Off the Beam

Name: Off the Beam
Author: George O. Smith

By George O. Smith

Open in WeRead

Explore more books like this:

Science-Fiction & Fantasy

About This Book

A deep-space freighter on the run from Mars to Earth navigates by remote beam guidance and depends on automated systems and scheduled maintenance while a communications specialist and crew manage routine cathode replacements. During a turnover a fleeting relay failure permits a small meteor to pierce the ship, devastating the pilot greenhouse and critical control circuits and forcing the crew into acute damage control. The account blends technical procedure and crew interaction as characters rapidly assess failures, attempt repairs, and confront the vulnerabilities of one-way communications and fallible automation under life-threatening, high-speed conditions.

About the Author

George O. Smith

George O. Smith was an American science fiction writer known for his imaginative storytelling and contributions to the genre during the mid-20th century. He gained recognition for his ability to blend scientific concepts with engaging narratives, as seen in works like "Alien" and "Amateur in Chancery." Smith's writing often explored themes of technology and human experience, making him a notable figure in speculative fiction. Throughout his career, he produced a diverse array of stories, including titles such as "Beam Pirate" and "Highways in Hiding," showcasing his versatility and creativity as an author.