The Space Watch

This flow follows orbital observers who preserve satellites while witnessing Earth’s destruction from above.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Orbital Choice

Orbital Choice Decision Terry Knox sends nonessential personnel back to Earth and keeps a small crew aboard the station. Purpose Their mission is to preserve the satellite network vital to communication and navigation. Sacrifice The crew chooses usefulness over personal rescue.

Orbital Maintenance

Orbital Maintenance Adaptation The crew modifies Jules Verne Three and ASTRO to refuel satellites. Labor Space walks become routine maintenance under conditions of hunger and isolation. Necessity Human civilization survives partly because a few people keep invisible infrastructure alive.

Earth As Evidence

Earth As Evidence Surveillance The crew watches battles, evacuations, fires, and refugee columns from orbit. Helplessness Their cameras reveal details that they cannot alter. Trauma Distance provides safety but not emotional immunity.

Three Gorges Collapse

Three Gorges Collapse Observation Orbital sensors capture the Three Gorges Dam Collapse. Flood A massive wave carries cities, debris, and trapped people toward the sea. Political Lie The leadership calls the disaster unforeseen, deepening the rebellion.

Last Supplies

Last Supplies Discovery Terry Knox finds the Yang Liwei Space Station abandoned with supplies and scuttling charges. Rescue The crew cannibalizes it to extend the International Space Station’s endurance. Legacy Even a failed station contributes to humanity’s continued survival.

at the beginning of the Great Panic

during the first months in orbit

during the Great Panic

during China’s civil war

after the Yang Liwei station is found