Plasma Array
This article contains plot details about Galaxy on Fire.
The Plasma Array was designed by Thadellonius Moonsprocket through his knowledge of ancient schematics, and constructed by the Deep Science team. Its main components are Chromo Plasma, and four Paréah prisms, mounted onto an existing platform.
After said platform's destruction, the Plasma Array was installed onto Valkyrie's superstructure. This iteration is virtually identical to its predecessor in function, though due to Valkyrie's design as a controllable vehicle, it is mobile, and can be additionally fired from within by a pilot if remote activation is not possible.
When fired, the Array creates a circle of plasma in front of it. The plasma forms in a clockwise direction, until it reaches its starting point. The circle forms approximately 1.1km away from the array, which then stretches into the center of the desired sun from which the Supernova appeared, creating a screaming sound as it contains the Supernova.
Usage
After Khador's plan to reverse the Supernova failed, Deep Science turned to Moonsprocket, who offers insight on the Plasma Array's construction. They gather its necessary components with help from mercenary pilot Keith T. Maxwell while constructing it near the station of Var Lupra. Trunt Harval, not wanting Deep Science to put a dent in his scheme, destroys it with the Black Guard before Maxwell could stop them. Subsequently, Khador suggests using Valkyrie, as the Plasma Array's critical components are salvageable but they have no other platforms to work with. Maxwell then, after some trouble with Alice, secures the station with assistance of the Terran Federation and the Plasma Array was swiftly reconstructed. Harval and the Black Guard show up again, and during the crossfire with a small Terran Fleet, Deep Science loses remote access. Alice returns and steals it before attempting to escape, but Harval and Maxwell both pursue Valkyrie. With the station critically damaged, Alice has a change of heart and fires the Plasma Array, destroying it as a consequence of the Supernova's reversal.
Trivia
- In the SD version, the plasma formation is yellow. However, in HD and Full HD, the plasma formation is red.
- Despite its importance in the plot its ability to be controlled from within, the Valkyrie-based Plasma Array is unoccupied, which in turn allowed Alice to steal it. There are several theories that could explain this:
- Since the Terrans and Deep Science may need to reposition Valkyrie, they may have intentionally kept its mobility for convenience. As the original is practically defenseless, they may also intend to relocate the Plasma Array if it comes under attack again.
- While never mentioned in any point of the story, Deep Science was likely aware of the Plasma Array's possible destruction as a side-effect of the Supernova's implosion, which in this case destroyed Valkyrie and killed Alice. This might be why it was originally on an unmanned platform and why they did not station someone to control it manually from the inside, instead reserving that as a failsafe. If they cannot remotely fire it, another pilot, such as Maxwell, can quickly make their way in and do so manually.
Gallery
The Destruction of the Plasma Array
The Destruction of the Plasma Array
The Destruction of the Plasma Array
The Destruction of the Plasma Array
The Destruction of the Plasma Array
Concept Art
Concept Art
