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Coppélia’s fifth and final excursion on the planet was now completed, and she could set off on the long journey back to Earth. She entered the landing shuttle and took a final look at the planet that had been her home for the last 1,174 Earth days. She was looking forward to arriving back on Earth – being able to see her friend again made the twenty-one-year trip worthwhile. She was looking forward to meeting Karen’s children for the first time too. The hatch closed, she strapped herself in and pressed the button to initiate the engine thrusters and take her off the planet.
Nothing happened. She tried again.
Still nothing. She waited a minute or so before trying to ignite the thrusters again.
What’s wrong? Why won’t the engines fire up?
She checked the instruments, paying particula
