atmospheric-chemistry

Orlando Venetti, a clone in an interstellar polis, wakes up after centuries to learn that their destination star system, Voltaire, has been studied with improved instruments revealing surprising atmospheric chemistry on its innermost planet, Swift. The planet's atmosphere contains heavy isotopes in unusual proportions, suggesting deliberate transmutation and artificial manipulation to prolong its habitability, hinting at advanced intervention or life. Orlando reflects on his personal losses, the nature of software existence, and the ongoing search for meaning in the Diaspora's exploration of distant worlds.