Category Archives: Favorite Images

Jul 6 2014

Shake that Cosmic Thing

“Everywhere I went up there, they were shakin’ their cosmic things” – “Cosmic Thing”, B-52’s

04.07.yc116 Saisio < Okomon Constellation < The Forge

Futzchag II, Thukker Mix Factory

Futzchag II, Thukker Mix Factory

The pod goo swirled down the drain as I twirled in the shower in tune to the rhythm that beat in my head. My feet were light as I danced and my heart was thrilled as I shook my cosmic thing. I just couldn’t keep from smiling having finished my exploration of Empire space. One-thousand, nine-hundred, and seven systems across twenty-three regions. Unbelievable! Of course, if someone were to observe what I called dancing, I’m sure they would beg to differ. When talents were handed out, I seemed to have missed that one.

After finishing my exploration of the Hahyil system in the Derelik region, I had returned to my home station in Saisio. It was time to take ‘Jester’s Trek’ out, my Tengu, that the Chief had fitted out for me. I was excited, thrilled, and nervous at the same time. Maybe even a hint of fear, but that made it all the more exciting. Still shaking my hind side and humming the tune that was stuck in my head, I had a difficult time getting my workout shorts and top on. I had made it a habit, after long periods of pod time, to exercise and keep physically fit.

I guess I should have kept my eyes open when I exited my quarters, but I was too lost in the music, just taking in the moment for all it was worth, because I slammed into the Chief as he was getting ready to ring the chime. The smile on his face matched my own then we both burst out laughing.

“I’ve missed that smile, kiddo.” He managed to get out after a moment.

Ibaria III, Thukker Mix Warehouse

Ibaria III, Thukker Mix Warehouse

“What can I say?” I replied, “It feels good to finish a major milestone.”

“Enjoy the moment, it’s well deserve.” He nodded at me thoughtfully. “Your Grandfather would be proud and I certainly am.”

I wrapped him up in a huge hug, at least as big as my tiny frame would allow, and squeezed as hard as I could. That once bright eyed, full of wonder kid had finally returned to my spirit. I had truly moved on and had let go of the past. Now I could honor my father and grandfather by continuing with the next phase of my exploration.

One last squeeze, then I patted the Chief’s back and stepped away. “He’s ready?”

“Who?” The Chief started, then chuckled. “Oh that’s right, ‘Jester’s Trek’ you mean? You know kiddo, that just ain’t right calling a ship a he instead of a she.”

I shrugged my shoulders as there was no amount of ribbing he could incur that would deter my festive attitude. “Eh… to each his own I guess.”

He rolled his eyes, but continued to smile. “Yeah, he’s ready.”

“Awesome!” I started to move my arms in a locomotion gesture and bounced on my heels in succession to that beat that was once again in my head.

Ejahi I

Ejahi I

“Don’t do that.” His face turning slightly red. “Causes me impure thoughts.”

I stopped, dropped my jaw, and then smacked his chest with the flat of my palm, “Dirty old man.”

“Damn straight.” He replied, but I could see in his eyes the care instead of a leer.

“Besides, what would Grandfather think of you?” I smarted off.

“He wouldn’t, he’d just kill me.” The Chief grinned.

“Damn straight!” I mimicked his tone. “Thanks Chief, for everything. I plan on taking a few days off, but only after I’ve worked out and taken the Tengu out for a spin. Then I’ll be scanning down a wormhole entrance to Nullsec.”

His gaze turned to one of admiration, but with a hint of concern, “You be careful out there Katia, alright? Let me know of anything, anything at all I can do and you’d better see me before you go. Copy?”

My nerves tinged again, but I smiled despite them. The time for joking had passed as he only used my given name when he was serious and deeply cared for my wellbeing. I swallowed hard, fought the tears back that wanted to fall, and hugged him once more.

“Copy that.” I sounded as official as I could. “I will, I promise.”

Jaymass IV

Jaymass IV

Jun 29 2014

Diplomats and Shout Outs

Mcopiate

Mcopiate

“You know you make me want to shout!” – “Shout”, Otis Day & the Knights

29.06.yc116 Jark < San Matar Constellation < Derelik

Most systems that I’ve explored are quiet. There are usually at least a few folks in system more often than not. From one or two capsuleers to dozens and of course, there are those empty systems too, but I would say in Empire space, there’s usually someone about or quickly passing through each system. They’re also quiet in the sense that rarely does anyone speak in local.

Kira Gene Evotori

Kira Gene Evotori

This last week, however, what I thought was static or some happenstance signal, surprised me when I was welcomed into a new system I had yet to explore. At first, I wondered if the message was intended for me, but after checking my instruments, I found only a few others in system that appeared to be locals. So, as far as a greeting going out to a stranger, that stranger had to be me. I smiled, and replied, and offered my own greeting.

Argos Galert

Argos Galert

I had a wonderful conversation with Mcopiate and Kira Gene Evotori as I flew to each of the planets and went about my exploration. Lacking contact with others for long periods of time really causes you to appreciate and cherish those moments when you find you’re not alone. I was encouraged and reminded that my journey was not only about the imaging that I’ve been engaged in, but it was also about my self-discovery. Those long periods of loneliness and self reflection do reach deep within your soul, but so much more is learned about yourself when you connect with others. So, a heart felt thanks and safe skies to Mcopiate and Kira for the conversation and contributions.

Airi Cho

Airi Cho

With one week left to finish my exploration of Empire space, I put out a call to Diplomats of Nullsec in the hopes of getting my standings set to blue. I’ve also had offers of assistance made on making contacts, but so far, the avenues of communication are quiet or non-receptive. I have no expectations that anything will result from that broadcast or that I’ll gain any favorable standings, but one can hope. It would be nice to fly through some friendly space on this leg of my journey, but if not, I’m not worried. It’ll not prevent me from trying. I did, however, receive a reply from Airi Cho, who’s turned out to be a great resource for tips on flying through 0.0 space. I’ll certainly be applying the tips to great use and will share them once I’ve got some first hand experience to go with them. Another heart felt thanks to fellow capsuleers, Argos Galert and Airi Cho.

Well, here’s to my last week of Empire exploration. Fly smart, fly safe.
Katia

Below are some of my favorite images this week from the Derelik Region.

Onsooh I

Onsooh I

Yuzier III, Nefantar Miner Associatino Mining Outpost

Yuzier III, Nefantar Miner Associatino Mining Outpost

Tanoo IV, Trust Partners Trading Post

Tanoo IV, Trust Partners Trading Post

Gomati VIII, Hasateem Gate

Gomati VIII, Hasateem Gate

Chidah V, CONCORD Assembly Plant

Chidah V, CONCORD Assembly Plant

May 26 2014

New Eden Regions: The Forge

Hykkota V, Outuni Gate

Hykkota V, Outuni Gate

Welcome to the start of another series called the “New Eden Regions”. This series I’ll explore each region in New Eden sharing some lore, stats, interesting things to see from EVE Travel, as well as some of my favorite images. I’ll be doing the series in the order that I’ve explored them fully and hope to post one up each month. Comments, suggestions, and other thoughts are always welcome. Especially let me know if you enjoy.

The Forge
Caldari State

For the hard working, corporate state, industrialist, the Caldari, the region called “The Forge” is suitably named. As the name implies, this particular region of space represents the hard working citizens of the Caldari and the home of New Eden’s major market hub, Jita. Here you will find from all over New Eden people of all races, factions, independents, mega-corporations, and yes, even pirates, selling goods and services of everything imaginable. With untold billions of isk trading hands each day the opportunity for profit is just as great as the fortunes that can be lost. Traveling across the cluster can be dangerous, but trading in Jita can leave you with nothing if you’re not careful.

04 New Caldari Prime, Moon 1, Chief Executive Panel & Poksu Mineral Group

New Caldari Prime

Just one jump away from Jita is New Caldari, the Capital of the Caldari State after the Gallente-Caldari war. New Caldari was a nickname until it became official after Caldari Prime was lost. Having already become a major resource hub and location for heavy Caldari industry, it’s no wonder the system was chosen to become the new seat of power for the Caldari State and for the “Big Eight” corporations. Today with its easy access to Jita it certainly makes it a corner stone of Caldari’s industrial might.

Maurasi I

Maurasi I

The home system of my people, the Achura, can also be found in “The Forge” in the Saisio System. The third rock from the sun, Achura, is also the name of our home world. For over three centuries, the Achura have been part of the Caldari State. More than once I’ve been told how true I am to the spirit of my people. I can’t deny my reclusive, introverted personality, nor can I deny my desire to reach a higher spiritual self by finding the hidden treasures across New Eden. The treasures that I seek are not those material things that most seem to find joy in, no, what I search for is knowledge and understanding. Understanding all that there is to know, to see all that there is to see, to find myself in the larger scheme of things. It’s why I’m able to travel across the universe alone with no crew. My choices and my consequences are mine and mine alone.

Mark726 of EVE Travel has done a fantastic job of cataloging sights to see in the cluster. No need for me to duplicate that effort, nor could I achieve the level of quality that he’s put into it. However, I thought it would benefit my fellow explorers to link those sights in The Forge region that he’s explored.

EVE Travel Links

  • Airmia System
    • Grand Crag Watch
    • Station Foundation
  • Friggi System
    • Bandit Outpost
    • Clear Water Spring
    • Sentinel Rise
  • Ihakana System
    • Hangman’s Hill
    • Shady Acres
  • Ishisomo System
    • NOH Recruitment Center
    • Rusty Ridge Mine
  • Jakanerva System
    • In honor of intrepid explorer Marcus Yeon
  • Jita System
    • New Jita Memorial
    • Original Jita Memorial
  • Josameto System
    • Nugoeihuvi Information Center
  • Otitoh System
    • Devil’s Dig Site
    • Diamond Ace Den
  • Otomainen System
    • Foul Creek Ranch
    • Red Rock Outpost
  • Sakkikainen System
    • Frontier Stockade
    • Settler’s Waystation
  • Vahunomi System
    • Abandoned Astro Farm
    • Cactus Mill Lookout
  • Wirashoda System
    • Solari Constructs
06 Eskunen VI, Caldari Construction Warehouse

Eskunen VI, Caldari Construction Warehouse

Kylmabe X, Itamo Gate

Kylmabe X, Itamo Gate

Apr 27 2014

Genesis – In the beginning

“In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth” – Genesis 1-1, Bible, King James version

20.04.yc116 New Eden < EVE Constellation < Genesis

New Eden… For as long as I’ve been sailing the stars, it’s hard to believe that I’m just now arriving where it all began. Not where I’m personally from, Saisio III, but the place where it started for all of us. The New Eden system in the EVE Constellation, Genesis Region. It is believed that our forefathers came through the EVE Gate several millennia ago. It’s unknown what the letters “EVE” mean that are written prominently over the top of the gate. Today, the gate is viewed by the Sisters of EVE as part of their religious belief that God is on the other side and that it is His will that they study it thoroughly.

New Eden I

New Eden I

From here, our ancestors spread rapidly among the stars around AD 7989 to 8061. Then tragedy struck, the once stable wormhole at the New Eden Gate collapsed. The colonies were cut off and our dark ages began. Millions died, colonies were destroyed, and humanity started all over again until we once again claimed the stars as our own today. Yet, we still remain in the dark as to what lies beyond the gate.

I enjoyed my time in the EVE Constellation. There were some interesting sights to see. Sadly, due to the high levels of radiation and the dangers present around the collapsed gate, we are unable to approach it. Regardless, the New Eden system itself is still something to see and something I recommend for every capsuleer to take the time out and visit. Be sure to swing by the Dead End system and see the mysterious monolith while you’re in the area. A quick check with Aura and you’ll learn that – “It’s full of stars.”

Dead End Black Monolith

Black Monolith

Now for that time of the month…. Flight statistics

16 Regions completed for a total of 1,278 systems with no ships or pods losses. I’m 23.5% complete with my plan to visit all High, Low, and Null Sec systems of New Eden.

Fly safe!
Katia

Central Point IV, Gateway Gate

Central Point IV, Gateway Gate

Mar 16 2014
Gallery

Molden Heath Favorites

“I’m lost in paradise.” – “Lost in Paradise”, Evanescence 10.03.yc116 Teonusude < Fittakan Constellation < Molden Heath Time for less talk and more favorite images…  

Mar 9 2014
Video

PLEX Giveaway, Cosmos, and Whatnot

“We are a way for the Cosmos to know itself.” – Carl Sagan

OOC: For those that know me, they know what a huge fan I am of Carl Sagan and the series he hosted, “Cosmos”. I was in high school when it first aired and I was memorized. It was really the first time a scientist of his caliber was able to take such a vast and complex subject and explain it in a way that all could understand. His love for science was only out shown by his desire to share the wonders of the universe with all those that would take the time to listen and learn.

I enjoyed science, having doubled up on it in high school and I loved astronomy, which I took in college, but I never pursued it as a career. Rather, I simply read what I could, watched documentaries, and from time to time, got my telescope out to gaze upon the stars. “Cosmos” sparked my desire to explore, to learn, and to expand my knowledge of the universe not only in an educational way, but also in entertainment. Already a reader of SciFi, my journeys were limited to my own imagination and those of the authors I read. Tabletop roleplaying games took me further and of course, movies and television expanded upon that. But it wasn’t until Eve Online launched, that I felt I was really getting a sense of exploring a far off, dangerous, yet wonderful place, all on my own. So, when folks ask why am I exploring New Eden, one system at time, and not only passing through each star system, but taking a moment to snap images of all the planets, well – blame Carl Sagan.

Tonight, the new “Cosmos” will air simultaneously on 10 different Fox Network channels. The original, of course, is a bit dated now, Carl Sagan has passed on and returned to star stuff, to use his own words. So it remains to be seen if this new series will have the charm that the original did. I plan on watching it with my son, who’s soon to be in high school, and I hope it lives up to my expectations and inspires another generation of explorers.

With that in mind and in honor of my return to Eve Online as well as the new “Cosmos” airing, I updated a video I had done a few years ago. Now maybe you understand why I chose the somewhat dated, maybe campy, yet full of charm narration that I chose. Carl Sagan from “Cosmos” Episode 7: “The Backbone of Night”. I hope you enjoy it.

Now, on to the real reason you’re probably wanting to read this post. Soon I will be passing 1,000 systems explored. I’m currently at 842 systems across 10 regions of New Eden with over 7,000 images in my gallery. When I pass the 1k star systems explored mark, I plan on running a contest and will give away 1 PLEX to the winner. So keep reading and following for details. Good luck!