Fractalmonas thalassia (“Fracs”)
A newly discovered symbiotic microbe that uses TNA (threose nucleic acid) instead of DNA, making it a unique life form alien to Earth’s biology. Fracs create luminous, fractal-like structures that sequester carbon dioxide at rates twice as high as Earth’s kelp forests, producing oxygen-rich habitats. Their carbon storage process involves forming hard, honey-like matrices that could help combat climate change on Earth.
Thruster Fins
Equipped with high-powered propulsion systems, thruster fins are crucial for underwater combat and exploration, allowing rapid maneuvering and evasion. They have built-in pulse motors, enabling speeds of up to 40 mph underwater, making them versatile for both quick pursuits and tactical maneuvers.
Jet Skis
These specialized watercraft are adapted for high-speed chases and underwater operations on Thalassa. Some models can reach speeds of 80 mph on the surface and dive underwater using retractable hydrofoils and bow planes, making them lethal in both combat and Nesoi-hunting scenarios.
Breathers
Compact, silver backpack breathers provide oxygen to divers, integrated into full-face masks. These are solar-powered and include carbon-nanotube-reinforced Lycra skins to protect against UV radiation and extreme underwater conditions. These breathers enable prolonged underwater exploration and combat operations.
Pilbara
The Pilbara is a tri-hulled exploration ship, designed for bioprospecting and equipped with advanced biotech laboratories and habitats for research on alien worlds. Outfitted with the Mozzie (a fast shuttle) and the Volans (a deep-diving spaceship-submersible), it represents the cutting edge of off-world exploration technology.
Volans
The Volans is a hybrid spaceship-submersible that can descend to depths of 15,000 feet, designed specifically for the extreme environments of Thalassa’s oceans. It is integral to missions exploring the abyssal plains and hydrothermal vents, embodying the fusion of spacefaring and deep-sea technology.
Mozzie
The Mozzie is a fast, maneuverable shuttle used by Orion and his team for both atmospheric and underwater operations. While capable of diving up to 1,000 feet, it’s not as powerful or deep-diving as the Volans. It plays a vital role in various exploration and covert missions, acting as a diversionary craft during complex maneuvers and a reliable means of transport through Thalassa’s dangerous environments.
Youxsia
A highly maneuverable shuttle that serves as an operations base and command center for missions on Thalassa. It is armed with sophisticated sensors and drones, playing a critical role in the battle and chase scenes involving Lani and Myah.
Ewok
The Ewok is a compact shuttle used for planetary missions, piloted by Myah and occasionally Keeley. Named as a tongue-in-cheek homage to an “80s space movie,” it is small but well-armed and durable enough to slip through dangerous airspace and make tight escapes during firefights. The Ewok plays a crucial role in rescue and covert extraction missions, maneuvering nimbly through Thalassa’s hostile environments.
Manta Ray Drones
Sleek, yellow “manta” drones used by Cutten’s mercenaries, these small underwater drones are designed for pursuit, surveillance, and combat. Equipped with sensors and the ability to navigate reef and cave structures, they hunt down Nesoi and support jet ski raiding parties. Despite their agility, their vulnerability to natural defenses—like sediment clouds and sudden attacks by marine life—can neutralize their threat.
Two-Sub
A nimble two-person submersible, the Two-Sub is essential for navigating Thalassa’s oceanic depths. Outfitted with mechanical arms and advanced sensors, it can sample microbial mats and map out underwater environments like methane seeps and blue holes. However, its limitations in power and battery life mean missions must be carefully planned to avoid being stranded in hazardous conditions.
Fires of Hina 