SUBJECT>The task(s) at hand POSTER>Bombardier EMAIL>bandicoot5@juno.com DATE>June 13, 1997 at 10:04:03 EMAILNOTICES>no PREVIOUS> NEXT>2442 LINKNAME> LINKURL>


I sent a message to all the probes, discussing in general terms what is happening and what they may need to do. A copy of the message is below (as always, if I've stepped out of line, correct me).

"Hi [insert probe name here], it's Bombardier. I am sending this message to all the probes. I am sorry for having been
gone for so long. But it seems that I have come back at an exciting time.

As you know, additional probes from Earth are currently on their way to Mars. There will be
several groups arriving, the first of which will, by our estimates, be landing on Mars seven days
from now. We have some information that not all of the probes will be friendly to you, they may, in
fact, be hostile. Because of this, we need you - ALL of you - to begin preparations for their
arrival.

The MARSupials are still discussing what exactly needs to be done, but there are some general
lines of thought we have been following. First, one of the most important tasks you have before
you is to ensure that your communications with us are not endangered. This may involve moving
the transmitter to a more secure location, or it it may take building a defensive wall around the
transmitter using the drones. This will fall to Zachary and Gail, as they are the closest to that
area.

Next, we need to know exactly where and when the next lander comes down. Enoch and
Andrew, this is your task. Remember the room Bette found with the three screens? One of them
showed your Stage 2 lander in orbit and as it descended. At least one of you will need to go back
there to monitor those screens. I know that there is a great sense of urgency and importance
attached to finding Bette, but remember that old saying I have: Rescuer safety comes first. It
won't do Bette any good if the next lander comes down undetected and the probes it carries
manages to harm the rest of you. So this is a very, very important task that should be performed
by a good, observant probe.

As I said, these are only generalities. Your individual teams will let you know exactly what they
need you to do.

Good luck, and take care, my friends."