Fabula
Object
Object

Auton Tank

Channing channels energy from the alien globe into the Auton tank in the Nestene-controlled UNIT control room. The creature inside pulses with each transfer, signaling readiness under Channing's supervision. Scobie 2 approves the process while Hibbert stands by, marking the tank as the invasion's core activation mechanism. The ritualistic energy flow builds tension as dawn approaches.
2 appearances

Purpose

Receives energy from alien globe to power and activate the creature inside for Auton deployment

Significance

Triggers the shift from Nestene infiltration to open invasion, locking activation for dawn and forcing the Doctor and UNIT into a final race against time

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments
S7E4 · Spearhead from Space Part 4
Channing initiates the Auton invasion

The neuron in the Auton tank serves as a visual indicator of the energy transfer's success. As Channing completes the transfer, the neuron swings back and forth, drawing the attention of Channing, Scobie 2, and Hibbert. This motion confirms the process's completion and the tank's readiness to activate the Autons at dawn. The neuron symbolizes the Nestene's control over the activation mechanism and the impending doom for Earth, as it marks the final step before the Auton army is unleashed.

Before: The neuron is stationary inside the Auton tank, awaiting the energy transfer from the alien globe. It is a critical component of the activation mechanism, ready to signal the completion of the process.
After: The neuron swings back and forth inside the Auton tank, indicating the successful completion of the energy transfer. It confirms the tank's readiness to activate the Autons at dawn, marking the final step in the Nestene's invasion plan.
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S7E4 · Spearhead from Space Part 4
Channing locks invasion timeline

The Auton tank serves as the central receptacle for the energy transfer from the alien globe. As Channing positions the globe beneath a steel duct connected to the tank, the creature inside begins pulsing in sync with the globe's energy. The tank's rhythmic pulses and the swinging neuron indicate the successful transfer of energy, priming the Autons for activation at dawn. This object is the narrative and functional core of the Nestene's invasion plan, symbolizing their collective power and the impending activation of their plastic army.

Before: Inactive, awaiting the energy transfer from the alien globe. The neuron inside is stationary, and the tank is not pulsing.
After: Fully charged and primed for activation. The neuron swings back and forth, and the tank pulses in sync with the transferred energy, ready to deploy the Autons at dawn.
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