The Explorer arrived in Mars orbit, where it rendezvoused with a lander capable of conveying crew and cargo safely down through the atmosphere to the surface. Although JE had reserved several habitat modules for its use, the logistics of assigning various functions to available spaces and setting up equipment accordingly, kept the crew very busy for more than a week. At long last, with most of the clutter neatly stowed, they could finally settle down and begin taking in the Martian ambiance.
Olympia and Galileo gazed through the big window in the new work lounge, admiring the Martian landscape. “Although I miss the old space station, I've got to admit this beautiful panorama really brightens my mood. At least there's sunlit sky and actual land, rather than endless empty space. Why, it almost reminds me of Earth!” Olympia mused. “But I'm still really upset by the attack on the station – hard to believe it's really gone, forever....”
Galileo chimed in: “Exactly how I feel too! The entire crew remains in a state of shock, despite the distraction of all the stuff we had to do just to set up shop here on Mars. At the same time, we should feel far less vulnerable here, since the Martian colonies have joined forces to establish very robust defenses, despite their political differences and squabbles.” They both grew quiet, lost in their thoughts while continuing to stare at the landscape outside.
Finally Olympia perked up: “Well, at least we enjoyed this little respite! Seaplane, despite being an old codger, rarely kicks back for long. The upcoming staff meeting should set the stage for our new agenda. The old station is gone, and now we face an entirely new world!” She paused, then walked across the room: “By the way, it's supper time … how does this new food printer work?”
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