Aquarius Initiative

The Aquarius Initiative, often referred to as Operation Aquarius, represents a visionary program with an extended timeline that leverages the skills of private aviators and starship commanders. This groundbreaking strategy aims to probe and document both recognized and undiscovered realms of space. The principal objective of the initiative is the comprehensive mapping of novel star systems, laying the groundwork for prospective colonization endeavors.

To implement this bold endeavor, the initiative seeks to onboard private pilots, christened Nauta Stellarum, a Latin phrase translating to "Sailor of Stars". However, in common parlance, this title is frequently abbreviated to Nauta, serving as an alternate appellation that can replace the term 'captain'. The Aquarius Initiative is distinct in its design, constructed to fully incorporate and leverage Artificial Intelligence technology.

Contractual Obligations

The Aquarius Initiative is anchored on a contractual agreement between private pilots, termed as Private Contractors, and Solas Tempus. This contract endows the pilots with a sophisticated exploration vessel, typically an Kestrel Class Starship, and pledges the financial resources needed to facilitate the exploration of unexplored space for a minimum tenure of five years.

In exchange for the provisions offered by Solas Tempus, the private contractors commit to granting this organization exclusive primary access to any discoveries or data gathered during their voyages. They also pledge to execute specific tasks as directed by Solas Tempus or the Serenity Concord. Each private contractor engages in thorough negotiations to define the parameters and scope of the missions assigned by Solas Tempus. This careful process ensures that the assigned tasks do not pose a significant threat to their safety or adversely affect their reputation.

The contractual terms are explicit: Solas Tempus is not permitted to direct private contractors towards assignments that could endanger their lives or tarnish their reputation unless an exceptional agreement is made for a specific situation. This clause highlights the respect for private contractor autonomy and safety within the initiative's framework.

Replacing Independent Contracts

Furthermore, the Aquarius Initiative serves as a replacement for many of the standard independent contractors that Solas Tempus previously relied on, particularly those who splice in. This shift allows Solas Tempus to maintain the autonomy of the private contractors and avoid potential issues associated with their militarization.

The Aquarius Initiative is designed to provide a platform for private pilots to contribute their skills and expertise to the exploration of space without compromising their independence. By collaborating with Solas Tempus under the contractual agreement, private contractors can engage in the groundbreaking missions of the initiative while retaining their non-militarized status.

This unique arrangement ensures that private contractors can operate with a level of freedom and autonomy that was not possible in previous contracting arrangements. It allows them to focus on the exploration and scientific objectives of the Aquarius Initiative, contributing their expertise to the comprehensive mapping of star systems and the advancement of knowledge about the cosmos.

By leveraging the capabilities of private aviators and starship commanders within the framework of the Aquarius Initiative, Solas Tempus benefits from their expertise while avoiding the potential risks and challenges associated with directly integrating independent contractors into their organization. This approach allows Solas Tempus to tap into a diverse pool of talent and experience, fostering collaboration and innovation in the pursuit of their mission.

Legal and Ethical Compliance

The agreement also entails that private contractors abide by all local and interstellar laws during their missions. Private contractors are explicitly forbidden from knowingly transgressing any such regulations, with a strict emphasis on respecting sovereignty, non-interference policies, and the rules of engagement in alien territories. This adherence safeguards both the private contractors and Solas Tempus from potential legal and diplomatic repercussions.

Technological Property

Another clause within the agreement relates to the proprietary technology of Solas Tempus. It states that private contractors are prohibited from selling or trading Solas Tempus technology without explicit prior approval. This clause is critical in preventing unauthorized distribution of advanced technologies, thereby ensuring their responsible use and protecting Solas Tempus's technological edge.

Mission Types and Responsibilities

The wide spectrum of tasks and missions assigned by Solas Tempus under the Aquarius Initiative ranges from simple data collection and scouting expeditions to more complex scientific investigation and diplomatic duties.

Reconnaissance and Data Collection

These assignments predominantly involve starship pilots embarking on exploratory voyages into uncharted territories of space. The primary objective is to map these unknown areas, including cataloging new star systems, asteroids, and other celestial bodies. Additionally, they collect data on spatial anomalies and potentially habitable planets that could be future candidates for colonization.

Scientific Research

More complex assignments often entail the undertaking of scientific research missions. These could include studying anomalies, astronomical phenomena, or exotic matter in space. Some private contractors might also be tasked with conducting experiments, either with onboard equipment or by deploying remote scientific probes.

Transportation and Logistics

In rare instances, private contractors may also be called upon to perform logistical missions. These missions involve the transportation of vital cargo or personnel from one location to another. Despite its rarity, these tasks form an essential part of the diverse assignment palette, requiring the private contractors to demonstrate skill and caution to ensure the safe and timely delivery of their entrusted cargo or passengers. This could range from relocating scientific equipment to distant research stations, to transferring key personnel between strategic locations across star systems.

Diplomatic Relations

While it's quite rare, private contractors might occasionally be assigned diplomatic missions. However, these seldom involve first contact scenarios with unidentified alien civilizations. The primary focus of these missions is typically to foster and maintain harmonious relationships with previously encountered extraterrestrial societies. Such missions demand a level of diplomacy and strict adherence to established protocols to ensure peaceful and mutually advantageous interactions.

In line with a firm policy of non-interference, private contractors are expressly prohibited from meddling in local disputes, conflicts, or the internal affairs of new cultures or existing governmental and corporate entities. This prohibition is strictly enforced to prevent the unwarranted influence or disruption of other civilizations' natural development and to uphold the integrity of Solas Tempus and the Aquarius Initiative.

Rescue Operations

In times of crisis, private contractors under the Aquarius Initiative may be called upon to conduct rescue operations. These could include the search and retrieval of lost or stranded spacecraft, providing aid to colonies facing disaster, or participating in peacekeeping operations during interstellar conflicts.

It's essential to note that, while private contractors are obliged to accept specific missions from Solas Tempus as per the agreement, these assignments are negotiated with each private contractor, ensuring they are not life-threatening or damaging to the reputation of the contractor.

Ownership Structure

Throughout the duration of the five-year term, private contractors accumulate credits that contribute towards acquiring ownership of their space vessel. Typically, at the conclusion of the five-year term, the private contractor is presented with the option to fully own the vessel. However, private contractors who opt to take on riskier assignments (provided they are made available) may expedite the transfer of ownership.