Tadpole

Databank Text

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Versatile single-pilot submarine. Provides unlimited oxygen while powered. Fabricate at a Vehicle Bay next to a moonpool—ensure that the moonpool is large and deep enough to accept the Tadpole. Recharge power cell when depleted. In the event of damage, apply standard repair tool.

The Tadpole takes damage when diving below its crush depth. This depth can be upgraded through modifications, fabricated at a modification station and installed via an external access slot.

The Tadpole has a single hardpoint for a deployable locker, work light, oxygen generator or other utility item.

The Tadpole can be docked to a range of add-on chassis constructed at the Utility Bay:
—The Scout Ray hydrofoil improves speed
—The HAUL rig adds a second hardpoint and built-in storage for extra cargo

These chassis may be swapped out in the field by undocking and redocking.

BACKGROUND
The Tadpole sea-space mobility pod is a single-seat, six-degrees-of-freedom personal transport powered by a single replaceable/rechargable power cell. Designed by AI to minimize its resource footprint, the Tadpole is a minimum-cost descendant of the popular and highly mature Seamoth/Spacemoth/Sunmoth series. (Sales brochures describe the Tadpole as an ‘aspirational beginning’.) The Tadpole can be fabricated on demand at a vehicle bay, so it is often stored in components.

The pod doubles as a command module for a series of dockable chassis, ranging from high-speed hydrofoils to powerful workmechs. With alterations to its propulsion and radiator, it can serve equally well in ocean, atmosphere or space. In its underwater configuration the Tadpole cruises on a long-helix main propeller and steers with four shrouded thrusters.

The passenger compartment is sealed with the same selective membrane used on the Super Barrique entry portal, providing both direct canopy access to the cockpit and long-requested catheterless hygiene functions.

“The Tadpole: it’s omniphibious.”