
-------- TML Message #882 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 882
Subject: Re: Fusion drives, fuel consumption, etc. 
Date: Mon, 29 Jan 90 23:20:25 PST
From: (Leonard Erickson) leonard@tessi.UUCP


Slight problem. To a first approximation, Isp=Ve/g
(that is, the specific impulse equals the exhuast velocity divided by
the acceleration due to gravity at the Earth's surface)

This means that the *maximum* Isp is a bit over 3e7 seconds. And it
would be achieved by having an exhaust velocity of C!

Also your final velocity is determined by your exhaust velocity and
mass-ratio. I think it is Vf= ln(Mr)*Ve.

Ok, with an Isp of 1e6, Ve = 1e7. so for 2% of c as a final velocity
you need a mass-ratio of 1.8....

With Isp=6e5, you need Mr=2.7. not too shabby...

All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #883 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 883
Subject: Fusion rockets (Re: Starship design revamping)
Date: Mon, 29 Jan 90 23:31:08 PST
From: (Leonard Erickson) leonard@tessi.UUCP


Metlay isn't kidding when he says that a reaction type fusion drive
will make things "interesting".

A nice way to remove small annoyance is to do a "burn-off". Just come
in for a "touch and go *powered* landing. Tail first.

A classic example of doing this with a scout is given in Andre
Norton's "Soiux Spaceman".

BTW, anybody ever tried mixing Norton's stories with Traveller?
I suspect they'd fit rather well. And they'd be a great source of
plots for lazy refs. (especially since so many of them have the same
*starting* plot elements. Makes it hard for a player to figure out
which book you stole it from... :-)

All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #884 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 884
From: (Bertil Jonell) d9bertil@dtek.chalmers.se
Subject: Re: Xboats
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 90 8:32:19 MET DST


woodsb@gn.ecn.purdue.edu writes:
>      I just took a look at Supplement 9, Fighting Ships, and the Xboat was
> listed as a *TL10* design.  I haven't had any time to check this out with the
> design rules (and won't, for that matter, for several days), but would this
> make a difference?

The major difference would be that it couldn't be jump4! The TL-Jump progression
is something like this (typing from memory, but 90% certain :-):
 
 Jump1  Jump2  Jump3  Jump4  Jump5  Jump6
  TL9    TL11   TL12   Tl13   Tl14   TL15

So the Xboats would have to be TL13 in order to have Jump4. But I don't think
that would make them significantly "larger" internally than a TL15 xboat.
The Jumpdrive is not TL dependent.
The Powerplant is heavily dependent by TL.. but it will be very small on an
Xboat.
A quick estimate gives that a Jump4, 1Gee Xboat would have to spend around
45 percent of its tonnage to Drives, and enviro and fuel and stuff.
That would leave 740 kl. Minus 2 staterooms and a 20 ton (big as a launch)
databank and some controls, this would leave about 350 kl as excess space.
This is just enough space for fuel to fuel an additional Jump-4!
So even a TL13 Xboat should be able to make 2 Jump-4...
(Hmm, Jump4+4, is that Rift capability?)

- -bertil-
- -- 
Bertil K K Jonell @ Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg
NET: d9bertil@dtek.chalmers.se 
VOICE: +46 31 723971 / +46 300 61004     "Don't worry,I've got Pilot-7"
SNAILMAIL: Box 154,S-43900 Onsala,SWEDEN      (Famous last words)      
"During the high point of the Downes Age, they put Ming the Merciless in charge
of designing California gas stations" W.Gibson "The Gernsback Continuum"

All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #885 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 885
From: (Bertil Jonell) d9bertil@dtek.chalmers.se
Subject: Re: Fixed mounts (Was: Agility and other $%&#! :-)
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 90 9:00:59 MET DST


Adrian Hurt writes:
> This is something I never liked.  All weapons are in turrets.  A ship ought
> to be able to have fixed weapons.  Either the same weapons, but taking much
> less space; or bigger weapons in the same space.  In particular, a fighter
> ought to be able to take a big missile on a fixed mount, instead of those
> small 50kg things in its turret.  That way, it might be able to do some harm
> to a decent sized ship.

Sure you can, It is mentioned in the Solomani Alien Module that they often
use fixed mounts. I would think that a fixed mount would take the same 
power, but require less room (maybe as low as 1/3), meigh appropriately less
and perhaps be 25% cheaper.
The limits as detailed in the module was that any craft may only have as many
hardpoints occupied by fixed mounts as it has computernumber.
They also gave each weapon a -2 to hit. (Mayday system)
Looking at the way spinal mounts is treated in MegaT a fixed mount would
have to be pointed at the target in order to be fired. 
(And they would be practically useless for defensive fire)

An other method is to intstall a big bomb-bay (just cargo with a hatch in the 
floor). This would have room for about one 1000kg bomb per 0.75 kl or something.
Just fly over the target and open the hatch...
Even a little ship could take a B52 sized cargo.
For really effective ground-attack, put laserguidance kits on the bombs...

- -bertil-
- -- 
Bertil K K Jonell @ Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg
NET: d9bertil@dtek.chalmers.se 
VOICE: +46 31 723971 / +46 300 61004     "Don't worry,I've got Pilot-7"
SNAILMAIL: Box 154,S-43900 Onsala,SWEDEN      (Famous last words)      
"During the high point of the Downes Age, they put Ming the Merciless in charge
of designing California gas stations" W.Gibson "The Gernsback Continuum"

All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #886 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 886
From: wrgate.wr.tek.com!reed.UUCP!oresoft.uu.net!richard@tektronix.TEK.COM (Richard Johnson)
Subject: E-PBM Turn 0.0
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 90 11:17:15 PDT



                      Turn 0
                   Jan. 30 1990 (old earth)


(I'm going to try to always post on Tuesdays so we all have at least
a little time to do the `right thing' before the next turn.)

- -------------------------------------------------------------------
After the usual hassles just arriving at a new place of work, you
are given the customary mild stimulant of choice.  Since almost all
of you are humanoid (at least so far), this will probably be some
disguised form of caffiene.

You have not reported to Turnskaad Enterprises, or any building
belonging to them.  Instead you are assembled in a conference room
at the Inn of the TAS.  You are never without escort, but are
generally free to wander around.  (Kind of like a convention :)

You are on yet another typical rock in space type world (the 
actual location is kind of immaterial to the game).
TL here is 13.  You are near, but not in, a city of about 600,000
humanoids.  The city is by a small bay formed by mountains and the
delta of a fair-sized river.

As you assemble, you notice around you little of the typical
conference-room paraphenalia.  Instead, only the omnipresent
security teams, and two small groups (1 robot, 2 beings) constantly
sweeping for information-intrusive devices.

A small, stocky, white-haired gentleman steps on the podium and
tests the acoustics.  Moving behind the lectern (c'mon there's gotta
be a lectern) he begins.

	Greetings travellers!  Thank you for volunteering for what will
	perhaps the most exciting exploratory mission of our lifetimes.
	The numbers and quality of applications we have received
	indicate the importance of our undertaking.

	Today, the first of you begin your training.  I'd also like to
	briefly introduce those who have been accepted and indicate
	their team assignments.

	Let me begin with your mission commander: Admiral Nanadl Nggemen
	Gr.  Count Gr has recently retired from a distinguished carreer
	in the Darrian Navy.  You can see from his uniform that his
	experience has been, well, .. practical.  I believe there is no
	finer individual than Count Gr to lead this mission.  Count, you
	will be briefed in detail on the mission and its objectives.

The Count is a slim, rugged, Navy man.  He appears to about 40
standard years old.  He wears a chest full of medals and ribbons.
Anyone with experience notices right away that he only keeps *really*
good ribbons on his uniform - the rest are probably buried
somewhere.  Even the novices will notice the SEH ribbon.
He definitely has more an air of confidence and competence than of
bravado or impressiveness.  Vets might recognize the partly-empty
eyes that have seen too much violence, too many young people killed.

	Next we have the current members of the transport team:  Etienne
	De Mer, Morgan Gray, Jaron Voga, and Eneri De Aith.  We have not
	yet determined the command representative from this team, nor
	the team leader.  You gentlebeings will be briefed on your
	expected duties, and will be trained accordingly.

These four have the look of a shared religion.  That religion being
flight.  It's obvious in their demeanor that they see things at the
controls of a ship that other creatures can't, or don't conceive
of.  Etienne wears a space-navy uniform.  Not nearly the ribbons nor
the distinguished air of the Count, but still quite confident and
capable.  The other three have the `look and feel' of Scouts.  There
is no doubt from their comraderie, they're a club.

	In engineering, we currently have only one team member: Ralf.
	Although scout trained, Ralf has demonstrated technical and
	repair abilities that more than qualify him for this mission.
	Ralf will be briefed on his duties (if the ref can ever
	successfully send mail to his player...).

Ralf seems in his 30's.  He is not in uniform.  He seems quiet, and
perhaps a little nervous to be the center-of-attention, if for only
a little while.

	In security we currenly have three top-notch crew mwmbers, and
	two outstanding applicants.  The three who are here are: Andon
	Shrike, Anton Devious, and Sergeant-Major Hammer.  We have an
	offer out to a Marine major and a detective. (so their player's
	will know in case the mail fails again.)

These three look like they'll never get along.  One is a Marine
officer, one a COAC pilot, and one regular army.  Andon Shrike, the
pilot, mid 30's, seems distant and quiet.  Anton Devious, the
Marine, would remind many of the legendary Oliver North.  He is
friendly and outgoing.  Hammer, the merc, seems like a jaguar
patiently waiting for prey.  

	In medical and bioscience we have only one crewmember so far:
	Dr. Christian Van Der Merwe.  The good doctor is quite capable
	of providing insight into any new biotypes we might encounter,
	as well as seeing to our own medical needs.  I only hope we
	don't burn him out.

There is really nothing that distinguishes this doctor from
thousands of others you've seen.  Just console yourselves knowing
that there's something inside that makes him special.  (NO I'm *NOT*
saying he's psi!  Only that he might take a little while to get to
know.)

	In physical science we have Karl Morser and Johann Abuko.
	Doctor Morser is well-versed in many sciences.  We have also
	assigned him to the generalism team.  Mr. Abuko has great
	experience in physical systems and computer modelling.

Dr. Morser is kind of small.  He smiles and jokes, and you're left
kind of wondering what he found funny.  Johan Abuko is missing an
eye.  He's kind of stocky and very quiet.

	In social sciences we have only one team member so far: Dr
	Werner.  Dr. Werner has contact experience and years of field
	research.

Dr. Werner is a complete opposite to Abuko.  He obvioulsy likes
where he is, and is mildly enjoying not only the newness here but
just having people around.  He is tall and slender, late 30-ish.

	Finally, on our generalist team we have three so far.  Doctor
	Morser you've met.  Say hello to Rigo Edmonsen and Andreas
	Spear.  Captain Edmonsen has worked in urban environments the
	last few years and can help out in engineering from
	time-to-time.  Mr Spear has a broad general background and a
	variety of experience from around the galaxy.

Spear is young, muscular, and mildly flashy.  Edmonsen is mature,
conservative, and sober.

	Now please take a few minutes to get acquainted.  If you'd like
	to request a different assignment and/or a second assignment, do
	so now.  Next week we wil introduce new members, assignment
	changes, and make necessary equipment purchases.

	The general preliminary mission briefing will be after lunch.
	Re-assemble here are 13:30 local time.

And then he turns you lose.
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
{Referee shell `on'}
Use this week to get to know each other as best you can.  If you
choose to talk openly, just use the list.  If you want to talk
privately to someone, mail to me and I'll forward it.  This might
take a little longer, but should add spice to the game.

General Mission Briefing is in turn 0.1

This mail thing is driving me nuts, but I think we can work around
it.  If you want to play (and aren't already) get your character to
me this week if possible, next at lastest (unless it's unavoidable -
if I have to I can work you in later as a bad guy or soemthing).  If
you need me to gen a character for you, let me know *immediately*.

	Richard
	richard@agora.hf.intel.com
	richard@oresoft.uu.net


All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #887 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 887
From: wrgate.wr.tek.com!reed.UUCP!oresoft.uu.net!richard@tektronix.TEK.COM (Richard Johnson)
Subject: E-PBM Turn 0.1:  Prelim. Briefing
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 90 13:27:19 PDT



Turn 0.1:  Preliminary Mission Briefing

After lunch, the white-haired gentleman again mounts the platfom,
but eschews the lectern.  The lights dim and he speaks.


We have recently received information from one of our private scouts
that a ringworld exists in a nebula not far from here.  Our scout
was able to make only one pass, and that off the ecliptic, so we
don't know much about the overall picture. We have named this find
`R-alpha', after the code sequence used ot designate the find.

(A holo of a slim, shiny band reflecting the light of a yellow-green
star forms near the speaker.  This is a moving holo, obviously from
the cameras of a passing ship, and time compressed.  The band slowly
resolves into what must be a ring, although the nearer side is
washed out by the light of the star.  The ring is almost vertical in
the holo.)

The one pass indicated excess energy generation at several
locations, habitable oxygen-nitrogen atmosphere, and methane.
Methane does not occur except as a by-product of animal life, or
geological metamorphasis, so we strongly suspect widespread life.

(The holo shows 8 or 9 distinct "warm spots" on the ring as the star
characteristically dims through an IR-viewing filter.  The ring
rapidly expands, and then the time-compression slows as the camera
pans to follow the inner surface of the ring.  Geographic features
such as low hills and small seas are visible.  So are clouds.)

Whoever built this didn't create it for just a game preserve.  We need
to explore it as much as possible in the next few months.  Naturally
there is potential for huge economic and miltary benefit if you can
uncover information, artifacts, and so forth.  We have posted a bond
of 10,000 ICr for the first working artifact found.

(The holo fades out. The lights come back up.)

Also, discoveries like this are hard to keep secret.  Time is
critical.  We estimate you have at most six months to do all your
investigative work before competitors force you off the world.  If
you can get back in time, we can make at least a salvage or
colonization claim on R-alpha before someone else can move in.

Because of the nature of your teams, and of this world, you will be
spending extended periods well away from other teams and from your
ship.  You need to be prepared.  We are providing inital training,
and making certain equipment available to you at a reduced cost.
Your checks will be held here until your return.  (Isn't that just
like a big outfit, to collect the interest on your labor...)

The command team will assign specific missions, deadlines, and
goals for each of the other teams.  Generally, the command team's
assignments are orders to be followed, but specific implementation
details will be the responsibility of each team.

The transport team's job is to get you there, back, and where you
have to go while you are there.  Submersibles, air rafts, and ATVs
will be available once you're there.  Try to choose equipment and
tools that are transportable, so these guys can do their job.

The engineering team is along to keep things working, and to 
manufacture what you will need as the need arises.  If you know any
good drive specialists and/or ships' engineers, steer 'em our way.

We can all see the need for a security team.  (actually that' up to
your individual characters whether they can...)  We don't exactly
know what we're getting into down there.  Whoever build R-alpha
might have defensive surprises lined up and waiting for us.  On the
other hand, security might just be moving crates for a fully
cooperative crew, or it might mean repelling alien boarders.  Stay
frosty!  Additionally, we want security to have a look at anything
that might be a native weapon.  Could be some interesting stuff to
learn there.

The medical/bioscience team's job is manifold.  They need to keep
everyone healthy.  They need to investigate what, if any, medical
disciplines were used by the creators of R-alpha and to make use of
them if necessary to combat alien infection.  Additionally, they
need to classify and catalog as many indigenous life forms as
possible, and together with the social science team, determine if
contact is appropriate.

Physical science's job is to make a stab at the technology of the
builders of R-alpha, if you can find enough remains to make it worth
their while.  We especially want to know the obvious things, like
did they know something about drives we can learn?  What kinds of
materials did they use to build this world?  What kinds of machines
did they use to build it?  etc.  There's bound to be some strange
stuff on our new world, look to these guys for the answers.

The social science team is there to find out about how the creators
lived, how whoever is there now is living, and make contact if that
seems appropriate.  If we can remain on peaceful terms with the
natives, we'd certainly prefer it.

Finally, we have generalists on the crew to help out where needed
and to, more importantly, try to provide a `gestalt' of R-alpha as
it is and as it was; to provide some meaningful framework for what
was, what is, and why.  

Again folks, think on what you will need to perform your mission.
You might have to live off the land, you might need to move quickly,
and you might need to fight hard just to survive.  Next week we will
move out to the asteroids, where the Alcyon is parked, and where we
have a supply depot to help you make final personal and mission
purchases.

As a parting word, we still need scientists and engineers
desparately.  Of course we still examine resumes for all positions,
but do recommend us to your friends, so you won't be shorthanded
when it's time to do the work.

Are there any questions?

(Ref shell `on')
Go ahead and ask public questions publicly.


Richard
	richard@agoara.hf.intel.com
	richard@oresoft.uu.net


All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #888 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 888
From: (Bertil Jonell) d9bertil@dtek.chalmers.se
Subject: Fastest ship behind the Claw! (Silly design)
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 90 10:56:55 MET DST


As promised: here is the frightfullt expensive and totally useless 
100t Jump6 Manuever6 agility6 ship:

This ship requires that you use the "no fuel used by the manueverdrive
during jump" model. It's only purpose might be to let bored nobles make
races to see who can get from Kashuggus to Capitol fastest :-)

The EMMasking is intended to make it usable (awmigod, it *is* usable!:-) for
clandestine operations, like if the IISS want to take sensorreadings on the
latest additions to Chronors planetary defence installations etc.

FAST INTRUDER
	CraftID:Fast Intruder, Type JF, TL15, MCr 117.857
	Hull:	90/225, Disp=1,000, Config=6AF, Armor=40G, Unloaded=1,298tons,
		Loaded=1,318tons
	Power:	10/15, Fusion=2,657MW, Duration=9/27
	Loco:	15/23, Manuever=6, 6/9, Jump=6, Cruise=2830, Top=3780, 
		Agility=6, NOE=190
	Commo:	Radio=System
	Sensors:EMMask, PassiveEMS=Interstellar, ActiveEMS=FarOrbit, 
		Neutrino=10kW, Densitometer=HiPen/1km, ActObjScan=Routine, 
		ActObjPin=Routine, PasObjScan=Routine, PasObjPin=Routine, 
		PasEngScan=Simple, PasEngPin=Routine
	Off/Def:DefDM=+14
	Control:Computer=6x3, Panel=Holodynamic link x 74, Special=HoloHUD x 1,
		Environ= basic env, basic ls, extended ls, inertial comp for 
		hull minus fuel tankage. grav plates only for crew area, 
		AirLocks=1
	Accomm:	Crew=1 x 1, SmallStateroom=1
	Other:	Fuel=766kl, ObjSize=Average, EMLevel=Faint

Disclaimer: The ship above was designed just to prove that it could be done
- -- 
Bertil K K Jonell @ Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg
NET: d9bertil@dtek.chalmers.se 
VOICE: +46 31 723971 / +46 300 61004     "Don't worry,I've got Pilot-7"
SNAILMAIL: Box 154,S-43900 Onsala,SWEDEN      (Famous last words)      
"During the high point of the Downes Age, they put Ming the Merciless in charge
of designing California gas stations" W.Gibson "The Gernsback Continuum"

All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #889 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 889
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 90 09:55:58 EST
From: (Greg Givler - PA) givler@cbmvax.commodore.COM
Subject: Re:  Status of E-PBM (also those $%^# mailers)



>I think most of the mail is actually getting through now, except
>for (ironically) the first three people to respond.

I have sent you a character, did you get it? 

Also I have not gotten any mail from you at all except for stuff on the
mailing list.

Let me know via the list if you got my character.

Thanks,

Greg


- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greg Givler                        | Q-Link: GregGivler
Analyst - Systems Evaluation Group | CompuServe: Greg Givler 76702,647
Commodore Product Assurance        | GEnie: G.Givler
215-431-9100                       | The NET: givler@cbmvax.commodore.com
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Wild Whores couldn't keep me away!" -- George Francisco
"That's Horses, George" -- Matt Sikes -- Alien Nation --  Fox Broadcasting --
===============================================================================

All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #890 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 890
From: ("Brent L. Woods") woodsb@gn.ecn.purdue.edu
Subject: Re: Xboats
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 90 14:11:37 EST



 In message: <9001310732.AA15570@hacke1.dtek.chalmers.se> Bertil Jonell writes:
 >
 >woodsb@gn.ecn.purdue.edu writes:
 >>      I just took a look at Supplement 9, Fighting Ships, and the Xboat was
 >> listed as a *TL10* design.  I haven't had any time to check this out with
 >> the design rules (and won't, for that matter, for several days), but would
 >> this make a difference?
 >
 >The major difference would be that it couldn't be jump4! The TL-Jump
 >progression is something like this (typing from memory, but 90% certain :-):
 >
 > Jump1  Jump2  Jump3  Jump4  Jump5  Jump6
 >  TL9    TL11   TL12   Tl13   Tl14   TL15

     I just took at look at my original copy of Book 2 (eleventh printing)
and I noticed something...  Tech levels aren't mentioned at all in reference
to drives.  Not at all.  The only mention of tech level I saw in Book 2 was
for *drugs* (what *they're* doing in Book 2:  Starships, I don't know).

 >So the Xboats would have to be TL13 in order to have Jump4. But I don't think
 >that would make them significantly "larger" internally than a TL15 xboat.
 >The Jumpdrive is not TL dependent.

     I don't know about that...  How about the *size* of the drive?  The
higher the tech level, the smaller the individual components are, and the
more room you have for goodies.  At least, that's how it was in High
Guard.  I don't have that much experience with MegaTraveller's craft
design system (yet).  A Jump 1 drive took less of a percentage of the total
volume of the ship at TL15 than at TL9, as I recall.

 >The Powerplant is heavily dependent by TL.. but it will be very small on an
 >Xboat.

     Didn't the original Xboat design *not* have a power plant?

 >A quick estimate gives that a Jump4, 1Gee Xboat would have to spend around
 >45 percent of its tonnage to Drives, and enviro and fuel and stuff.
 >That would leave 740 kl. Minus 2 staterooms and a 20 ton (big as a launch)
 >databank and some controls, this would leave about 350 kl as excess space.
 >This is just enough space for fuel to fuel an additional Jump-4!
 >So even a TL13 Xboat should be able to make 2 Jump-4...
 >(Hmm, Jump4+4, is that Rift capability?)

     Yup.  At least one Rift-crossing route can be done by Jump 5 ships.  If
a ship can cross eight parsecs on one load of fuel (even if it takes two
weeks), then it should be able to cross the Rift without too much trouble.


- --
     Brent

INTERNET:  woodsb@gn.ecn.purdue.edu  /  woodsb@attctc.dallas.tx.us
USENET:  pur-ee!gn.ecn.purdue.edu!woodsb
FIDONET:  Brent.Woods@p303.f40.n201.z1.fidonet.org  (from Internet)  or
          Brent Woods@1:201/40.303  (from FidoNet)
USNAIL:  320 Brown St., #406  /  W. Laf., IN  47906
PHONE:  +1 (317) 743-8421 (voice)


All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #891 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 891
From: wrgate.wr.tek.com!reed.UUCP!oresoft.uu.net!richard@tektronix.TEK.COM (Richard Johnson)
Subject: Here's the problem with mail...
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 90 9:11:53 PDT


Why I can hear you, but you can't hear me...


Maybe you folks can help  (this is technical TL8 computer junk...)

At Oregon Software (aka `oresoft'), we are connected to uunet.
For some reason, our mailer routes TO uunet THROUGH:
	reed!ogccse!rutgers!uunet...

Aside from the inefficiency, this would not be a problem, except
that Oregon Graduate Center (OGC) changed their name to OGI, and
also the mailer to ogicse.  Consequently, almost everything out
of oresoft bounces - it doesn't know ogccse.

How do `we' (in a generic sense - we have no system manager)
fix this?  I suspect there is a file in /usr/spool/uucp/...
somehwere that'll do the trick, but I'm a writer not a software
type, so help is needed.  (also our software types are not unix
folks [yet], but VMS compiler folks for the most part [ugh].)
- ------------------  any help will be most beneficial to the E-pbm


About the other acoount: agora.  agora is a public-access xenix
system (286 xenix I think).  Intel has been kind enough to allow
mail hookups through there, but sometimes agora stuff gets dumped to
the ether because of high traffic loads from/through intel.

Consequently, I use agora for almost all my outgoing mail, but
sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.  It would sure be nice to
make oresoft behave.

So that's my plea for help.  Oh, I believe we're using smail if that
helps any.

Thanks
	Richard Johnson


(I know it doesn't really belong on this list, but you guys are the
ones putting up with the foolishness.)


All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #892 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 892
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 90 15:44:31 EST
From: (Dan Corrin) dan@engrg.uwo.ca
Subject: E-PBM, PBEM


***PBEM info only.***

Wow...what an intorduction, I am *really* impressed so far.

Richard mentioned that these "public" messages should be used to gather info
that everone would be interested in. However if I mention my character, then
the fact that richard doesn't want to give out the player's addresses becomes
irrelevant.

> A small, stocky, white-haired gentleman steps on the podium and
> tests the acoustics.  Moving behind the lectern (c'mon there's gotta
> be a lectern) he begins.

This gentleman introduced everone but himself. Who is he anyway?

> ... We have posted a bond
> of 10,000 ICr for the first working artifact found.

Define artifact. The standard definition is:
ar.ti.fact \'<a:>rt-i-,fakt\ n (1821)
...
    1a: a usu. hand-made object (as a tool or ornament) representing a 
    particular culture or stage of technological development
...
This means the first tool, hammer, sword, etc, is worth Cr10,000? or
do they mean the first TL 17+ thingy?

Some other general questions:

How big is the ship? What can we put inside? The intro mentioned subs.
I sure hope that there are some automated probes and robots for doing
some of the observations.
Was the system cleared for construction of the world, or are there other
planets or planetoids in the system. Specifically a gas giant for
refueling. However other planets could serve as an intial base.
How do we determine the command team representative from our group?
Do we just have an election, volunteers, or since it pays more, fight
it out?
"The TL here is 13", does this mean no TL 14+ equipment? Does equipment
purchased come out of our salaries, or is there a budget for the mission?
Are there any company represetatives coming? or are we on our own? Is there
a seperate crew for the mothership, or do some of us have to volunteer to 
stay behind with the ship?

	-A concerned expedition member.

Dan Corrin, System Manager, Mechanical Engineering, UWO, London, Ontario
TML FTP site coordinator:  dan@engrg.uwo.ca   ...!watmath!julian!engrg!dan







All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #893 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 893
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 90 00:03:09 EST
From: (Chris Bartlett) cdba_ltd@uhura.cc.rochester.edu
Subject: The ringworld




	"Umm, just how big is the ringworld?  And how long will we have to
explore it?  Also, if there is an undiscovered sapient race with some degree
of technological development, what will be mission policy regarding contact
and establishment of relations with the locals?"

	- Another concerned, but fascinated expedition member


BTW, let me add my enthusiasm too.  More, more!  I can't wait until the next
turn...  :-)


				Chris


All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #894 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 894
From: (Bertil Jonell) d9bertil@dtek.chalmers.se
Subject: E-PBM Questions
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 90 10:27:13 MET DST


Public Questions:

This one I won't ask loudly, I expect that everybody should know the answer
already: but since we players don't know: What date is is?

What is the estimated minimum technological level to build a ringworld?

How long could it last untended?

How large surface area does R-alpha have?

Do we get access to a full report from the scout who discovered it?

Was any kind of transmissions or signals from R-alpha detected?

Did it radiate neutrinos?

Any signs of large scale constructions (other than the ringworld, that is :-)
on its surface on the closeups?

What resolution does the closeups have?

How large is those "low hills and small seas" on the surface?

What are we waiting for?:-)

- -- 
Bertil K K Jonell @ Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg
NET: d9bertil@dtek.chalmers.se 
VOICE: +46 31 723971 / +46 300 61004     "Don't worry,I've got Pilot-7"
SNAILMAIL: Box 154,S-43900 Onsala,SWEDEN      (Famous last words)      
"There's a sucker born every month, except february, which have 28!" Alf Tanner

All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #895 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 895
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 90 08:48:43 MST
From: ("Jan L. Peterson") jlp@hamblin.byu.edu
Subject: E-PBM


People,
	Could everyone posting a message regarding the play by mail
game be sure to put E-PBM somewhere in the Subject: line?  It would
make it much easier for me to archive all pbm mail in a separate
folder.  I usually archive all trav-list mail that I find interesting
enough to keep in one folder, but want to maintain a separate folder
for the pbm stuff.  I use vm for a mail reader, and take advantage of
it's automatic archiving capability, but I need some special way to
flag pbm mail so I can archive it before it sees that it's from the
trav list and puts it in that folder.

	Richard, did you get my character?  Something you might try
for getting mail out is to specify the path to uunet, i.e. to mail to
me, try sending to reed!ogicse!rutgers!hamblin.byu.edu!jlp (note, I
skipped uunet -- rutgers should be able to reach me directly).

	-jan-
- --
        Jan L. Peterson
EMail:  jlp@hamblin.byu.edu  or  uunet!hamblin.byu.edu!jlp
Mail:   Math Dept. -- 292 TMCB; BYU; Provo, UT 84602 (USA)
Phone:  +1 801 378 2183



All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #896 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 896
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 90 11:00:26 -0500
From: (Mark Gellis) f3w@mentor.cc.purdue.edu
Subject: Spacecraft drives



Thanks for the replies, although I was left a little confused.  I'm
assuming that there are ways to improve the Isp (actually, the EJV,
but it works out to the same thing) by NOT simply smashing deuterium 
and He3 together like mini-H bombs, but using your fusion power plant
to power a containment field (magnetic?  I guess so) that will heat
reaction mass, like normal hydrogen, to such horrific temperatures
that it spews out at velocities that give you much better fuel consumption
than the Daedelus-type starships.  The convention Isps of 6E05 to 1E06,
I have been told, are based on our bomb-versions of fusion...if we had
really efficient fusion power, we could heat and direct the reaction
mass much more efficiently.

For those who have been discussing this issue, let's put it this way,
my fusion engines, unless I'm setting this up wrong, a 7:3 payload-fuel
ration (i.e., 30% of the ship is fuel) will let you reach about 2% c
and then decelerate down again, or let you reach 4% c and keep going
forever until you hit something.  What kind of Isp would be required
for this, and if we can use magnetic fields to contain plasma at
several hundred million degrees, it is unreasonable to assume that 
this kind of Isp could be achieved.  If it is, is it possible that
"fusion" engines actually sweeten the mix with a little (magnetically
stored) anti-hydrogen?  (Is this the galactic version of adding a 
nitrous tank to your car?)

Thanks in advance.  Take care all.

Mark


All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- TML Message #897 --------

Archive-Message-Number: 897
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 90 11:55:14 EST
From: (Frederic Joshua Krage) milamber@wpi.wpi.edu
Subject: E-PBM, ATTN: Richard,   and members



	First, a few things for the esteemed members of this mission.  In
answer to a previous post, a believe that a ringworld is at least tech 13,
possibly tech 25.  Going purely from science fiction, namely by Larry Niven,
a ringworld is huge, having an area of some millions or billions of Earths.
The ringworld featured by Niven lasted for several thousand years before
it was discovered.  Well, we shall see what we shall see, that is what
Richard will tell us we see...

   Now for Richard's part...
- --------------------------------------------------------

	Richard, my address is    milamber@wpi.wpi.edu      and I'm
located in Worcester, Massachussets.  I seem to be getting through to
you, but not vice versa.  Your new mail path seemed to work, i.e. I 
received a message from you through normal e-mail, and not through this
post.  Did you recieve my character?  Let's hope your new mail process
will work continuously.
					-Joshua-


All opinions and material above is the responsibility of the originator.
Submissions: traveller@dadla.wr.tek.com, or uunet!dadla.wr.tek.com!traveller
Administrator: traveller-request@dadla.wr.tek.com (James Perkins)
The TML is made possible by facilities provided by Tektronix, Inc.

-------- End of TML Messages --------

