; ; Sid Meier’s ALPHA CENTAURI ; ; Long Tech Descriptions ; ; Copyright © 1997, 1998 by Firaxis Games, Inc. ; ##Biogenetics #TECH0 The alien environment on Planet brought a host of unforeseen health problems for the colonists. Early inquiries into {Biogenetics} center on the prevention and treatment of these problems. Researchers in this discipline seek an understanding of the entire genetic code. ##Industrial Base #TECH1 The first colonies lack any kind of factories or heavy industry, so the creation of an {Industrial Base} becomes a high priority for economic growth. This Industrial Base emphasizes small-scale manufacturing with primitive assembly lines and simple currency instruments. ##Information Networks #TECH2 Survival equipment from the [Unity] contained a variety of computers purpose-built for the needs of a frontier society. However, they must first be connected into {Information Networks} before scientists can utilize their power. ##Applied Physics #TECH3 The colonists must create new tools from the wreckage of the [Unity] to survive and expand. Early inquiries into {Applied Physics} emphasize this adaptation of existing technology for the new environment. ##Social Psych #TECH4 The overcrowding aboard the [Unity] following the premature wakeup caused terrible conditions for the crew, but also generated valuable data concerning humans under extreme environmental stresses. Analysis of this data provides the first comprehensive, mathematical insight into the {Social Psychology} of humans. ##Doctrine: Mobility #TECH5 The early colonists quickly learned the importance of reconnaissance and self-defense in this most alien of environments. {Doctrine: Mobility} formalizes these cornerstones of military might, representing the first attempts at an organized defense policy on Planet. ##Centauri Ecology #TECH6 Finding adequate sources of nutrients, energy, and minerals is the most immediate problem facing the colonists after Planetfall. An understanding of the basics of {Centauri Ecology} provides the new arrivals with the tools they need to begin shaping the world around them-how plants grow, what geological structures exist, and how natural energy sources may be exploited on Planet. ##Superconductor #TECH7 The power requirements of [Optical Computers (D3)] and the nascent [Industrial Base (B1)] stimulate research into high-temperature {Superconductors}, an advance long considered a ‘holy Grail’ by physical chemists. A {Superconductor} is a material that does not resist a flow of electrons. Using a {Superconductor}, power can be transmitted at incredible speeds over vast distances with no degradation. Bulky and expensive cooling equipment for high-powered machinery or weaponry becomes unnecessary, because these materials remain cool and efficient as electricity passes through them. ##Nonlinear Mathematics #TECH8 By using the power of [Information Networks (D1)] to speed calculations and encourage collaborations, researchers make giant strides in the field of {Nonlinear Mathematics}, with significant military applications. ##Applied Relativity #TECH9 Albert Einstein developed his theories of relativity between 1905 and 1916; complete explanations of his work may be found in a number of sources. Later research into [Advanced Subatomic Theory (B3)] and [Superconductors (C4)] demonstrated that his postulates, though innovative for his time, were incomplete. {Applied Relativity} takes Einstein’s basic theories and updates them to encompass an understanding of newly-discovered phenomena. ##Fusion Power #TECH10 An extremely clean, powerful, and efficient source of energy, {Fusion Power} was known on Earth for decades as the reaction that powered the stars. However, scientists could not control the huge magnitude of released energy, so the only practical application for {Fusion Power} was in bombs of enormous destructive power. With the advent of [Superconductors (C4)], and by using [Pre-sentient Algorithms (D5)] to monitor and control the released energy, future scientists finally have access to cheap, abundant, and reusable power. ##Silksteel Alloys #TECH11 The growing field of [Industrial Automation (B3)] causes increased demand for new kinds of material that can withstand the incredible stresses of the robotic factories. Discoveries in [Advanced Subatomic Theory (B3)] provide engineers with these materials, dubbed {Silksteel Alloys} for their extraordinary tensile strength and flexibility. ##Advanced Subatomic Theory #TECH12 Discoveries in [High Energy Chemistry (C2)] point the way to a new {Advanced Subatomic Theory} that tries to detect and quantify the smallest possible underlying particles of matter. Using self-modifying [Polymorphic Software (D2)], the physicists developing this theory give mankind a window on the infinitesimal building blocks of the universe. ##High Energy Chemistry #TECH13 Breakthroughs in [Applied Physics (C1)] and [Industrial Base (B1)] lead to an understanding of {High Energy Chemistry}. This discipline seeks to understand the properties and behavior of matter at very high temperatures, and results in new types of materials that remain in a stable plasma state even when superheated by intense laser stimulation. #Frictionless Surfaces #TECH14 Discovery of the [Unified Field Theory (D10)] allowed scientists to alter the fundamental properties of matter itself. The discovery of {Frictionless Surfaces} proves the most useful application of these techniques. As the name implies, {Frictionless Surfaces} consist of materials that remain unaffected by friction, a force that slows down motion by changing kinetic energy into heat energy. Moving objects made of these materials do not slow down as they come into contact with other matter. ##Nanometallurgy #TECH15 Driven by the requirements of [Doctrine: Initiative (E5)] and the mathematical models behind [Probability Mechanics (B7)], {Nanometallurgy} techniques allow engineers to manipulate metals at the molecular level. ##Superstring Theory #TECH16 One of the more contentious debates that ran through the physics community of 20th century Earth centered on the viability of {Superstring Theory}. This theory attempts to unify the theory of gravity and other fundamental forces, and posits that all characteristics exhibited by subatomic particles, such as protons and neutrons, may be described as vibrations of fundamental, one-dimensional ‘strings’. This concept had been abandoned as untestable, until the development of [Nonlinear Mathematics (C2)], which offers mathematical models supporting {Superstring Theory}. ##Advanced Military Algorithms #TECH17 Military requirements have historically pushed technology forward, and no better example can be found than sophisticated software development. From the first computers, designed to calculate artillery shell trajectories, to {Advanced Military Algorithms} developed from [Adaptive Doctrine (C3)] and [Optical Computers (D3)], mankind has worked to extend warfare into the digital world. ##Monopole Magnets #TECH18 Magnetism, like electricity and gravity, is one of the fundamental forces of the universe. Prior to research in [Superstring Theory (C5)] and [Silksteel Alloys (E4)], all known magnets were dipolar, with a north and a south pole. Development of a {Monopole Magnet} permits radical new applications for science and industry. ##Matter Compression #TECH19 Breakthroughs in [Nanominiaturization (B8)] and [Nanometallurgy (E8)] lead to complex {Matter Compression} techniques. Using these techniques, scientists can create materials as dense as the inside of a star, with significant military and industrial applications. ##Unified Field Theory #TECH20 Scientists have long worked towards a single theory that explains all fundamental forces in nature (gravity, magnetism, etc.)-a {Unified Field Theory}. Advances in [Monopole Magnets (B6)] and [Applied Relativity (D5)] help reveal these fundamental mechanics of the universe. ##Graviton Theory #TECH21 [Quantum Machinery (D12)] and [Mind\Machine Interface (B6)] pave the way for an understanding of gravity-the weakest fundamental force in the universe, but one that acts at infinite distances. With {Graviton Theory}, physicists can detect and measure the long-predicted gravitons-particle strings that ‘carry’ gravitational force. ##Polymorphic Software #TECH22 On Earth, only theoretical mathematicians and entertainment software programmers used {Polymorphic Software}—self-modifying code—to any success. On Planet, the requirements of the budding [Industrial Base (B1)] and [Information Networks (D1)] spur widespread development of neural net applications that rewrite themselves in response to data inputs. ##Applied Gravitonics #TECH23 Once physicists discover [Graviton Theory (E13)], they turn their attention to {Applied Gravitonics}—the control of gravity itself. By controlling and manipulating the graviton strings that carry gravitational force, mankind can levitate objects regardless of mass or proximity to other objects. ##Quantum Power #TECH25 Earth scientist Max Planck first coined the term “quantum” to describe an individual particle of light. Planck though each quantum was indivisible, so that a fraction of a quantum could not exist. One of the more startling discoveries arising from [Unified Field Theory] was that individual quantum actually could be split into component sub-particles, much like atoms may be split through fission. The energy released by {Quantum Power} is several orders of magnitude greater than ordinary [Fusion Power]. ##Singularity Mechanics #TECH26 Knowledge of [The Secrets of Creation (D11)] paved the way for understanding {Singularity Mechanics}. This technology seeks the physical causes and composition of black holes-phenomena produced by points of infinitely dense matter that warp the fabric of space and time itself. Probes guided by onboard [Self-aware Machines (B11)] transmit the data necessary to replicate this natural occurrence in controlled laboratory conditions. ##Controlled Singularity #TECH27 As engineers quickly discovered, it’s one thing to understand [Singularity Mechanics (D12)] and another thing entirely to attempt {Controlled Singularity}—harnessing and directing the powers of a black hole. Breakthroughs in [Applied Gravitronics (E14)] finally make this technology possible, with a host of amazing and potent applications, from radical new types of weaponry to global power sources. ##Temporal Mechanics #TECH28 Breakthroughs in [Eudaimonia (E12)] and [Matter Transmission (B17)] lead to the last great discovery of the physical universe: {Temporal Mechanics}, the manipulation of time itself. ##Probability Mechanics #TECH29 With operating systems powered by [Pre-sentient Algorithms (D5)], computers finally gain sufficient processing power to unravel the mysteries of {Probability Mechanics}. With this breakthrough, scientists can accurately predict many seemingly random events. ##Pre-Sentient Algorithms #TECH30 The philosophy of [Cyberethics (B4)] and the technology of [Advanced Military Algorithms (E3)] pave the way for development of {Pre-sentient Algorithms}. These open-ended neural net programs can sort and process exebytes of data, ‘learning’ as they do so and adapting to the world they observe. ##Super Tensile Solids #TECH31 The requirements of [Advanced Spaceflight (E8)] and the possibilities inherent in [Matter Compression (C9)] lead to research in {Super Tensile Solids}. These materials possess such strength as to be functionally unbreakable in a natural environment. ##Planetary Networks #TECH32 Once the colonists discovered how to survive, they focus on recreating some of the organizational tools left behind on Earth. Following the implementation of simple [Information Networks (D1)], the creation of a standard for {Planetary Networks} emerges as a high priority for the scientific community. ##Digital Sentience #TECH33 When utilized as part of [Industrial Nanorobotics (B9)], the [Mind\Machine Interface (B6)] provides the key spark needed by computers to at last achieve {Digital Sentience}. These new artificial intelligences have all the hallmarks of an individual organism: they respond to their environment, adapt to stimuli, and even exhibit advanced ‘personalities’ based on their respective abilities and preferences. ##Self-Aware Machines #TECH34 Following the advent of [Digital Sentience (D10)], computers have only one great leap left: the evolution to {Self-Aware Machines}. Advances in [N-Space Compression [D11]) provide the storage capacity needed for this technology. These machines are capable of complex, higher-order thinking, and value the experience of existence as much as any biological being. As with other living organisms, self-preservation is paramount for these specimens. ##Doctrine: Initiative #TECH35 The slow moving foils and transports developed under [Doctrine: Flexibility (E2)] provided an adequate early naval force. However, materials and manufacturing advances resulting from [Industrial Automation (B3)] make possible new classes of powerful ships developed as part of {Doctrine: Initiative}, which stresses the importance of global naval superiority. ##Doctrine: Flexibility #TECH36 Many radical young military officers felt that [Doctrine: Mobility (E1)] did not go far enough in the development of fast attacks and quick reconnaissance, because Mobility only takes land forces into account. These leaders work to create the first navies on Planet, based on {Doctrine: Flexibility}—co-ordination and co-operation between forces made possible by control of the sea. ##Intellectual Integrity #TECH37 The search for {Intellectual Integrity} arises from questions posed by [Ethical Calculus (E2)] and [Doctrine: Loyalty (C2)]. According to this philosophy, valid wisdom comes merely from asking questions unburdened by prejudices. Only by shedding those pre-conceived notions can we achieve the clarity of undistorted knowledge. ##Synthetic Fossil Fuels #TECH38 The extreme efficiency with which the neural net fungus managed Planet’s vast ecosystem kept extensive deposits of organic material from forming over the epochs. Because of this lack, the fossil fuels known on Earth never developed, forcing early colonists to rely on less efficient alternative sources of energy. However, advances in [Advanced Subatomic Theory (B3)] and [Gene Splicing (B3)] finally allow scientists to short-circuit the eons-long process, providing them with the {Synthetic Fossil Fuels} needed to build advanced vehicles and machinery. ##Doctrine: Air Power #TECH39 The colonists had brought the knowledge of atmospheric flight to Planet, but not the materials to build and maintain large quantities of aircraft in Planet’s harsh conditions. With the discovery of [Synthetic Fossil Fuels (E4)] for materials and a renewed emphasis on [Doctrine: Flexibility (E2)], pilots can again make the leap into the clouds. ##Photon/Wave Mechanics #TECH40 Physicists had puzzled over the mystery of light for centuries: Why does light exhibit properties characteristic of both a wave and a particle? In 1924, Prince Louis-Victor de Broglie, a French scientist, proved that all particles actually possess a wave aspect, which explained how light can act as a wave even though it does consist of particles, called photons. Following breakthroughs in [Silksteel Alloys (E4)] and [Applied Relativity (D5)], subsequent scientific inquiry focuses on the manipulation of {Photon\Wave Mechanics} so that light, even powerful laser beams or intense solar emissions, can be diffused and warped as needed. ##Mind/Machine Interface #TECH41 Research into [Neural Grafting (C4)] demonstrated that direct communications between the brain and a digital counterpart are theoretically possible. This {Mind\Machine Interface}, requested by leaders implementing [Doctrine: Air Power (E5)] for a new generation of aircraft, bridges the gap between the mechanical and the biological. ##Nanominiaturization #TECH42 [Monopole Magnets (B6)] and [Organic Superlubricants (C7)] lead to a revolution in engineering: {Nanominiaturization}. With this technology, which emphasizes new assembly methods and high-tensile strength materials, microscopic machine components can be constructed and all manner of bulky, heavy equipment can be shrunk to a fraction of its original size. ##Doctrine: Loyalty #TECH43 [Doctrine: Mobility (E1)] proved a sound dogma for the early years on Planet. However, as the struggle for survival against native Mind Worms and rival factions intensifies, many younger officers repudiate the old guard’s emphasis on Mobility as the dominant military policy. Based also on the revelations of [Social Psych (B1)], the new {Doctrine: Loyalty} stresses extensive training, defensive facilities, and zealous dedication to faction leaders as the foundation for survival and success in combat. {Doctrine: Loyalty} emphasizes a two-way fealty—soldiers are expected to lay down their lives without question, but in return they receive respect, power, and positions of authority in the new social hierarchy. ##Ethical Calculus #TECH44 Throughout the history of mankind, philosophers have grappled with the question: ‘How shall we then live?’ {Ethical Calculus} lays down mathematical principles uncovered by [Social Psych (B1)] to address this question, essentially providing calculations and functions that determine appropriate behavior. ##Industrial Economics #TECH45 Early industry on Planet centered on the creation of a frontier [Industrial Base (B1)] featuring primitive assembly lines and simple currency instruments. Soon, leaders in the financial sectors push for a more comprehensive {Industrial Economics} policy to accommodate free trade and other strategies for multiplying capital. ##Industrial Automation #TECH46 The creation of [Planetary Networks (D2)] and widespread adoption of [Industrial Economics (B2)] lead to rapid industrialization of the virgin Planet. Lacking the traditional masses of Earth’s working class, leaders must now develop complete {Industrial Automation} for production and assembly , building modest factories where all repetitive non-skilled jobs, from janitor to VP of Sales, are handled by sophisticated robotics. ##Centauri Meditation #TECH47 [Centauri Empathy (E3)] and [Ecological Engineering (E4)] reveal the vastness and complexity of the ecosystem on Planet. Research into {Centauri Meditation} illuminates the next, almost terrifying step-the attempt to communicate directly with Planet itself. ##Secrets of the Human Brain #TECH48 All past research on memory, learning, the senses, and other aspects of the brain did not answer one basic question: what is the biological mechanism of self-awareness? Research into [Biogenetics (D1)] and [Social Psych (B1)] finally resolves the last of the {Secrets of the Human Brain}, providing an understanding of the fundamentals of consciousness. ##Gene Splicing #TECH49 Widespread adoption of the philosophy of [Ethical Calculus (E2)] removes opposition to genetic experimentation in plant and animal DNA, while advances in [Biogenetics (D1)] provide techniques for the incipient field of {Gene Splicing}. This technology allows researchers to insert new DNA coding into existing genetic material so that entire traits, from disease resistance to a stable personality, can be copied from one organism and transferred to any number of others. ##Bio-Engineering #TECH50 [Gene Splicing (B3)] and [Neural Grafting (C4)] exemplify crude and invasive techniques for modifying an organism. The more refined {Bio-engineering} method arranges a desired genetic code directly from the component compounds, enabling widespread and economical cellular transplants for an entire population. ##Biomachinery #TECH51 Early experiments in [Retroviral Engineering (C5)] and the [Mind\Machine Interface (B6)] paved the way for true {Biomachinery}—the full integration of man and machine at the cellular level. ##Neural Grafting #TECH52 The insatiable drive for efficiency spawned by [Industrial Automation (B3)] drives the development of {Neural Grafting}. This new technology, based on [Secrets of the Human Brain (D2)], allows attachment of digital circuitry directly to the neural cortex. With these implants, individuals willing to undergo {Neural Grafting} can enhance many aspects of their physical being, from heightened senses to faster reaction times. ##Cyberethics #TECH53 Widespread adoption of [Planetary Networks (D2)] and the philosophy of [Intellectual Integrity (E3)] allows for a coherent system of {Cyberethics}, outlining the proper relationship of computers to society. ##Eudaimonia #TECH54 {Eudaimonia} is a philosophical system that takes its name from an ancient Greek word for fulfillment and happiness. Based on economic equity made possible by [Sentient Econometrics (E11)] and rooted in opposition to the excesses of [The Will to Power (E8)], {Eudaimonia} encourages each citizen to achieve happiness through striving to fulfill completely his or her potential; freedom, creativity, and individuality flourish in governments that adopt this philosophy. ##The Will to Power #TECH55 Following the development of [Homo Superior (E7)], many advocated a return to Friedrich Nietzsche’s philosophy of {The Will To Power}. This philosophy stresses the importance of strength, asceticism, and resolute action, often at the cost of compassion, charity, and other traditionally religious qualities. ##Threshold of Transcendence #TECH56 The [Secrets of Creation (D11)] and [Temporal Mechanics (B18)] brought sentient beings to the brink of a new era—the {Threshold of Transcendence}. In this transitional state, individuals begin preparations for the final stage of evolution, selling possessions, cleansing their bodies according to a new code of asceticism, and meditating alone and unprotected in the remote regions of Planet. ##Matter Transmission #TECH57 [Matter Editation (B16)] and the [Secrets of Alpha Centauri (D12)] point the way to one of the most celebrated concepts in science fiction—{Matter Transmission}. Transmitters based on this technology disassemble objects into the smallest component sub-particles, then transmits those particles and their underlying structural blueprint to a receiver. The receiver reassembles these objects according to the blueprint, recreating the original in every nuance and detail. ##Centauri Empathy #TECH58 Based on [Secrets of the Human Brain (D2)] and [Centauri Ecology (E1)], {Centauri Empathy} espouses a philosophy of environmental harmony, emphasizing the search for mankind’s proper niche in the global ecosystem. ##Environmental Economics #TECH59 Industrial expansion often comes at the cost of ecological stability. The business practice of {Environmental Economics} addresses this problem by finding and exploiting areas where environmental and industrial concerns overlap, such as sustainable resource use, eco-tourism, and organic product development. By combining the principles of [Industrial Economics (B2)] and [Ecological Engineering (E4)] in this new business model, ecological stability becomes a profitable endeavor. ##Ecological Engineering #TECH60 Lifeforms have always shown remarkable skill at innovation and ingenuity in the face of environmental hurdles. Expansion on a new Planet highlights these traits once again in the form of {Ecological Engineering}. Based on the discoveries of [Centauri Ecology (E1)] and [Gene Splicing (B3)], this research leads to new ways of thriving within the existing ecosystem, rather than competing with it. ##Planetary Economics #TECH61 Early industrial policy on Planet centered on individual markets and sectors, such as [Environmental Economics (B5)], but these separate sectors create inefficiencies. Proponents of [Intellectual Integrity (E3)] insist that these inefficiencies are unnecessary, and work to create a system of {Planetary Economics} where goods and services can flow freely. ##Adv. Ecological Engineering #TECH62 The discovery of [Fusion Power (D6)] opened up staggering possibilities in a number of endeavors, including the field of [Environmental Economics (B5)]. Based on the cumulative experience from thousands of construction projects undertaken since Planetfall, {Advanced Ecological Engineering} marks a new milestone in man’s ability to manipulate his environment. ##Centauri Psi #TECH63 [Centauri Genetics (E6)] and [Advanced Ecological Engineering (B10)] revealed the physical composition of native life forms, but did not explain the mysterious and terrifying psionic attacks these creatures employ. Unlocking the mechanics of this directed, psychic assault requires intense investigation of {Centauri Psi}—the method used by the Mind Worms to communicate and co-ordinate their assaults. ##Secrets of Alpha Centauri #TECH64 Some digital sentiences churn through exebytes of Planet-related data in their never-ending quest to untangle [Sentient Econometrics (E11)]. The best of these sentiences do not stop at sorting economic data, but extend their inquiries into [Centauri Psi (E11)] and other Planetary phenomena. They work to reveal these {Secrets of Alpha Centauri} as a kind of personal challenge, to prove themselves as machines that can not only conquer the intricacies of society, but also the magnificent complexities of a Planet-wide ecosystem. ##Secrets of Creation #TECH65 Those who embrace [The Will To Power (E8)] must eventually confront the ultimate philosophical question: What is the purpose and order of the universe? Confirmation of the [Unified Field Theory (C7)] finally gives mankind the tools to answer this question in the search for the {Secrets of Creation}. ##Advanced Spaceflight #TECH66 Resumption of {Advanced Spaceflight} begins shortly after mankind begins [Orbital Spaceflight (E7)]. With this technology, spacecraft can once again reach the moons orbiting Planet and, eventually, the stars themselves. ##Homo Superior #TECH67 Breakthroughs in [Biomachinery (B9)] and [Doctrine: Initiative (E5)] paved the way for a new kind of organism that is equal parts biological and computer. The biological aspect thrives at physical manipulation and emotional experience, while the digital aspect excels at calculation and data processing. This {Homo Superior} integrates the best of biological and machine. ##Organic Superlubricant #TECH68 Machines with moving parts have long been subject to wear and tear as the parts grind against one another. On Earth, traditional lubricants such as oil were used to minimize these effects. Planet lacks large reserves of such materials, until the invention of [Synthetic Fossil Fuels (E4)]. With {Organic Superlubricant}, scientists can create lubricating compounds that act like simple life forms, seeking out areas where they do the most good. ##Quantum Machinery #TECH69 The discovery of [Quantum Power (B11)] ushers in a new industrial revolution. In factories across Planet, tiny {Quantum Machinery} built using [Nanometallurgy (E8)] techniques provide amazingly powerful and efficient labor for every imaginable type of production and service. ##Matter Editation #TECH71 Not long after the breakthroughs in [Super Tensile Solids (B10)] and [Self-aware Machines (B11)], engineers clamor to research the last major hurdle in physical manipulation—{Matter Editation}. This technique actually changes the physical structure of individual atoms, altering characteristics like energy states, spin, atomic weight, and the number of protons as though they were entries in a database. This technology is the modern embodiment of the ancient quest to turn lead into gold-transmutation of elements made possible by atomic manipulation. ##Optical Computers #TECH72 The widespread adoption of [Polymorphic Software (D2)] increased demand for faster computers. The revolutionary {Optical Computers}, which use photons traveling at the speed of light for binary calculations, prove nearly 70% faster than old electron-based devices. Based on successes in [Applied Physics (C1)], {Optical Computers} also exponentially improve storage capacities and access times. ##Industrial Nanorobotics #TECH73 The business leaders of Planet quickly perceived the commercial potential of [Nanominiaturizion (B8)], and constructed factories based around {Industrial Nanorobotics}. These factories utilize traditional [Industrial Automation (B3)], but at a fraction of the size and cost. Productivity skyrockets along with profitability, as tiny robots churn out new products for consumption. ##Centauri Genetics #TECH74 The first contacts with Planetary sentience during research on [Centauri Meditation (E5)] caused widespread excitement among the scientific community. They propose using new [Retroviral Engineering (C5)] techniques to unravel {Centauri Genetics}—the structural blueprint of native organisms. ##Sentient Econometrics #TECH75 For all the sophistication of its mathematical models, [Planetary Economics (B4)] proved no better at predicting the actions of markets and populations than Wall Street prognosticators of 20th Century Earth-there are too many unknown variables with unforeseeable consequences. Proponents of {Sentient Econometrics} take the best ‘intelligent computers’ developed under [Digital Sentience (D10)] and set them to identifying these variables and predicting their consequences. Under their diligent efforts, economics finally becomes a true science. ##Retroviral Engineering #TECH76 {Retroviral Engineering}, a specialized branch of [Bio-engineering (B4)], uses engineered viruses to deliver genetic alterations. This application can be used for peaceful, healing purposes, but can also be twisted by the same militant researchers behind [Advanced Military Algorithms (E3)] into a weapon of terrible destruction. ##Orbital Spaceflight #TECH77 The early colonists certainly bring the technical understanding of spaceflight with them, but they lack the materials and infrastructure necessary to construct spacecraft. Eventually, implementation of [Doctrine: Air Power (E5)] furnishes the infrastructure, while advanced [Pre-sentient Algorithms (D5)] provide the tools for mankind’s return to {Orbital Spaceflight}. ##Progenitor Psych #TECH78 The Progenitors, an alien race with past ties to Planet, return to reclaim their heritage. {Progenitor Psych} is nothing more than a simple understanding of the aliens’ culture, language, and aims. Humans cannot talk to either alien faction until they discover Progenitor Psych, or until the Progenitors discover [Social Psych (B1)]. ##Field Modulation #TECH79 The Progenitor race can sense and manipulate local fields an untrained human cannot perceive without mechanical aid, including electricity and magnetism. Built on an understanding of [Progenitor Psych (E1)] and [Centauri Ecology (E1], the discovery of {Field Modulation} allows trained and equipped individuals to detect and perform basic manipulations of these ‘resonance fields’. ##Adaptive Doctrine #TECH80 {Adaptive Doctrine} combines [Polymorphic Software (D2)] and [Doctrine: Flexibility (E2)] into a new military philosophy. This philosophy strives to match a doctrine to each battlefield, rather than trying to making one supreme doctrine for all possible environments. ##Adaptive Economics #TECH81 Coming from an understanding of [Progenitor Psych (E1)] and [Industrial Economics (B2)], {Adaptive Economics} can accommodate rapid changes in economic systems to match the needs of the populace. ##Bioadaptive Resonance #TECH82 {Bioadaptive Resonance} is a more advanced form of [Field Modulation (C2)] that allows extensive manipulation of resonance fields. An understanding of [Centauri Empathy (E3)] is essential to discovery of this technology. ##Sentient Resonance #TECH83 {Sentient Resonance} is a further extension of [Bioadaptive Resonance (C4)] and [Centauri Psi (E8)] that allows the creation of self-aware resonance fields. ##Secrets of the Manifolds #TECH84 Planet is only one of the grand experiments, or Manifolds, seeded throughout the galaxy by the Progenitor forebears. Discovery of the {Secrets of the Manifolds} allows the perception and contact of these other Planetary Manifolds. This technology is based on an understanding of [Sentient Resonance (C9)] and [Secrets of Alpha Centauri (D12)]. ##N-Space Compression #TECH85 {N-Space Compression} is a Progenitor term that loosely translates as “The shortest distance between two points is always 0, because any two points in our perceivable space are actually contiguous in some other universe, postulating infinity.” Compression simply brings things that appear to be in one place (such as a bulky missile payload) to another place (such as a missile warhead) at will (such as only at a time just prior to detonation). This technology is based on an understanding of [Orbital Spaceflight (D6)] and [Biomachinery (B7)]. ##String Resonance #TECH86 Based on [Secrets of the Manifolds (D10)] and [Controlled Singularity (C15)], {String Resonance} allows the manipulation of resonance fields at even the “string” level (the one-dimensional building blocks of matter). The ability to manipulate the very structure of the universe allows for awesome destructive power. ##Transcendent Thought #TECH88 Based on [Controlled Singularity (C16)] and [Threshold of Transcendence (E19)], this technology finally unlocks the keys to the final stage of evolution with {Transcendent Thought}—the ability to contain a self-awareness, or ‘soul’, outside the bounds of a corporeal form. Those who so choose may now complete the Ascent to Transcendence, joining their consciousness with the Planetary mind in ageless immortality. # ; This line must remain at end of file