Object
Geophysical Lab Spectral Readout (UV absorption / Ico-spectrogram / 'tanker' waveform)
A narrow spectral diagnostic display on the Geophysical Laboratory console that renders ultraviolet absorption peaks, narrow-band resonant signatures and a pale waveform labeled 'tanker'. The console shows stacked numeric spectra, scrolling timestamps and false-color/line waveforms; brief spikes and labeled markers flag anomalies. Characters (Wesley, Davies, Hildebrant) lean toward the same console; the trace's faint anomalies prompt Wesley to request a full Ico-spectrogram and produce the ensuing argument. Serves as the plot-triggering technical readout in the Pen Pals geophysical lab scene.
2 appearances
Purpose
To present ultraviolet absorption spectra gathered by the geophysical lab sensors so technicians and officers can detect anomalous material signatures and decide whether to escalate to more detailed diagnostics (such as an Ico-spectrogram).
Significance
Serves as the crucial, material clue that prompts Wesley to press for a time-consuming Ico-spectrogram; the dismissal of the readout’s significance undermines Wesley’s budding authority and seeds his later act of defiance, making the readout a catalyst for character development and plot escalation.
Appearances in the Narrative
When this object appears and how it's used