jan 1, 2043 - USC and Winterblossom

Description:

Those involved with the jumpgate project were all too well aware that the exploration of an alien jumpgate network could well have far-reaching consequences, including the very strong possibility of first encounters with extraterrestrials, so the United Space Command, or USC, is created with the charter to protect the planet Earth from aliens - and, equally importantly, vice versa, although "alien attacks" are not publicized to not stir up the population. Nobody really believes in danger however, except some paranoid military minorities.

The first ship of the newly-founded international space force is soon stationed in Earth orbit.

At the same time, work began on the USCSS Winterblossom, Earth's first truly interstellar
vessel. Her departure on a peaceful mission of research and exploration through the alien jumpgate network was eagerly anticipated by a planetary population swept up in a frenzy of
star-fever. Preparation took place under unprecedented levels of pressure. Message drones are invented to keep comms between the Winterblossom and Earth.

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