Pathfinder Probe
The Federations series of unmanned Pathfinder probes date back to the days of the beginning of warp technology. Primarily an unmanned survey probe, Pathfinders are sent to systems where it is though there may be suitable worlds for colonisation and exploration in pretty much the same way the early NASA/Russian probes explored the solar system in the late 20th century. Pathfinders are small in comparison to most spacecraft, as half the vehicle is taken up with the propulsion system, and the other half with the transmitter dish and sensor array. The vehicle usually makes smaller but more frequent jumps to reach it's destination as the power cell size is kept to a minimum in order to keep weight and costs down. The scene above depicts a Pathfinder XXIII probe in orbit around a newly-discovered planet in the Epsilon Eridani system.
Specification
Special Function/Terran
Manufacturer - Various
Classification - Unmanned survey probe
Main Drive - Consolidated Warp Generator Mk VIa, McInley ion ultradrive unit
Personnel - none
Armament - none
Defence - High density plastisteel armour 2cm thick
In-service date - 2027
About this image:- December 1998, POV-Ray 3.1a.
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