INSTRUMENTED PROBES

	The detailed examination of many objects and phenomena in the 
Milky Way galaxy can be handled routinely by the shipÕs onboard sensor 
arrays, up to the resolution limits of the individual instruments and to the 
limits of available data extraction algorithms used in extrapolating values 
from combinations of instrument readings. Greater proportions of high-
resolution data of selected sites can be gathered using close approaches by 
instrumented probe spacecraft. These probes are generally sized to fit the 
fore and aft photon torpedo launchers, providing rapid times-to-target. Three 
larger classes of autonomous probes are based upon existing shuttlecraft 
spaceframes that have been stripped of all personnel support systems and 
then densely packed with sensor and telemetry hardware.

GENERAL USE PROBES

	The small probes are divided into nine classes, arranged according 
to sensor types, power, and performance ratings. The features common to all 
nine are spacecraft frames of gamma molded duranium-tritanium and 
pressure-bonded lufium boronate, with certain sensor windows of triple 
layered transparent aluminum. Sensors not utilizing the windows are affixed 
through various methods, from surface blending with the hull material to 
imbedding the active detectors within the hull itself. All nine classes are 
equipped with a standard suite of instruments to detect and analyze all 
normal EM and subspace bands, organic and inorganic chemical 
compounds, atmospheric constituents, and mechanical force properties. 
While all are capable of at least surviving a powered atmospheric entry, 
three are designed to function for extended periods of aerial maneuvering 
and soft landing.
	Many probes include varying degrees of telerobotic operation 
capabilities to permit realtime control and piloting of the probe. This permits 
an investigation to remain on board the Enterprise while exploring what 
might otherwise be a dangerously hostile or otherwise inaccessible 
environment.
	The following section lists the specifications of each class. The 
higher class numbers are not intended to imply greater capabilities, but 
rather different options available to the command crew when ordering a 
probe launch. General use probes readied for immediate launching are 
stored adjacent to the photon torpedo reactant loading area on Deck 25. 
Other standby probes are stored on Deck 26 on standard torpedo transfer 
pallets. All probes are accessible to Engineering crews for periodic status 
checks and modifications for unique applications.  Æ