To Boldly Go In Vauxhall

Review of my Starship Mission at Bridge Command

Since 1979 Vauxhall has been home to the British Interplanetary Society, an organisation formed in 1933 with the aim of promoting the exploration of space for the benefit of humanity.

For most of us the notion of actually travelling to the stars is the stuff of dreams, something far beyond our grasp. But now, thanks to Bridge Command, also based in Vauxhall, you can experience what it would be like to embark on a voyage across the galaxy as a crew member of a starship.

This imersive experience allows you to sign up for one of a number of missions including diplomacy, exploration, intrigue and military. There also a cadet mission aimed at kids. Their website includes a chronology, background narrative, and history of the United Confederation Navy, which your starship is part of, and sets the time period of your mission in the year 2180.

I went on a military mission onboard the starship UCS Takanami to rescue a mining ship in a distant nebula which had been attacked by space pirates.

On arrival you are welcomed and issued with a uniform and insignia related to your mission.  You are then 'beamed' up to the mess area of a space station where there is array of suitably scifi orientated cocktails on offer.

This is followed by a briefing on the background to your mission before you enter an airlock which leads to your star ship. A quick  tour familiarises you with the medical room, the engine room and the various energy sources used to power the starship. Then it is on to the bridge, where each of the members of your crew are allocated their role and tasks and shown how to operate the control consoles linked to their stations. Roles include pilot, navigation, engineering, communications, and weapons, and of course the key role of Captain.

Your mission begins as you navigator locks in on your destination and your captain gives the order to launch, each member of the team interacting and playing their role. There's meteor storms to be navigated through and emergency situations when power begins to deplete and crystals have to be replaced, as well as attacks by hostile enemies. Decisions have to be taken, sometimes by the captain, sometimes collectively by the crew, sometimes in consultation with captains of other ships. Characters appear on the big screen on the bridge with messages for the captain and the crew. Sometimes friendly messages from allies, sometimes hostile messages from foes out to thwart your mission.

I had lots of fun locking on enemy craft, deploying beams and missiles, and raising protective shields. Our mission was a success, although our ship sustained a damage level of 45% from enemy fire. The mission last around two hours, including a short debrief. You can also remain in the mess area for another cocktail after your mission if you wish. It was a fun and exciting experience.

I'd recommend going with a group of friends or family to make the mission and teamwork more fun. 

Bridge Command