The Death of DuBois and Shapiro

The accidental explosion at Baikonur kills the two science specialists, creating a crisis.

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The Explosion

The Tragic Mistake The Milligram Error Martin DuBois and Annie Shapiro are killed in an explosion caused by a simple mistake: a milligram of Astrophage was given instead of a nanogram. The resulting energy release vaporizes the building. The Loss DuBois and Shapiro were brilliant scientists. Their deaths are a devastating blow to the project. They were the best hope for the mission's science. The Aftermath Stratt must find a replacement. The only viable candidate is Ryland Grace, who is a reluctant volunteer. The deaths set the stage for Grace's forced conscription.

The Investigation

The Cause Determined The Miscalculation An investigation reveals that the quartermaster mistakenly gave DuBois a milligram of Astrophage instead of a nanogram. The error was due to the small quantities and similar containers. The procedures for handling Astrophage are still immature. The Impact on the Mission Stratt uses the accident to justify her decision to force Grace onto the mission. The loss of the specialists is a tragedy, but the mission must continue. The Legacy DuBois and Shapiro are remembered as heroes. Their death is a reminder of the dangers of working with such powerful energy sources. The event changes the course of Grace's life.

Nine days before launch

Immediately after the explosion