The 'Achenar Challenge'
27 May 2016Darwin
I found an old copy of Galnet the other day. This article caught my attention."The Imperial capital system of Achenar has recently attracted the attention of thrill-seeking Commanders of the Pilots Federation. Achenar's third planet has become a proving ground where bragging rights are earned in what is known as the 'Achenar Challenge'.
Proctor Ulrich von Braun, whose only concern until recently was the safety of Imperial Naval Academy students during high-g training, posted the following advisory:
"The force of gravity on the surface of Achenar 3 is approximately 6.7 times that of Earth. Any who wish to hazard this so-called 'Achenar Challenge' are advised that they do so at their own risk. Pilots accustomed to landing on planets in the 3-4 g range are much more likely to alight here safely.
Underestimate Achenar 3 and you may never leave."
That would be one for the album. Must remember to take a look next time I am there. I'm sure it is not as difficult as that.
Phew, that was a bit of a rough landing. Must remember to get those thrusters serviced. Almost ended up leaving in an escape pod I thought to myself, still high on the thrill of a rather tricky landing.
After a nice cup of tea, it was time to have a look around. Must remember to take the drone cam this time.
I wonder if this was a previous pilots attempt at landing?
All this metal, glistening in the distant sunlight.
What will I tell the insurance company?
Oh heck, how will I explain this to the wife?