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Devlog#5


Welcome to the devblog for "Dark Moon," where we delve into the intricate world of our game's graphic style. In this installment, we'll explore how the visual aesthetics of "Dark Moon" are more than just pixels and polygons—they're the very essence of the game's identity. Drawing inspiration from the dystopian ambiance of "Blade Runner 2049," our aim is to craft a visual experience that plunges players into a realm of existential dread and awe-inspiring desolation. Join us as we unravel the artistic tapestry that defines the haunting allure of "Dark Moon."





Inspirations

While "Blade Runner 2049" serves as a foundational pillar of inspiration for "Dark Moon," our creative palette draws from a constellation of cinematic marvels. Films like "Interstellar," "Passengers," "The Martian," "Space Man," "Far from Home," and "Mortal Engines" have all contributed their hues to the canvas of our imagination. From the haunting desolation of interstellar voids to the mechanical marvels of dystopian societies, each of these works has left an indelible mark on our vision for "Dark Moon."

The solitary struggles of astronauts adrift in the cosmos, the gritty realism of Martian landscapes, and the relentless pursuit of survival amidst the ruins of civilization—all find echoes in the corridors of our game world. By weaving together these diverse strands of inspiration, we aim to create a visual tapestry that not only pays homage to its predecessors but also forges its own path through the cosmos of gaming aesthetics.

fragment from Game Development Document

The game will feature a dark and heavy mood as indicated by the title. The atmosphere will be established by a brutalist sci-fi art style reminiscent of the movie “Blade Runner 2049”. Bleak aesthetics of the lunar landscapes mixed with enormous machines moving through the silvery plains should invoke the feeling of existential insignificance, which adds to the robust character arcs and the exploration of human nature in the story.





Art Style

In "Dark Moon," the graphic style is a testament to the intricate dance between nature and technology, where every creation pays homage to the sublime wonders of the natural world. Drawing inspiration from the awe-inspiring beauty of nature, each entity in the game is a fusion of organic elegance and mechanical precision.



Robotic arachnids scuttle across the lunar surface, their metallic exoskeletons echoing the graceful movements of spiders weaving their intricate webs. Drones take flight with the delicate grace of butterflies, their wings shimmering with iridescent hues as they flit through the air on their silent missions.

Transport vessels lumber across the landscape like colossal beetles, their armored shells gleaming in the harsh lunar sunlight as they ferry their precious cargo across the desolate plains.
But amidst the echoes of nature's beauty, there is an undeniable sense of otherworldly strangeness to be found in "Dark Moon." Each creation is a testament to humanity's hubris, a reflection of our desire to bend the natural world to our will. And yet, amidst the steel and silicon, there remains a glimmer of the sublime—a reminder that even in the darkest reaches of space, the wonders of nature still hold sway.



In "Dark Moon," the graphic style is a symphony of stark contrasts and haunting beauty, echoing the themes of existential dread and industrial grandeur. At its core lies a fusion of brutalist architecture and sci-fi futurism, reminiscent of towering edifices and sprawling megacities. Lunar landscapes, bathed in the silvery glow of distant stars, stretch out in desolate majesty, while colossal machinery looms on the horizon, casting long shadows across the barren plains.

The visual aesthetic of "Dark Moon" is defined by its meticulous attention to detail, from the intricate rust and decay of abandoned structures to the gleaming chrome of futuristic technology. Every pixel is imbued with a sense of history and purpose, hinting at the untold stories that lie buried beneath the lunar dust.

Lighting plays a crucial role in shaping the atmosphere of "Dark Moon," with harsh, angular shadows cutting through the darkness like knives. Neon hues punctuate the gloom, casting an eerie glow on the steel and concrete monoliths that dominate the landscape.



But amidst the desolation and decay, there is a haunting beauty to be found in the ruins of humanity's ambition. The juxtaposition of natural wonders and industrial marvels creates a sense of awe and wonder, inviting players to explore every corner of this hauntingly beautiful world.

In "Dark Moon," the graphic style isn't just a backdrop—it's a character in its own right, shaping the player's experience and immersing them in a world where every shadow hides a secret and every reflection holds a glimpse of the sublime.



Mood and Emotions

In "Dark Moon," the mood is a haunting symphony of emptiness and isolation, a relentless tide that sweeps players into a world devoid of warmth or companionship. Against the backdrop of vast, empty expanses and the distant glow of Earth on the horizon, players are confronted with the crushing weight of loneliness and the gnawing ache of homesickness.

The lunar landscape stretches out before them, a barren wasteland devoid of life or laughter. There are no bustling cities or bustling markets here, only the cold embrace of endless silence and the distant hum of machinery. The absence of human presence only serves to amplify the sense of desolation, as players wander through the ruins of civilization, haunted by the specter of what once was.



But amidst the emptiness, there is a constant sense of threat—a feeling of being hunted, of being pursued by forces beyond comprehension. The harsh glare of the sun beats down relentlessly, forcing players to seek shelter in the shadows, to retreat into the darkness in a desperate bid for survival.

And yet, amidst the darkness, there is a glimmer of hope—a flickering flame of defiance that refuses to be extinguished. For in "Dark Moon," players are not alone. They are the last survivors of a dying world, the final remnants of a civilization on the brink of collapse. And as they struggle to make sense of their surroundings, to find meaning in the chaos, they are driven by a desperate desire to confront their demons, to confront the darkness within, and to find redemption in the face of oblivion.





Graphic Techniques

In "Dark Moon," the visual experience is crafted using a palette of cutting-edge graphic techniques designed to immerse players in a world of stark beauty and haunting desolation. Drawing from the latest advancements in rendering technology, our team has employed a variety of techniques to bring the lunar landscape to life in stunning detail.

One of the key techniques used in "Dark Moon" allows to simulates the behavior of light and materials in a physically accurate manner. This allows us to achieve realistic lighting and material effects, from the gleaming metallic surfaces of robotic constructs to the rough, weather-beaten textures of lunar rock formations.



Dynamic lighting is another crucial element of the game's visual aesthetic, with real-time lighting and shadow effects adding depth and atmosphere to every scene. As players navigate the lunar landscape, they'll witness the shifting interplay of light and shadow, casting eerie silhouettes across the barren plains and abandoned structures.

In addition to traditional 3D rendering techniques, "Dark Moon" also makes use of advanced shader effects to create visually striking environments. From the ethereal glow of neon signage to the subtle distortion of heat haze rising from the lunar surface, these shader effects add an extra layer of immersion to the game world, blurring the line between reality and illusion.

But perhaps the most powerful technique employed in "Dark Moon" is the use of atmospheric effects to convey mood and emotion. From the oppressive glare of the sun to the suffocating darkness of the lunar night, these atmospheric effects serve to heighten the sense of isolation and despair, enveloping players in a world where every shadow holds a secret and every ray of light offers a glimmer of hope.





Artistic Concepts

In "Dark Moon," the artistic concepts serve as the foundation upon which the visual identity of the game is built. Drawing inspiration from a myriad of sources, our team has crafted a world that is both hauntingly beautiful and eerily familiar, a landscape where the remnants of humanity's ambition are scattered amidst the desolation of the lunar surface.

At the heart of our artistic concepts lies a commitment to realism and authenticity, tempered by a sense of artistic license that allows us to push the boundaries of imagination. From the towering spires of abandoned megacities to the rusted hulks of derelict spacecraft, every detail is meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of awe and wonder in the player.



The visual aesthetic of "Dark Moon" is defined by its fusion of disparate elements, blending the cold, industrial beauty of sci-fi futurism with the organic elegance of nature. Robotic constructs are inspired by the graceful movements of animals, with arachnoid drones scuttling across the lunar landscape like mechanical spiders and transport vessels lumbering through the darkness like armored beetles.



In addition to its thematic inspirations, "Dark Moon" also draws from a rich tapestry of artistic styles and cultural influences. From the stark minimalism of brutalist architecture to the intricate ornamentation of steampunk design, these influences converge to create a world that is at once familiar and alien, inviting players to explore every corner and uncover its secrets.

But perhaps the most important concept underlying the artistic vision of "Dark Moon" is the idea of storytelling through visuals. Every scene, every object, every texture is imbued with meaning, hinting at the rich tapestry of lore and legend that lies beneath the surface. Through the careful use of color, composition, and symbolism, we aim to create a world that not only captivates the eye but also resonates with the soul, inviting players to lose themselves in its depths and discover the truth that lies hidden within.





Summary

In "Dark Moon," the convergence of artistic vision and technological prowess has given rise to a world of haunting beauty and existential despair. Drawing inspiration from a myriad of sources, from the dystopian landscapes of "Blade Runner 2049" to the awe-inspiring wonders of nature, our team has crafted a visual experience that is as immersive as it is evocative.

From the towering spires of abandoned megacities to the desolate expanses of the lunar surface, every detail has been meticulously crafted to convey a sense of isolation and desolation. Dynamic lighting, advanced shader effects, and atmospheric techniques work in concert to create an environment that is as oppressive as it is awe-inspiring, enveloping players in a world where every shadow holds a secret and every ray of light offers a glimmer of hope.



But amidst the darkness, there is a flicker of defiance—a reminder that even in the face of oblivion, there is beauty to be found, and hope to be kindled. In "Dark Moon," players are invited to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery, to unravel the mysteries of a world on the brink of collapse and uncover the truth that lies hidden within. It is a journey that will test their courage, their resilience, and their humanity, as they confront their demons and forge a new destiny amidst the ruins of a dying world.





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Devlog#4 presents MoonNews

In a recent development from the lunar exploration front, astronauts aboard MoonShell's pioneering Mechaplex have reported eerie signals emanating from the moon's surface. These signals, described as both radio transmissions and peculiar rhythmic "tappings," have left experts puzzled about their origin and significance.





MoonShell, at the forefront of lunar exploration, has not taken these signals lightly. Instead, their engineers have been hard at work devising a groundbreaking solution to unravel this lunar enigma. Presenting the Echo Locator, a specialized device designed to pinpoint and track these mysterious sounds. This innovative technology is slated for installation aboard the prototype Mechaplex, MoonShell's latest lunar spider.





The Echo Locator promises to revolutionize our understanding of these lunar signals, allowing MoonShell to precisely locate their source and investigate their nature. In a recent interview, MoonShell representatives emphasized that while they do not entertain notions of extraterrestrial origins for these signals, they believe the discovery holds immense potential. The signals, they speculate, could lead to the localization of buried objects and specialized containers hidden beneath the lunar regolith, potentially containing emergency supplies left there by historic lunar missions.





Moreover, the Echo Locator will serve a dual purpose by enabling the detection of emergency distress signals emitted by specialized capsules. These capsules act as shelters for astronauts in case of unforeseen dangers, providing a vital lifeline in the harsh lunar environment.





As MoonShell continues to push the boundaries of lunar exploration, the unveiling of the Echo Locator marks a significant leap forward in our quest to unlock the secrets of Earth's celestial companion. With its deployment imminent, anticipation mounts as humanity stands on the cusp of unraveling yet another lunar mystery.





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Devlog#3 presents MoonNews

In a groundbreaking development for lunar settlers, MoonNews is thrilled to report on the latest achievement in the Moon's healthcare infrastructure—an advanced, automated medical system designed to address injuries and illnesses unique to life in space.

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[h3]Challenges of Lunar Living[/h3]

Living and working in space pose unique challenges to the health of astronauts and colony residents. Microgravity environments can lead to bone density loss, muscle atrophy, and altered cardiovascular function. Exposure to cosmic radiation and confinement in space habitats also present potential health risks, including increased susceptibility to certain diseases.
Of course, the astronaut must take into account standard injuries, such as fractures, cuts and other wounds. Despite many efforts, Earth's bacteria and viruses reached the colonies, so standard diseases such as flu, poisoning, etc. often affect our astronauts. Let's remember that a sick astronaut is an unproductive astronaut. An astronaut needs more care and uses more resources, so getting him back to health is definitely one of MoonShell's priorities.





[h3]Cutting-Edge Medical Technology[/h3]

The newly implemented medical system employs state-of-the-art scanners capable of comprehensively analyzing every aspect of the human body. From bone density to organ function, these scanners provide a detailed health profile for each individual. The system can swiftly identify anomalies, symptoms, and potential health issues.





[h3]Diagnosis and Treatment Recommendations[/h3]

Upon completion of the scan, the system utilizes artificial intelligence to interpret the gathered data. It not only diagnoses existing medical conditions but also predicts potential health risks based on the lunar environment. Users receive a comprehensive report detailing their health status, potential risks, and recommended preventive measures.



[h3]Comprehensive Treatment Options[/h3]

MoonNews can confirm that the medical system goes beyond mere diagnosis. It offers a spectrum of treatment options, ranging from conventional medical procedures to cutting-edge interventions. Standard medical treatments available on Earth are complemented by advanced procedures such as organ transplants and bionic enhancements.
Of course, some treatment methods are more effective than others, and may also be more or less risky to the patient's life. The availability of treatment methods may also depend on the availability of additional technologies or items that cannot always be produced on the Moon. Let us remember that, unfortunately, despite effective treatment, some diseases can leave a permanent mark on the health of our astronauts, so each of them must be very careful.





[h3]Lunar Psychological Challenges[/h3]

The isolation and confinement of lunar life, coupled with the psychological impact of extended space travel, can give rise to a spectrum of mental health issues. Conditions such as space-induced anxiety, depression, and cognitive stress may affect the mental well-being of lunar colonists. Understanding and addressing these challenges are critical for ensuring the mental resilience of the lunar community.





[h3]Automated Psychiatric Interventions[/h3]

The newly integrated psychiatric system employs cutting-edge therapies, including cognitive-behavioral interventions and psychotropic medications, tailored to the unique needs of lunar settlers. Automated counseling sessions, mood regulation protocols, and stress management programs are designed to provide ongoing mental health support.





[h3]Impact on Interpersonal Dynamics[/h3]

MoonShell explores the potential impact of psychological disorders on the communal life of the lunar colony. Conditions such as space-induced anxiety might affect teamwork, communication, and overall social dynamics. Recognizing and treating these issues promptly is crucial for maintaining a harmonious and productive lunar community. We should also mention more serious disorders or traumas that may result in loss of control over oneself, which may lead to aggressive attacks, destruction of objects and buildings, arson, or acts of aggression towards oneself or other astronauts.



[h3]Specialized Treatments for Lunar Mental Health[/h3]

MoonNews has learned that the psychiatric component is equipped to handle a range of mental health conditions, offering personalized treatment plans. From therapeutic interventions to psychotropic medications and, in severe cases, advanced brain surgeries, the system aims to provide lunar colonists with the best possible mental health care.





[h3]Revolutionizing Lunar Healthcare: A Holistic Approach to Well-being[/h3]

With this groundbreaking healthcare system, the lunar colony is poised to set new standards for the well-being of its inhabitants. MoonNews commends the collaborative efforts that brought this revolutionary technology to the Moon, ensuring that the pioneers of space exploration can enjoy optimal health during their lunar endeavors. The addition of the psychiatric component marks a significant step forward in ensuring the holistic well-being of lunar colonists. MoonNews applauds the efforts to address mental health challenges in the lunar environment, acknowledging the importance of both physical and psychological health for the success of long-term lunar habitation.



Stay tuned to MoonNews for further updates on the ever-evolving frontier of lunar living!


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Devlog#2

Dear readers,
Get ready for an enlightening conversation with the satellite engineer, Przemek Recha! Join us as we discuss the intricacies of constructing the satellite that was successfully launched into orbit this November.



Przemek Recha

Professionally, he is involved in programming embedded systems in satellites at KP Labs, where, among others, he programmed subsystems for the Intuition-1 satellite. He works in the Silesian Aerospace Technologies scientific club, where students try to conduct space-related events. He also co-organizes an event on space topics, We Need More Space in Gliwice.



Interviewer: Przemek, in November the satellite you worked on was launched into space - could you tell us more about it?

Przemek: Intuition-1 is a technology demonstrator whose main goal is to demonstrate the capabilities of on-orbit data processing using machine learning. The satellite is equipped with a hyperspectral optical instrument designed by KP Labs and a Leopard data processing unit (DPU).
An optical instrument equipped with a hyperspectral matrix can produce images that provide much more data about the imaged area than the classic RGB matrix used in cameras. The classic RGB matrix divides the visible band into 3 colors, and the hyperspectral matrix divides the visible band into 192 channels. This resolution allows, for example, to infer what substances/chemical compounds are present in the imaged area, so it’s possible to assess the condition of agricultural fields based on satellite images.

The Leopard data processing unit is a system dedicated to calculations using machine learning. Leopard is equipped with a redundant 4-core 64-bit system integrated with an FPGA matrix. The FPGA matrix allows the implementation of any logical structure in the system, which allows for a significant acceleration of calculations.

Using machine learning to process data in orbit allows for a significant reduction in the volume of data sent to Earth. Imaging an area of approximately 50 km x 100 km with a hyperspectral matrix generates approximately 16 GB of data. Sending such an amount of data via satellite radio links — which aren’t the fastest, mind you — would take very long. The use of machine learning allows you to reduce this size by 200 times and even reject photos that pose no real value because, for example, they are cloudy.

The Leopard data processing unit; source: KP Labs

Interviewer: What exactly were your tasks?

Przemek: I dealt with both the software for the On-Board Computer (OBC) Intuition-1 and the software for the Leopard data processing unit.

It is important to emphasize here the difference between the on-board computer and the data processing unit. The main tasks of the on-board computer include:

autonomous deployment of antennas and solar panels after leaving the deployer during the LEOP phase (Launch and Early Phase Orbit); controlling other components of the satellite, e.g.: the power system (EPS - Electrical Power System), the orientation system (ADCS - Attitude Determination and Control System), the communication system and the payload (in the case of Intuition-1, this is optical instrument and Leopard); radio communication – sending telemetry, receiving and executing telecommands, detecting errors in subsystems and disabling them when the allowed telemetry ranges are exceeded (FDIR - Fault Detection, Isolation and Recovery); enabling software updates.
In addition, the on-board computer should be capable of continuous and failure-free operation and is equipped with systems that ensure such operation, but details will be provided below.
The programmer’s task may also include programming a controller for a specific device; telecommands to operate this device via radio; and – above all else – writing operational tests of the device. They will allow us to test its function on the ground as best as possible, while we still have a lot of time to fix any errors.

Leopard, on the other hand, is a completely different system. It is turned on for several minutes at most, just to perform imaging or data processing. Normally, it is turned off to save energy. Additionally, Leopard runs the Linux operating system. However, it is not a desktop Linux, like Ubuntu or Debian, but rather a distribution specifically prepared for this platform. It is equipped with the tools we need to work and has a minimized size. The minimum image takes 30 MB. And I also worked on preparing the Linux distribution for the Leopard.



Interviewer: Let's talk about the moment of the rocket launch - can you tell us more about what it looked like?

Przemek: Intuition-1 was launched on the Transporter 9 mission on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on November 11 from Vandenberg Air Force Base. Transporter missions involve carrying large amounts of cargo with one rocket. Over 100 satellites were launched during this mission.

The very moment of the start is very exciting! Of course, the whole team gathered at the KP Labs office and together we watched the stream from the rocket launch. The most nerve-wracking are the first 2 minutes of the launch, when the first stage of the rocket is working. Any unexpected failures and explosions most often occur during this stage. When the second stage begins, you can relax a bit and just wait for the payloads to be released.



Interviewer: What does the satellite placement process look like?

Przemek: Intuition-1 is a satellite built in the CubeSat standard. These are small-sized satellites. In our case, it is 10cm x 20cm x 30cm, or a standard shoe box. Of course, SpaceX is not interested in such small payloads, so several such CubeSats are collected and loaded onto "space tugs" (Space tug, or OTV - Orbital Transport Vehicle). Such a ship with several CubeSats is just being placed on the rocket. About an hour after the rocket launch, the ship is released and then the Space Tug operators releases the loaded CubeSats one by one.

During the journey, the satellite hides in a dedicated pod. The power is turned off, and the antennas and solar panels are folded. After it is released from the container, the power is turned on and the on-board computer’s task is to autonomously deploy the antennas and solar panels. After the antennas are deployed, the first radio messages are broadcast by the satellite and we can hear them on our ground station in the KP Labs office.

Visualization of Intuition-1 in orbit; source: KP Labs

Interviewer: So your satellite is already working? How do you use it?

Przemek: The release from the container took place on November 24, and on the same day, we received the first messages. From this point on, the commissioning phase of the satellite's subsystems begins and checks whether everything works properly. At this point, we have already managed to run the machine learning algorithms, which were performed successfully in orbit (https://twitter.com/labs_kp/status/1730158325000544420). We are currently working on calibrating the ADCS system so we can take stable photos. Once this process is complete, we will be able to take optical instrument images and perform full hyperspectral image processing in orbit.

Interviewer: What are the latest technologies and assumptions in the construction of future satellites?

Przemek: At KP Labs, we focus mainly on designing data processing units that use artificial intelligence to process data. Of course, what the data will be depends on the specific application of the data processing unit. We mainly focus on image processing, as in the case of Intuition-1, but also on the processing of telemetry data, which allows for early detection of failures in satellites.

Recently, artificial intelligence and machine learning have been developing rapidly and systems dedicated to supporting such calculations are being created. The challenge, however, is to adapt such a system to operate in space. Such a system must be prepared to operate in a hostile environment for which it has not been adopted. We are talking here both about cosmic radiation, to which the system will be constantly exposed. Solutions must be implemented to avoid the effects of this radiation. The other matter is the power demand in such systems. They release a large amount of heat, which must be skillfully dissipated.



Interviewer: There was a large solar explosion at the end of November - NASA issued a warning about it. Could you tell us more about this phenomenon?

Przemek: This is a coronal mass ejection, in which a star throws a cloud of plasma into interplanetary space, consisting mainly of protons and electrons. Such a cloud can be thrown towards the earth, then it interacts with the Earth's magnetic field and we can, for example, observe the aurora borealis.

Interviewer: How do solar flares affect satellites?

Przemek: Let’s start with what impact it may have on satellites, or better yet, let’s talk about what impact cosmic radiation may have on satellites, so we can imagine what may happen to a satellite that will be in the stream of protons and electrons after a coronal mass ejection.
Firstly, the silicon structure from which electronic components are made is constantly degrading under the influence of radiation. Each electronic component will stop working after receiving a sufficiently high dose of radiation.

Secondly, there are so-called SEE - Single-event effects, which result from the fact that a charged particle hitting an electronic element can change the internal state of the element's transistors. These effects can be both non-destructive, e.g.: a bit in the memory register changes, which leads to data corruption, or a transistor shorts out, which increases the current consumption of the system. Simply reset the power to this chip to remove these effects. There are also destructive effects, which cause the system to be short-circuited so that a high enough current will flow through it to destroy the device.
Now we can imagine what condition a satellite bombarded with protons and electrons might be in. Will it then work properly? This is doubtful. But will this destroy it? This is not necessarily the case.



Interviewer: How to protect your satellites from solar flares?

Przemek: First of all, it is taken into account what the mission is and how long it will last. If it is a few months in low Earth orbit, where the satellites are still protected by the Earth's magnetosphere, we can even use ordinary Earth electronics without any protection and our mission of several months will probably be fine. It looks completely different when we want to survive in space longer, or even fly further: to the moon or deep space.

Systems must be selected that will withstand the expected radiation dose for the length of the mission. The systems are tested to find out what radiation doses they can withstand and they can be selected accordingly. You can also test the systems to see if they contain harmful SEE and not use such systems.
Some systems are designed specifically for use in space missions. Due to the process of their creation, these systems are characterized by a very high total radiation dose that the system can absorb before it is damaged. Such systems are called radiation-hardened.

We can still use a few tricks to protect our data from damage by cosmic radiation. It is standard, for example, to use ECC correction codes in memories. This is additional data stored in memory that allows the data in memory to be corrected if it is corrupted by cosmic rays. Another popular mechanism is TMR – Triple Modular Redundancy. It involves the triple duplication of any data that is fed to a dedicated system that performs voting, which compares the input data and, in the event of irregularities, recognizes the majority of data as correct.



Interviewer: What would our lives be like if all satellites suddenly stopped working?

Przemek: We probably don’t even realize how much satellite technologies make our lives easier. But if they suddenly stopped working, I’m sure we would notice it quickly and the effects would be very negative. Just imagine that telecommunications, GPS, weather forecasts and everything that relies on these systems suddenly stopped working. This certainly guarantees widespread chaos.

Interviewer: In Dark Moon we move several dozen years forward, to the times when humanity colonized the Moon. The game begins with a massive explosion in the Sun, after which all electronics in sunlight stop working. How real do you think this scenario is?

Przemek: Considering what I said earlier on how much importance it is attached to ensuring that devices sent into space are resistant to space conditions, I rather doubt that everything, literally everything, would stop working. I could imagine that some devices and services are interrupted, or that non-critical infrastructure is damaged in some way. Apart from that, electronics are electronics, but you also need to ask yourself if people in such colonies are properly protected from radiation, because it may also affect them if this protection is not sufficient.

Interviewer: If you were in this situation, on the moon, what would your survival plan be? Or maybe you’d try to return to Earth?

Przemek: If all the electronics are damaged, well, I guess I can only admire the lunar landscapes. However, if the lunar electronics survived and the Earth’s electronics didn’t, then it all depends on whether the lunar base is self-sufficient. If not, it is best to return to Earth as soon as possible, because it may turn out that the return will be difficult after some time. If it is, then I can start visiting the Moon and not worry about survival. I just hope I won’t be alone there.



Interviewer: Do you think the number of satellites orbiting the Earth would affect the size of the disaster in the event of a solar explosion?

Przemek: Let’s move away from whether or not this is possible for a moment, let’s just assume that the satellites stop working and we lose all the services I mentioned earlier, and let’s ask ourselves what will happen to these several thousand satellites in low Earth orbit. If there were only a few of them, we probably wouldn’t have to worry, but with such a quantity, it can be a serious problem. There are already cases of satellites entering a collision course with each other. Fortunately, these are often satellites capable of on orbit maneuvers, so they can avoid each other. But when we lose contact with them, it will be a matter of time before some of them collide. When they do, a huge amount of debris will be created, which can hit subsequent satellites, cluttering up the orbit even more, and very quickly leading to a situation where we won’t even be able to conduct space flights anymore, because the orbit will be so cluttered. This scenario is called Kessler syndrome.



Interviewer: When do you think man will set foot on the Moon again and when will he most likely establish the first permanent base there?

Przemek: We live in interesting times as the race to the Moon has begun again. The Americans are running the Artemis program, according to which they plan to land on the Moon again in 2025 and start operating a lunar space station. We also see the development of space architecture, which seeks solutions to problems related to a permanent base on the Moon. Considering how much it is developing, I would be happy if such a base was created somewhere around 2030-2040.


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Devlog#1 presents MoonNews

We are thrilled to extend an invitation for a series of interviews with the dedicated individuals at MoonShell, a pioneering company focused on lunar colonization and exploration. We are excited to initiate this series by conducting our first interview with the remarkable Moritz "Hund" Jung.
Moritz Jung, a renowned entrepreneur, has left his terrestrial businesses and earthly life behind. He embarked on a new journey, obtaining an astropilot license, and is now serving as a manager at MoonShell's lunar base. His transition and experiences promise an intriguing story, and we can't wait to delve into his remarkable journey on the Moon.
We believe that his insights and experiences will not only be enlightening but also inspirational to our audience. We look forward to exploring the intricacies of lunar life, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and the future of lunar colonization through Mr. Jung's perspective.
This interview series aims to shed light on the compelling world of MoonShell and the individuals driving innovation and progress on the lunar frontier. Mr. Jung's story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the pursuit of new frontiers.



Interviewer: Good day, Moritz. Thank you for taking the time to speak with us. Let's start with your past. There have been rumors about your involvement in illegal weapon trade during the Resource Wars. Can you comment on this?
Moritz: Well, you know how rumors can be. People like to create stories. I can assure you that there's no official information to support such claims. I've always been focused on the future, not dwelling on the past.

Interviewer: Your nickname, Hund, has an interesting history. Could you tell us more about its origin?
Moritz: (Chuckles) Ah, the infamous nickname. Back during those chaotic times, I was known for my relentless determination to overcome any obstacles in my way. It's true; I didn't let anything or anyone stand in the way of my goals. Hence, the name.

Interviewer: Some years ago, you survived an assassination attempt that left you with robotic prosthetics. How has that experience affected you?
Moritz: Surviving that attempt was no small feat, and I've come to appreciate life even more. My prosthetics may make me look like a machine to some, but I'm still very much human. I've learned to be more cautious, but I haven't let it deter me from pursuing my dreams.

Interviewer: You've been a manager of a European lunar base and a proponent of Martian colonization. Can you tell us more about your ambitions in space exploration?
Moritz: I believe that space exploration is our future. We must expand beyond Earth to ensure the survival of our species. I've always been an advocate for pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Mars colonization is just the beginning, and I aim to be a part of it.

Interviewer: Moritz, I understand your keen interest in the moonshell technology. Could you share what fascinates you the most about it?
Moritz: Moonshell technology is indeed a remarkable development. As a former entrepreneur, what intrigues me the most are the automated workers it has brought to the forefront. These include bots, drones, cargo robots, and construction robots. They have the potential to revolutionize the way we operate on the Moon.



Interviewer: That's quite interesting. Let's delve into drones a bit further. Can you tell us about their role and capabilities in the lunar environment?
Moritz: Drones play a crucial role on the Moon. They're flying units used for various purposes, such as resource scanning and terrain analysis. The technology behind these lunar drones is fascinating. They utilize advanced propulsion systems for flight and cutting-edge scanning and imaging technology to assess the lunar surface.

Interviewer: Could you shed some light on the technology behind their flight and the scanning processes?
Moritz: Certainly. Lunar drones use innovative propulsion systems for mobility in the Moon's low-gravity environment. They often employ energy-efficient engines that provide exceptional thrust and maneuverability. This technology is essential for their smooth operations in lunar missions. In terms of scanning, these drones are equipped with advanced scanners and imaging devices that allow them to analyze resources and thoroughly survey the lunar landscape. They use technology like laser scanning, imaging spectrometry, and X-ray fluorescence to gather essential data for our lunar endeavors. It's a fascinating blend of engineering and science, all contributing to the progress of lunar exploration.



Interviewer: Moritz, I'm curious, are all drones on the Moon the same?
Moritz: Not at all. There are various types of drones, each designed for specific purposes. We can either use units specially created for space missions or modify units that previously operated on Earth, perhaps for border surveillance, mining, or even for more nefarious activities like state surveillance by certain governments. Of course, adapting these drones for lunar missions requires advanced technology and the right production facilities.

Interviewer: That's intriguing. The versatility of these drones is remarkable. What else can you tell us about them?
Moritz: Well, what's even more fascinating is that the drone models themselves are just a framework. We can further customize them by adding various modules like Hull, Shield, Engine, Scanners, CPU, Batteries, and AI. These modules can change the drone's parameters, enabling it to perform more complex tasks based on the needs of Moonshell Corporation and lunar colonies. Of course, the more intricate the model and the more modules you add, the longer it takes to manufacture the drone and, consequently, the more expensive it becomes. So, balancing your drone's configuration is crucial because every decision can determine survival or failure on the Moon.

Interviewer: That's a valuable insight, Moritz. So, it's all about optimizing the drone models and their modules to match the demands while considering cost and production time.
Moritz: Exactly. It's a delicate balance, and the right configuration can mean the difference between success and failure on the lunar frontier.

Interviewer: You said there are also bots, cargo drones, and construction bots. Could you tell us more about them?
Moritz: Certainly, these automated units, bots, cargo drones, and construction bots, function in a similar way. We can create them based on different models and configure their modules to suit specific needs. Of course, it all depends on the available budget, production capacity, and the technology being used. For example, take the Grabrobotter CZ2, a geodetic probe-collecting bot developed in my home country. It allows you to attach two Hull modules, whereas the more technologically advanced Turkish auto-miner, the Kazma XX3, can only accommodate one.



Interviewer: I see, but I'd rather not delve too deeply into these technical details. How about we change the topic and talk about the sense of longing for family and loved ones?
Moritz: Let me end - another thing I love in units it’s that the choice of names can provide us with a glimpse into the history, culture, and technological inspirations behind these units and modules. It's a testament to how intertwined our past is with the present and the future of lunar colonization. For instance, the Filipino construction bot, the Tagabuo ME2, played a significant role in their economic boom, while its Greek counterpart caused a labor market crisis. It's also fascinating how companies name their products. Scanning modules for drones bear the names of renowned optical scientists, Hull modules are named after ancient tanks from World War II, and CPU modules are dedicated to brilliant mathematicians from around the world. Now we can change the topic.

Interviewer: It's no secret that you're a father. What can you tell us about your relationship with your daughter?
Moritz: (Smiles) My daughter means the world to me. She's been prepared to inherit my empire since birth, and I have every confidence in her abilities. She's on the Moon, contributing to our goals. Any suspicions of nepotism are unfounded. She earned her place through hard work and determination.

Interviewer: Thank you for your time, Moritz. We appreciate you sharing your thoughts and experiences with us.
Moritz: You're welcome. It's been a pleasure to speak with you. Let's keep our focus on the future and our endeavors in space exploration.








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