TREKCORE > DEEP SPACE NINE > SHIPS & STATIONS > 'Pup'

In 2369, a probe of unknown origin emerges from the Bajoran Wormhole and is towed toward Deep Space Nine. As well as an extensive computer capacity, the probe contains an inorganic life form that causes havoc when it is downloaded into the station's computers.

DETAILS

On Stardate 46925, a small probe of unknown Gamma Quadrant origin exits the Bajoran wormhole near the Federation station Deep Space Nine. After it is towed to within five hundred metres of the station, it is determined that the probe is constructed of corundium alloy, and measures approximately 20 metres from top to bottom. Cylindrical in shape, the probe is rounded at both ends, and there is a flashing proximity beacon located on the top side. Antennas are attached to the probe at several places, and although the probe's power source is unknown, there are what appears to be several solar panels attached to both sides of the probe at right angles. In addition, a number of access panels are located at various points on the rounded exterior hull.

Scans of the probe's interior reveal a complex design. The probe contains no onboard communications link with any vessel or planet, near or distant. The probe also lacks any scientific systems for sampling or analysing data. Scans do reveal though that the probe does contain an extensive computer array, with sufficient operational power to rival the main computer of a Galaxy-class starship. High resolution scans also determine that the computer systems are incompatible with Federation and Cardassian computers, making data transfer between the probe and Deep Space Nine problematic. However, once an adaptive link interface is established, the data contained in the probe is successfully downloaded into the station's main computer core.

Initial scans of the probe indicate that there are no inorganic life forms aboard, but it becomes apparent that there is indeed an inorganic life form living within the data downloaded from it. Unknown to the crew of DS9, this simple, software-based life form quickly takes up residence on the station and integrates itself into DS9's main computer, causing station-wide systems failures; these range from annoyances to major problems. Feeding off the computer's active energy, the life form causes more and more trouble. The reason for this eventually becomes clear: it wants to keep the attention of Chief O'Brien. O'Brien likens the life form's craving for attention to that of a mischievous puppy he once owned.

O'Brien ends up creating a subprogram called Pup in the memory of the main computer. This is actually a series of bidirectional data transfer and monitoring commands that allow all backup computer functions to be rerouted through it, creating a 'virtual' computer that resides inside DS9's real main computer. When the probe command sequences are transferred out of the core memory and into Pup, the life form follows the data stream into its newly-created 'virtual doghouse.' It is decided to allow the life form to remain in its new home as a permanent resident of the station, since it can cause no further system damage. O'Brien promises Captain Sisko that he will give his new pet plenty of attention, and the alien probe that brought the 'pup' to the Alpha Quadrant is released - allowed to continue its journey.

Source: The Official STAR TREK Fact Files
Published by GE FABBRI Ltd
Produced by Aerospace Publishing Ltd