Chapter 7

Summary

• Protagonist is struck by a flood of thoughts on seeing an alien ship, pondering whether they are alone or if it might be another ship from Earth.
• The character searches the control room for communications equipment but finds none that would allow contact with other ships.
• After activating the radar, the character discovers an alien ship in close proximity with a matching velocity, hinting at intentional positioning.
• Using basic calculations and the ship's own dimensions as a reference, the protagonist determines the alien ship to be approximately three times the length of their own, confirming that it isn’t from Earth.
• The character describes the alien ship’s distinctive geometry, including a central diamond (octahedron) shape, thick rods, and what appear to be solar panels, pondering the purpose behind the flat surfaces.
• The protagonist considers that the alien technology might also be powered by Astrophage, akin to their own ship, and wonders about the intentions behind the alien craft’s maneuvers.
• The other ship's prompt response to signals implies an intelligent presence, leading the protagonist to dismiss the likelihood of it being an unmanned probe.
• The alien ship sends over a cylindrical object at a carefully controlled velocity, suggesting a peaceful exchange.
• Expecting friendly intentions, the protagonist prepares to capture the cylinder.
• The protagonist struggles with strong emotions, fondly recalling deceased crewmates who would have reacted differently to the event.
• The ease of handling the Russian Orlan-MKS2 EVA suit is noted, despite earlier hints of possible brain damage from a coma.
• Speculation about the alien's motives gives way to action as the character collects the cylinder during a spacewalk.
• The discovery that the cylinder smells strongly of ammonia and is hot to the touch raises new concerns.
• After cooling the cylinder in the airlock and surmounting the initial shock of the odor and heat, the character plans to investigate its contents in the lab.
• Confusion sets in as the character observes the seemingly gravity-oriented design of the lab and tries to recall why it's organized that way given the weightlessness onboard the ship.