Posted by rkrueg on
URL: https://www.shado-forum.com/Interceptors-tp1500519.html

Hello all,
I would think the "rescue" decal is for morale purposes, much as our pilots today carry a sidearm. The sidearm is fairly useless when confronted by an enemy platoon with automatic rifles, heavy caliber machine guns, etc. but having it is infinitely better then NOT having one. Perhaps the decal represents a radar reflector, IFF type system for the rescue craft. More likely, the rescue decal denotes the side of the interceptor that a rescue craft has to mate with the interceptor due to the docking mechanisms being on that side. Being in Space or on the lunar surface a proper docking would need to be made before a rescue could be attempted. Once the airtight seal/docking has been made then the pilot could be rescued, first aid rendered etc.

It has also been noted that the Interceptors are small so I would assume that they have limited fuel range. In addition, since they are kept on "alert" status, I assume they are kept ready to launch, i.e. engines warmed and/or running, missile loaded, systems up (like communications/ computer) and is therefore burning fuel. So a pilot sent out on an intercept mission may have to fly out, launch his missile, then fly an evasive return route and try to navigate back to base with less then a full tank of fuel, which is limited to start with. The rescue decal might mark where a fuel-tanker vehicle "tops off" the fuel load.

Has anyone (or maybe everyone?) noted that moonbase must have a great artificial gravity system to make a slide work on the moon? Just how far are the launch silo's from moonbase? I'm assuming, since moonbase has 0% capacity to support it's operation and must receive all their supplies from Earth, even oxygen, then the Interceptor silo's are de-pressurized before launch. I would guess the Pilot's slide must have several airtight doors, assuming they end in the silo, that open and close as the pilot slides through.
Lastly, does anyone else get a chill up & down their spine when Lt. Ellis say "Interceptors One, Two and Three. Immediate launch!