Doomsday at Terra

"So if we use the Freight Ships, how many can we shuttle in the time we have?"

Apollo calculated. High density on one of the Gemenon frieghters was about 500 souls. It would be intolerable for more than a few days, but it could work. Figure 400 to make sure. A week round trip to Paradeen and four of those. "About 1600 people, sir."

"Hmmm" Adama said. "I would think we have more Spacelift than that."

'We do sir,"Adama said, "But we use it to support the fleet."

How many can we take with us."

"We've experienced casualties and natural deaths." Tighe said, "the latest information from the Fleet Department of Housing is that we have 865 open billets."

"Could we adapt their transports to accompany us?" Adama asked.

Apollo was suprised. "All of the research has been directed toward making combat craft."

"They do have some bulk carriers and troop transports that might be adapted."

Tighe shook his head. 'Those primitive ships look pretty risky."

"Look into it" Adama said. "At worst we can nurse them a few parsecs out of harms way."

'Say", Apollo said, "If we can get their ships on the step, we could use the big ones for a couple runs to Paradeen before they left with us."

It could mean additional hundreds or thousands.." Adama said.

"What about the ones we can't evacuate?" Doctor scanalon asked.

The mood in the room sobered. "Their lives will depend on the success of the defense."