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 initiative operates on the premise of an agreement between the private pilots and Solas Tempus. This contract furnishes the pilots with a sophisticated exploration vessel, typically an Archer Class Starship, and guarantees the financial backing required to support the exploration of uncharted space for a minimum duration of five years.
In return, the pilots undertake to grant Solas Tempus exclusive first rights to any discoveries or information accrued during their travels. Further, they consent to execute specific assignments as directed by Solas Tempus or the Serenity Concord. These missions are meticulously negotiated with each pilot to ensure the tasks neither pose a significant threat to their lives nor tarnish their reputation.
Dimensional Fold Drive
One of the notable technologies at the disposal of Solas Tempus is the Dimensional Fold Drive, a key feature of the Archer Class Starship. In the scope of the Aquarius Initiative, the drive's potential for time travel is intentionally restrained through the application of several hardware and software blockades.
The contractual terms strictly forbid the pilots from utilizing the drive system for time travel or allowing anyone apart from Solas Tempus to inspect, scrutinize, or conduct any maintenance on the drive system. However, pilots have the discretion to request the removal of the DFD system and have it substituted with a comparable Warp Drive system.
Ownership Structure
Throughout the duration of the five-year term, pilots accumulate credits that contribute towards acquiring ownership of their space vessel. Typically, at the conclusion of the five-year term, the pilot is presented with the option to fully own the vessel. However, pilots who opt to take on riskier assignments (provided they are made available) may expedite the transfer of ownership.