Discovery of a Signal: An intercepted signal coming from the Moon is a classic, high-stakes science fiction trigger, a compelling event that triggers this (fictional) mission to the Moon.

The NASA/ESA angle: This is an ambiguous signal—perhaps complex, repeating patterns similar to the fictional "DNA-style" signals sometimes theorized in other contexts, that are only initially picked up by a deep-space network or a specific lunar-observing mission. The ambiguity necessitates a manned mission to investigate.

HAL and the ARK's Role: Our idea of HAL and the ARK being the only entities with the data and computing power to decode or properly survey the signal's source is cinematic gold. This creates a reliance on the specialized crew and technology, justifying their central role in the mission.

Evidence of Life: The discovery of evidence of other life on the Moon is a monumental event that would instantly trigger a high-priority mission.

The Nature of the Find: This might not be a living organism, but a biosignature—perhaps an unexpected concentration of organic molecules, fossils in an ice sample from a permanently shadowed crater, or a unique biological byproduct found by a robotic lander or rover (like the kind used in current Mars or icy moon exploration proposals). All of these possibilities are for John Storm to discover and interpret.

HAL and the ARK's Role: If the discovery is a subtle anomaly in vast datasets (e.g., spectral analysis of lunar dust or ice), the advanced data processing capabilities of HAL and the ARK would be crucial for initial identification and later, for guiding the human investigation on the lunar surface. This adds a layer of mystery and technical necessity.

Anya Sharma is a self-made technology billionaire, looking to the stars for answers. She is a secret supporter of John Storm, after his exploits on the high seas, and the saving of Kulo-Luna, the humpback whale that defied whaling pirates.

Anya becomes the Director of NASA, having been a consultant to the American Space Administration for a number of years. She knew the Dr. Elias Vance was scapegoated, and bankrolled the design genius, to get his started on one of the greatest challenges of his life; the conversion of the Elizabeth Swann, to the "SpaceArk", specifically to investigate a subsurface structure, that NASA is not prepared to go out on a limb over.

She is in awe of Musket Meloni, the world's first trillionaire, also an advocate of space exploration.

CAST 0F CHARACTERS

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This is a work of fiction, the characters are the product of the authors imagination, except where real or historical persons are included

But where that may be so, the thoughts and actions of those persons is fictional and not those of any historical or real person.