PROPOSAL DZ-KJIK19RSNP

…As the Department sets its sights on distant frontiers, we must contend with the problem of survival at extremes. Our colleagues at NASA have seen great success on Project Apollo, but if we are to travel even further afield, we will face conditions even more inimical to human life.

Whether future explorers seek to dive into boiling sulfuric acid or attempt to stretch across higher dimensions, we must equip them for scientific inquiry, communication with native entities—and, above all, their mission to return safely home.

Dr. Victor Falkner

IN RE: PROPOSAL DZ-KJIK19RSNP

Dr. Falkner, ever since I saw you present your work on the Nereida ADS, I knew you were just the sort of man I'd want in the DZ department. I'm glad Purnell agreed—and I'm glad to have you with us.

We're packed to the gunwales with fancy machinery, but remote-operating some contraption from a cozy cabin is no substitute for putting boots down on the seafloor. You understand that, just as much as you understand that no discovery is worth the life of the person in those boots.

Your proposal is approved—it's on the books as Project JUNCTION ADVANCE. Assemble your team and requisition what you need. I have high hopes for you.

Director William Moffat