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GENESIS DEVICE (Molecular transmogrification)

The Genesis Device is the code name assigned to the first practical molecular transmogrification engine, built circa 2280-2285.

AIMS

The Genesis Device was conceived primarily as a terraforming engine capable of spontaneously creating organic molecules from inorganic sources. Designed in the form of an explosive ordnance charge, it would be detonated on a carefully chosen celestial body, where a chain reaction would reconfigure all existing local matter at a sub-atomic level. The first tests, completed on remotely located inert planetoids, succeeded in creating a human-sustaining atmosphere and an ecosystem replete with plant and animal life.

DEPLOYMENT

In 2285 the Genesis torpedo was introduced into a barren planet in the Mutare sector, reforming it into a New World a matter of hours. Although the next phase of the experiment is still classified Top Secret by Star Fleet, it is known that the newly created Genesis Planet was subsequently destroyed by the unexpected tectonic and gravitational forces unleashed by the device.

MODERN APPLICATION

The safe application of the so-called Genesis science did not come until 2305, when a matrix was designed to describe the size and borders of the area to be reformed. With this final hurdle vaulted, the technology became an incredible tool for prosperity throughout the Federation Belt, and was also shared with many species beyond the UFP.

CONTROVERSY

Within the scientific community there has been long debate about the dangers and moral ramifications of the use of the Genesis technology. In a practical sense, many have argued that there is an infinitesimal chance that the sub-atomic chain reaction begun when it is introduced into any body could leap to disconnected atoms and spread across the universe, wiping out everything in its path. On a moral front, theologians and philosophers question the idea of men usurping a function that has always been considered the domain of God.

HISTORY

The primary impetus for the Genesis device began in the 2270's, with the work of three research scientists working for the Yoular Consortium: Dr. Carol Marcus , Dr. Alvin Hartley and Dr. Katherine Keene. In 2280, Marcus discovered the Molecular Conversion Constant , a process whereby the function of organic molecules can be spontaneously changed. By 2282 the team was converting inorganic compounds to living cells, eventually selecting inert celestial bodies for experimentation. The program has remained Top Secret since its inception, thus little is known beyond these initial facts.

SEE REFERENCES:

Change For a Dollar: Terra Forming in Deep Space
(Jack Cole, 2267)

Sebastian Yoular and His Era
(Gerrold David, 2290)