You are strapped in at the bridge of the Asterion. The walls are displaying a countdown. The eyes of the world are on the launch.
5
At your right, Virginia Rein, the veteran of four dozen launches, stares ahead with confidence.
4
At your left, Kosmo your wealthy secretary swivels his one metal eye towards you and winks.
3
In the corner of your display, the view switches to crowds of people watching on big screens in city squares in all three regions of the world.
2
You take a deep breath. You are leaving the Earth, Luna, everything you've ever known on a one-way trip to Jupiter.
1