LM04 Jetpack Module

CV, Max CPU, Unlock Level 25, Class 2

[table][tr][td]Works only in Reforged Galaxy and Reforged Eden. This ship uses thrusters, a radar, and a shield generator only available in Reforged-based scenarios.[/td][/tr][/table]

Now every module is high-G!

The LM04 Jetpack Module is designed to transfer Helios-MSC modules to and from planets of varying gravity. It has approximately 1,000 MN of lift thrust, which is enough to lift 20 320k containers filled with voidium off of a 1G planet. Hopefully that's enough for anybody. She has enough generators to take full advantage of boost, but use it carefully when fully loaded as the generators may still peak a bit. Fortunately they are easily accessible for repair.

The ship has two thruster modes controlled by signal switches in the control panel (P-menu). When the "Docking Thrust" signal switch is on the ship is moved by a handful of smaller thrusters that make it easy to maneuver for docking and general transport. When carrying a module also flip on the "Full Load Thrust" switch to activate all remaining thrusters for max lift and maneuvering. Remember to switch off the "Full Load Thrust" mode if you are trying to dock the ship to the Helios. If you leave it on, with that much thrust on a light frame you're likely to clip your ship straight into the flight deck with even a light press of the spacebar. Separating merged ships is not covered under the standard warranty. Our lawyers really wanted us to stress that last point.

For defense you only have the bare basics. It comes equipped with a compact shield generator to absorb ground fire while the bottom-mounted minigun and sentry turrets clean up ground troops. But really, your best weapon is the detector. Use it to avoid any hostile areas, as the ship is not designed to survive damage (if you're wondering "Does it chain?" the answer is yes. Spectacularly). If you do want to stand a better chance against troops or drones there is CPU left to upgrade the minigun turrets to their T2 variety or to replace them with other turrets of your choice.

The module does not dock into the Helios using the standard guides. It is designed to slide into the bay sideways. This takes some practice and a bit of manipulation of the 3rd person camera to align, but if you slide along the roof you should be able to achieve a snug fit. Port and starboard walkways along the top of the craft lead to the mid-section elevators that will take you down to the Helios bay entrance. All nearby engines should shut down so you are not baked to a crisp on your walk, but you may still take some radiation. Wearing lead underpants is advised.

Docking Modules to the LM04

In space you can dock a module to the LM04 the same way you would dock a ship to the Helios. On planets the easiest way to dock a module is to first land the LM04 on top of the module and maneuver it to fit snugly against the front. Take one of the two front elevators down to the front deck, board the module, and when you enter the module's pilot seat the craft should register its proximity to the LM04 and latch the landing gears. This process is how you can mount an over-loaded module that can no longer lift under its own thrust.

For undocking on planets you can usually just land the LM04 on the ground, enter the docked module, and reverse thrust it out of the docking position. In some situations you may need to hover the LM04 just slightly above the ground, then enter the module, back it off, and let gravity take care of the rest. If the LM04 remains too high to reach you can turn it off through the registry and it will drop. Then access the ship from the front deck of your module, or from the ground using either of the two ramps under the front deck.

Built for the March 2021 Anvil Designer's Challenge, which was to build a carrier/module system or modules for an existing system.

Construction

• Thrusters, baling wire, hope. Some steel.

Offense / Defense

• Compact shield generator
• 2x Minigun turrets
• 4x Sentry turrets

Storage:

• 2x 14k Ammo (walkways)
• 2x 16k Cargo (walkways)
• 1x 8k Cargo (bridge)

Equipment:

• Long range radar
• Medical chamber
• O2 station
• Wifi