Thomas Brent Rippy

Celestial Reflections Thomas Brent Rippy

The year is 2089. Fifty-six years have passed since we first arrived on Mars. Setting up our second residence on Mars was difficult to say the least. With the eventual arrival of the first relief ship, the MS-6, the people of Earth regained their excitement and hope for this new home. Familiar faces along with faded memories were part of the ship's cargo. Troubles and complications continued. These were met face to face with the bravest of heroes. Lives were lost, but the resilience of the new residents pulled it through. For over 40 years, terraforming Mars has been at the forefront of activities and budgets. Progress has been flying along quicker than anyone has expected. Breathable air and drinkable water are continuing to migrate their way around the Martian planet as the new atmosphere begins to take shape. Population has steadily increased. Biodomes on Mars have expanded out from the original MS-4 outpost. This progress continues today to create a new renaissance of innovation. Scientist have unlocked the door to speeds that exceed light. Even information can be sent and received at speeds beyond all expectations. Getting to and from Earth went from taking months to mere hours. Communications are in real time. Even a new outpost on Saturn's moon, Titan, has been established. It was just a few years ago, a message from a planet in a nearby solar system was received. While "Terraforming Mars" continued to be the headline, communications were secretly established with this new planet. Only the Earth's leaders and the United Space Program knew what was going on. With a close vote, they felt it was best to share this news with everyone. With all sorts of safeties and precautions in place, it was decided that Akeria Link's daughter, Captain Catherine Links Whitacre, and her immediate family, would lead this mission to establish a handshake with our new neighbors. Now, we venture out to face this unknown. Together as one. Together with hope.