. Other questions can be directed to the office during regular...”

As Dr. Palmer began wrapping things up, another reporter jumped up. “How much do you expect this mission to be costing?” The crowd of reporters looked to Dr. Palmer waiting for the explanation.

“My personal donations will be picking up most of the costs, and new solar powered engines will be providing all power to the jet along with breathable air, healthy water, and natural foods,” answered Palmer. “There will be no costs to taxpayers.”

Crowd of reporters seemed impressed with that answer, and Palmer continued referring to notes. “The overall mission is planned for seventeen days. Ten days on Quazmopolis and possibly one week in seclusion for tests and recovery. Thank you. That is all.” Dr. Palmer and scientists then got up and smiled at reporters as they formally left the room.

Cameras flashed, and reporters jumped up asking further questions, “What other expectations do you have?”

“Do you expect to discover anything that could be used on earth?”

“What is the possibility of losing members of the crew and the ship?”

Doors closed as Dr. Palmer exited through the hallway acknowledging the group of scientists as they walked back into SEA preparation quarters. “Please prepare for take-off in one hour. Gather and check off all sleeping required bed and bath utensils. Remember, this flight will not be returning for ten days.”

The crew walked by when Dr. Palmer called out to Ben who was hurrying up the hallway looking towards Lacy. “Ben Thomas? I’d like to speak with you.”

“But sir, I’ve got a few things I’m working on,” answered Ben. “Maybe just...”

Dr. Palmer immediately interrupted and pointed, “In my office.”

Ben watched as Lacey was walking out with other scientists fully dressed in the exploration gear. Lacy looked confused and didn’t wave back.

One of the scientists, Chris, immediately rushed up to Lacy after noticing the awkward goodbyes. “Lacy, what’s Ben so upset about? He should be thrilled that you’re even getting this opportunity.”

“He just doesn’t want to lose me for ten days. His family’s been planning this wedding for half a year, and he’s got invitations and family flights coming in from all around the world. It’s going to be a big wedding for his entire family. It’s tough for him.”

“And what about your family?”

“Actually, I don’t have much family,” answered Lacy. “At least no one interested in a wedding.”

“Well, I’ll be there. And I’ll look after you on Quazmopolis,” answered Chris as he put his hand on Lacy’s shoulder. “Ben’s got nothing to worry about!”

“I think that’s exactly what he is worried about.” Lacy smiled as they walked into mission preparation quarters and began loading the solar jet.

Ben was uncomfortably standing outside of Dr. Palmer’s office before Palmer walked up and unlocked the door. The big hi-tech room was surrounded with photos and videos on the walls, playing of a variety of spacecraft takeoffs. On the wall was also a list of degrees and Certifications awarded to Dr. Palmer.

Palmer sat down behind the desk and began sorting out files before he finally looked over at Ben, who appeared confused, politely waiting for instructions. “Ben Thomas? I would like a word with you. Please sit down.”

Ben walked over politely and sat in the chair in front of Palmer’s desk. He looked around the room and pretended to be serious. Dr. Palmer finally turned to Ben. “Do you know why you’re in here?”

“Uhh... Because you wanted to talk to me?”

“The exploration leaving today is something I’ve worked twenty-seven years to set up. Getting this solar jet ready, compounding supplies and preparing the scientists was the easy part. And now I have to deal with...”

Ben interrupted, “Dr. Palmer, I understand all that’s gone into the preparation of this mission. I’ve been going through it too, and I’m just...”

Getting angry, Dr. Palmer interrupted again, “No one understands this Quazmopolis mission. Previous missions have brought nothing but unexplained injuries and death to innocent explorers.”

“I think each mission has had an explanation...”

“There is a history of enigmatic tragedies in simple explorations of this moon and the entire solar system,” answered Dr. Palmer. He then began opening files on his computer. “Five years ago, two men inexplicably disappeared from the Cortez exploration. They were on a brief stopover from their mission from the Ambigante Solar System.”

Ben seemed annoyed by the long explanation. Dr. Palmer continued, “Two years ago, there was unexplained damage to William Dampier’s rocket jet as it just flew through the solar system. And there was never an explanation.”

“We’ve got space missions coming in and out every day. Some missions are going to have problems.”

Dr. Palmer then pulled papers from his file drawer and continued, “Last year, an unmanned satellite was sent to just take measurements of Quazmopolis. And it disappeared. No explanation was given. I’ve been wanting to explore this one moon, capable of supporting human life. It’s an untapped mystery.”

Ben was looking down and half-listening before he interrupted. “Yes sir. I’ve been studying the tragedies around Quazmopolis for more than a year now. I’ve never found any connection to this moon and the unexplained mishaps.”

“For the first time, we’re seeing satellite images showing the amazing clusters, and the beautiful variety of rock colors. It’s amazing.”

Dr. Palmer looked annoyed when he looked up to see Ben’s reaction to his detailed descriptions. “I understand you are engaged to Lacy Meaux who will be one of the explorers on this trip.”

“Oh... Yes sir,” answered Ben. “But that has nothing to do with my attitude of Quazmopolis. I’m just...”

Palmer interrupted, “Might this attitude have something to do with the scheduled marriage?”

“No sir. The wedding’s not for a couple of months. The mission will be over,” replied Ben. “I just, I mean, I just wish she wasn’t leaving right now.”

“I am sending at least one member of every sex, age and race – with no risk to family or dependents,” said Palmer. “That is a requirement. Lacy is the best girl for this job, and I believe I can trust everything she does, and every decision she makes.”

“Yes. You can trust her,” answered Ben. “Lacy is one girl everyone can trust.”

“I am willing to overlook your irrespective comments,” said Dr. Palmer as he stood up. “But I want an attitude of one hundred percent support from all SEA workers. Is that understood?”

“Yes sir,” responded Ben as he stood up. “Not a problem.”

Palmer walked over to open the door, “And you swear to me you will bring no further outbursts belittling this exploration?”

“I am one hundred percent in support of the Quazmopolis mission.”

“Then lay out the full course and supply distribution before the crew boards,” said Palmer. “Get it processed and on my computer.”

Ben jumped up and quickly made his way to the door. “I’ll have it done before take-off.”

Ben raced down the long hallway, through offices, then up to the press area to the window overseeing a group of scientific explorers wearing suits and carrying their masks. The scientists were making their way over the ramp and into the solar jet. Families were saying their goodbyes and waving from the windowed entrance. The press continued shooting video with live reporters describing the mission.

“Quazmopolis crew is now making their way out to the solar jet,” said one reporter into a microphone.

Another reporter spoke formally into the camera, “Crew members of men and women are of all ages and from countries around the world!”

Ben ran past the media and families, showed his badge, and quickly made his way over to the boarding crew. Lacy was almost onto the jet when she turned to see Ben running up.

“Lacy, wait!” yelled Ben. “I just want to tell you something before you go!”

“Oh! Ben! What is it?” answered Lacy with a confused look.

Ben struggled to talk in front of the staring scientists and media. “I just wanted to tell you. I wanted to tell you that I really... I really wish you lots of.... Lots of success on this mission.”

Scientists then laughed and continued making their way on. Other families and media shot video and continued making announcements.

“Thank you, Ben,” responded Lacy with a smile. “I’ll see you in ten days.”

“Just be careful,” Ben said as he watched Lacy walking on board the ship. “Take samples, and do everything you’re instructed to do.”

Chris stopped at the door to politely let Lacy pass in line and laughed. “I’ll watch her for you, Ben. And I’ll make sure she’s in perfect condition when she returns from Quazmopolis, whatever it takes!”

Ben was annoyed watching Chris follow Lacy through the doorway of the Solar Jet. Pilot Jenkins then pulled and sealed the jet door. Ben walked back into the area surrounded by reporters and families and quietly watched as the Solar Jet’s engines started. As the jet slowly began lifting, it looked like a helicopter without a propeller.

Inside the jet, Pilot Jenkins began speaking over P.A., “Solar Jet Forty-Seven-D is set for take-off. Next stop will be the Avant moon called Quazmopolis.”

The jet then began firing steam through engines, before moving straight up like a rocket flying high and over the ocean. Media and families began applauding. Reporters immediately approached Ben and started asking questions.

“What do you predict will come of this mission?” asked the first reporter as he pushed the microphone into Ben’s face.

“Will you miss your fiancé on a mission to this lifeless moon?” asked another reporter.

“Do you see a point in exploring Quazmopolis?”

Ben stood motionless, not listening, as he watched the solar jet disappear.