Encyclopaedia of the Galactic Echo

by Simon Coates

  Brief history

  Galaxis were the first company to put a spaceship on general sale, with their Solar Explorer in 2250. Powered by a nuclear engine, the ship gave a few wealthy individuals the first glimpse of personal flying in space. The ship is very rare now, with an original low mileage Solar Explorer commanding almost any price. Sunstar came along ten years later with the first ever solar powered ship, which provided travellers with a more higher performance option. Solar powered engines power more luxurious ships as this type of engine is quieter and more refined than nuclear. Other companies have entered the market, such as the unique Britus with its tremendous high speed capacity; however, the outright speed record belongs to Sunstar, with the Type C, powered by its massive 5,000 THz engine, with a record breaking top speed of 1.2 million mph. Although this had a solar engine, it was most definitely not quiet or refined!

  Spaceship manufacturers

  The following companies are involved in the construction of personal spaceships, along with details of current spaceships available to buy new.

  Britus

  The most successful Formula X racing team became a public spaceship builder in 2290 when they produced to date their only model which was designed for public use. It didn’t actually have a name, and was produced in very small numbers, with only ten being made, which was an attempt to create a public spaceship as close as possible to a Formula X racing ship. As a result, today the ship is extremely rare and valuable.

  Fellucia

  Large producer of spaceships, having a works Formula X racing team, they also manufacture freight cargo ships. Their ships for public use are big sellers as they tend to be seen as good value, a little below the luxury offered by more expensive makes. Have a reputation for very reliable and well built ships.

  Siesta - with a price tag of Cr 120,000 the Fellucia Siesta is one of the cheapest new spaceships on the market today. Powered by a 200 THz nuclear engine, the Siesta also the least powerful, but is a good choice for someone after a basic spaceship.