Copyright 2001 - 2020 Star Trek: A Call to Duty

Nova-Class Frigate 

UNITED FEDERATION OF PLANETS:  STARFLEET DIVISION

Advanced Technical Specifications for the Nova-Class Production Vehicle

Accommodation:  80 (15 Officers, 65 Enlisted Crew) Locations of Nova-Class Construction:

Classification:  Frigate [Surveyor] Avondale Production Facility, Rigel II

San Francisco Fleet Yards, Earth
Funding for Nova Class Development Project Provided by: 
Advanced Starship Design Bureau, United Federation of
Current Starship Identification and Registration Numbers: 
Planets Defense Council

Development Project Started:  2363 U.S.S. Perseus NCC-78168

Production Start Date:  2367

Production End Date:  Still in Production

Current Status:  In Service

CONTENTS
1.0  Nova-Class Introduction 8.0  Crew Support Systems
1.1  Mission Objectives 8.1  Medical Systems
1.2  Design Statistics 8.2  Crew Quarters Systems
1.3  General Overview 8.3  Recreational Systems
1.4  Construction History 8.4  Crew Mess

2.0  Command Systems 9.0  Auxiliary Spacecraft Systems

2.1  Main Bridge 9.1  Main Shuttlebay
9.2  Auxiliary Shuttlebay
2.2  Main Engineering 9.3  Shuttlecraft
2.3  Tactical Department 9.4  Waverider Craft

3.0  Tactical Systems 10.0 Nova Class Flight Operations

3.1  Phasers 10.1 Mission Types
3.2  Torpedo Launchers 10.2 Operating Modes
3.3  Deflector Shields 10.3 Landing Mode
10.4 Maintenance
4.0  Computer Systems
4.1  Computer Core 11.0 Emergency Operations
4.2  LCARS 11.1 Emergency Medical Operations
4.3  Security Levels 11.2 Emergency Medical Hologram
4.4  Universal Translator 11.3 Lifeboats
11.4 Rescue and Evac Operations
5.0  Propulsion Systems
5.1  Warp Propulsion System Appendix A - Variant Designations
5.2  Impulse Propulsion System
5.3  Reaction Control System Appendix B - Basic Technical Specifications

6.0  Utilities and Auxiliary Systems Appendix C - Deck Layout

6.1  Navigational Deflector
6.2  Tractor Beam Appendix D - Author's Notes
6.3  Transporter Systems
Appendix E - Credits and Copyright Information
6.4  Communications

7.0  Science and Remote Sensing Systems

7.1  Sensor Systems
7.2  Tactical Sensors
7.3  Stellar Cartography
7.4  Science Labs
7.5  Probes

1.0  NOVA-CLASS INTRODUCTION    

1.1  MISSION OBJECTIVES
Pursuant to Starfleet Exploration Directives 1016.8 & 901.12, Federation Diplomatic Corps Mandate 66.105.b, 66.105.c
& 200.2.2, and Federation Security Council General Policy, the following objectives have been established for a Nova
Class Starship:

1. Provide a platform for extended scientific survey and scouting missions.

2. Replace the Oberth for system and planetary survey missions.
3. Provide autonomous capability for full execution of Federation defensive, cultural, scientific, and explorative
policy in deep space or border territory.
4. Serve as a frontline support vehicle during emergencies and a platform for the extension of Federation
diplomacy and policy.
5. Provide non-critical functions such as transport of personnel and cargo when necessary, extended aid, and
short-range patrol.

1.2  DESIGN STATISTICS    

Length: 180 meters
Width: 43 meters
Height: 34 meters
Weight: 276,948 metric tons
Cargo capacity: 11,750 metric tons

Hull: Duranium-Tritanium composite

Number of Decks: 8 Total

1.3  GENERAL OVERVIEW    

Editor's Note:  History written by Kurt Goring - based on information found in Star Trek: First Contact, Star Trek: Voyager, Star Trek Technical Manual, Star Trek:
The Next Generation Technical Manual, Star Trek: Deep Space 9 Technical Manual, and Star Trek: The Magazine. The style of the history is based on histories
presented in the Star Trek Spaceflight Chronology by Stan Goldstein, Fred Goldstein, and Rick Sternbach.  Please keep in mind that this is a history developed
based on canon information presented in various sources and filled in with logical conjecture.

Sometimes described as the little sister in the new family of Starfleet vessels, the Nova Class Survey Frigate is part of the new breed
of starships in service.

Aggressively designed, the small ship and its lack of amenities manage to surpass one’s first impression of its diminutive size.
Known for its durability, the Nova Class has swiftly loss its status as a ‘little ship’ and is slowly gaining acclaim for their usefulness in
making for more accurate missions to new areas of space, bringing back teraquads of data on individual systems that is
disseminated amongst the fleets.

The Nova sports impressive weaponry for its size, and its scientific capabilities more than make up for its reduction in speed when
compared to its larger ‘cousins’. Double deflector dishes also provide added security when far from a starbase or suitable repair
facility, in that a single malfunctioning or damaged deflector will not prevent the ship from going to warp.

Highly accurate sensors and computer systems makes it the perfect tool to send into scarcely known territory and many discoveries
have been made by Nova Classes finding things larger Explorer-type ships such as the Galaxy Class left behind.

Amenities are few and far between on a Nova, but its work is important and crews that work on these small ships know their worth
and protect their reputations fiercely. Much like the favored Oberth, the Nova is sure to hold a place in Starfleet lore for a long time to
come.

1.4  CONSTRUCTION HISTORY    

The Starfleet Corps of Engineers with the help of the Advanced Starship Design Bureau can do some amazing things
when it comes to the construction of Starships. Many of their designs have outlived their expectations by years, and
sometimes, decades.

In that time, the Oberth has proven itself but the SCE and ASDB were sanctioned to replace it after over a century of
service in Starfleet.

There would be a new vessel built to gradually phase out the Oberth Classes as the primary ship of the line in Survey and
Extended Study missions. This ship would have to be larger, and not display the same limitations in speed and longevity
that the Oberth was famous, if not infamous, for. And like all of the new breed of ships, it would be equipped to defend
itself, unlike the Oberth.

The engineers at the ASDB facility sat down to design this new Surveyor and rejected design after design that paid
homage to the Oberth. Nostalgia was overwhelming, when faced with the concept of replacing a ship that had served for
well over a century. More and more designs were proposed and rejected, until finally someone stumbled on a graveyard of
other, rejected designs.

The Defiant-Pathfinder had been originally designed as a weapon with nacelles, but had been rejected in favor of a more
groundbreaking approach to tactical design. Unbuilt, the ASDB team resurrected the files and preliminary stress sketches
and set to work modifying the Defiant-Pathfinder and shrinking it toward a more usable size. Six torpedo launchers were
removed from the design, and replaced with a more appropriate sensor package. It lost over fifty meters in length and its
proportions were reduced by the same percentage.

Slowly, the ship was coming to shape and final approval was given to begin assembly on a test frame. This new hull was
small and smooth, easily designed and came together quickly. Soon she was dubbed NX-72359 and began her internal
construction.
One of the engineers salvaged more than just the designs, taking a name intended for another class of ships but never
used. Name in hand, the new Nova Class Survey Frigate came into slow creation.  Its initial tests came off without a hitch,
but it was discovered that the ship could only carry a small warp core, and in conjunction with its small nacelles would
only be able to achieve a maximum speed of around Warp 8. The administration approved the ship anyway and field tests
began.

It proved to be a reliable ship, with very few design errors. The limitations in speed were hardly noticed when it carried out
test survey missions inside Sol System, but the engineering crew were mindful of its lack of facilities for long missions. At
best, the ship could operate totally independently for 12 months without visiting a starbase for a major resupply. At worse,
excessive use would force it to return much sooner.

Sleek in design, its hull shape was all but completely retained from its original Defiant-Pathfinder incarnation. The
tactically sound sunken bridge was left in, losing the ability to be changed out with ease, but gaining added protection that
was useful when the ship was faced by just about anything that outgunned it.

Such a thing was difficult, however, as the Nova Class came very well armed due to design considerations that were
evident in its original form. No fewer than nine phaser arrays dotted the ship’s hull, and its long, low profile added to
security. Its shields were neither the strongest nor its engines the most powerful or maneuverable, but the ship passed in
every criterion that mattered and was approved for mass production.

Due to their size, many Nova Class starships could be built, however the need is not there and the Novas are kept at
reasonable rate of approximately 20 new ships a year. Production was temporarily halted during the Dominion War, as the
Nova Class was unsuitable for warfare. However, production has resumed since the cessation of the War and more new
Novas are being constructed.

Though their missions are frequently routine, one Nova Class has already gained some infamous notoriety. The USS
Equinox, NCC-72381 was lost some time ago. Third-hand reports suggest it will never be found.

2.0  COMMAND SYSTEMS    

2.1  MAIN BRIDGE
General Overview: Primary operational control of the Nova Class is provided by the Main Bridge, located in a recessed
area just under the topmost area of the saucer section.

The Main Bridge directly supervises all primary mission operations and coordinates all departmental activities.

The Main Bridge is not an ejectable module.

Layout:  Due to the profile of missions the Nova Class typically undertakes, the bridge aboard this class of ship is
designed for free range and ‘think tank’ style management. Much of what the ship does is interrelated to a significant
amount, and allowing the ship’s top officers to interact freely in a work environment helps the missions to operate at
peak efficiency as a opposed to ships that operate ‘under sail’.

The ship’s commanding and executive officers have chairs at the very center of the circular bridge in a submerged
location. In this manner, the bridge helps the idea that there is ‘work’ being done and the command staff are an integral
part of it, rather than the overseers.

The captain’s chair is starboard side, and the executive officer’s is on the portside. Between them is a console built into
the structure that provides a place for information dissemination, as well as operational command of the starship. On
either side of the command and executive officer’s chairs, are smooth benches, an architectural element that can be
used when necessary by extra officers on the bridge, as well as visitors and other personnel by the permission of the
command staff.

Directly ahead of the command area and down into a further sunken area, is the Conn. This split console is just forward
of the viewscreen and houses enough space to be used in the traditional Conn/Operations arrangement where
necessary. Under most conditions, the entire console is used for Helm/Navigation and Operations is managed by one
of the other stations.

To the port and starboard sides of the command area are the doors on the upper level. The portside doors lead to
turbolifts and the Captain’s Ready Room, with the starboardside door making way to an additional turbolift, as well as
access to the crew head.

Behind the command area is a large array of multi-use consoles that can be configured to run any operation on the
starship. Depending on mission condition, the majority of the consoles will be set to a scientific function. However,
other mission types require a different approach.

When necessary, Tactical is usually assigned to the forward, portside console just right of the main viewscreen.
Though it is not necessary for a tactical officer to see a visual image of its target, they have traditionally been provided
with positions where they can assess the situation both by instrumentation, and their own eyes. Tactical console
configuration usage is extremely limited; only Beta-2 Tactical clearance personnel can use it, and the user must input
special codes to even get access to the massive amounts of computer links that give tactical nearly limitless
information at the Nova Class’ disposal. For full access, the console's security subsystem can run a battery of scans on
the user, including thermal, biological, retinal, and vocal tests. If all of these are passed, full access to the ship's
offensive and defensive systems is made available.

On the opposite side is where Operations is most often handled. Portside, the operations console is under the
command of the Operations Manager, who oversees such important elements of the ship as supply and outfitting,
communications and power distribution.

Directly behind the captain and first officer’s chairs is the Master Systems Display. This dedicated area allows any
officer to get an abstract picture of the ship and any problems that may arise. Its attached console allows certain
situations to be dealt with right in front of the MSD without further intervention.

On either side of the Master Systems Display lie the Science consoles. Typically, the Chief Science Officer mans the
portside console, and the Assistant Science Officer the opposite console. From the science consoles, the officers have
priority access to all sensor input coming into the ship. The science consoles can be used by any personnel and have
access to all science, navigational, sensor, and communications systems.

At the rear, portside console nearest the entrance doors lies the engineering bridge console. Manned at all times, this
console provides an engineer or technician access to all data coming from the ship’s internal monitoring systems as
well as access (where necessary) to repair and adjust various systems throughout the ship.

Directly opposite on the starboard side is the controls for the ship’s biological systems including life support and
environmental control. Additional controls can include monitoring samples brought aboard, and managing biological
tests being performed aboard the Nova Class starship.

There are No escape pods connected to the bridge. Pods are located on all decks below Deck 2. Each pod can support
two people for 72 hours in space, and has a maximum speed of half impulse. Two pods are reserved for the top four
officers in the chain of command on the ship because they are the last four to leave the ship. These are located on
Deck 2. As the number of experienced Captains dwindles in Starfleet, the notion of a Captain going down with his ship
has been abolished. If the ship is abandoned, the top four officers in the chain of command will wait until everyone else
is off the ship, opt to arm the auto-Destruct (not always necessary, but there if needed), and then leave in the two
escape pods.

2.2 MAIN ENGINEERING    

Deck 7 on a Nova Class starship is home to Main Engineering – the heart of the vessel. Main Engineering contains
equipment to manage and maintain nearly every system aboard the ship. Staffed by technicians and engineers, Main
Engineering is the second most essential area of a Nova.

Protected at three points with blast doors for internal and external security reasons, Main Engineering is home to
literally dozens of consoles and control points for the starship’s equipment. The engineering room aboard a Nova is a
very compact but deceptively large environment. Strategically placed consoles provide more than adequate work area
for monitoring the ship as well as the vessel’s warp core.

Its main entrance, on Deck 7, opens into a small corridor with banks of consoles on either side of the ‘hall’ for
technicians to keep tabs on anything from environmental controls to replicator repairs. This corridor opens into a
larger, almost square room filled with more consoles.

In the center of that square is the ship’s warpcore. The Ceries F-Type Matter/Antimatter Reactor Assembly (M/ARA)
covers three decks in height with emergency ejection systems located at the top to loose the warpcore that is then
ejected from the ventral engineering section of the ship in an emergency. Like all modern Engineering rooms, the
Nova’s Engineering Room is equipped with breathing masks and fire suppression equipment in case of accidents.
Additional measures include a 20 centimeter-thick door that can be extended to the ceiling to the floor in case of a
coolant leak inside Main Engineering. Due to the caustic nature of plasma coolant, it must be fully vented before the
computer will allow the doors to be opened.

Access to the top of the M/ARA is provided by a set of catwalks and doors that open on to Deck 6 where further
engineering systems are housed, including Deflector Control. Other accesses include access ladders and Jeffries
tubes spread around Main Engineering, and additional corridors that extend further into the ship.

Aboard a Nova Class starship, Main Engineering is under the supervision of the vessel’s Chief Engineer who has an
office to the rear of Main Engineering.

Typical crew compliment in Main Engineering consists of three engineers and seven technicians of various grades.
During Red or Yellow Alert, that number is increased.

2.3  TACTICAL DEPARTMENT    

This multi-room department is located in a restricted area on Deck 4. Within it are the entrances to the phaser range,
the auxiliary weapon control room and to the Ship's Armory, as well as the office of the Chief of Security.

Security Office: The Chief of Security’s office is decorated to the officer's preference. It contains a work area, a
personal viewscreen, a computer display, and a replicator.

Brig: Located on Deck 4, the Brig is a restricted access area whose only entrance is from within the Security
department. The Nova Class vessel has one double occupancy cell, which contains beds, a retractable table and chairs,
a water dispenser, and sanitary facilities. The cell is secured with a level-10 forcefield emitter built into each doorway.

Internal Forcefields: Controlled from the bridge or from the Security office on Deck 4, forcefields can be activated
throughout the ship, effectively sealing off sections of the hallway from the remainder of the vessel.

Internal Sensors: Used to monitor the internal security of the ship. They can identify the location of specific
crewmembers that are wearing their commbadge. They can be used to determine the general location of any person
on board the ship, based on the entry of specific variables by the Tactical officer.

Ship's Armory: This room is located in a restricted area on Deck 4 and is under constant guard. The room is sealed
with a level 10 forcefield and can only be accessed by personnel with Level-4 or above security clearance granted by
the Command staff or Chief of Security. Inside the armory is a work area for maintenance and repair of phasers as well
as multiple sealed weapon lockers. The Nova Class carries enough type-I and type-II phasers to arm the entire crew.
Type-III phaser rifle and the new compression phaser rifles are available as well, but only in enough numbers to arm
approximately 1/3 of the crew. Heavy ordinance is available in limited numbers.

Armory Inventory includes:

30 Type-I Phasers
60 Type-II Phaser pistols
25 Type-III Phaser rifles
10 Type-IIIc Compression Phaser rifles

Personnel Phasers range in power settings from 1 (Light Stun) to 16 (Atomize).

Torpedo/Probe Magazine: These restricted areas on Deck 4 are for storing unarmed photon torpedoes and warheads,
and science probes I - VI (VII - IX if mission dictates). Also stored here are the components for manufacturing new
photon torpedo as well as the equipment to put it all together. These rooms are also accessed by the loading
mechanism for the torpedo launchers.

3.0  TACTICAL SYSTEMS    

3.1  PHASERS
Phaser Array Arrangement: Dorsal saucer section is covered by four phaser strips; two of which extend from the aft
curvature, along the length of the saucer and stop short of the auxiliary deflector incision. The aft firing arc is covered
by two smaller arrays angled on the rear of the saucer section. The relative bottom of the ship is protected by two
similar arrays as on the Dorsal, extending to the rear of the saucer and following the curve to the aux deflector incision.
Additional protection is provided by a single array that extends laterally across the ventral engineering hull just fore of
the warpcore ejection port. Far aft strips placed laterally on either side of the main shuttlebay on the dorsal engineering
hull cover the rearmost firing arc for a total of nine phaser strips.

Phaser Array Type: Even though the Nova Class is a small vessel, it still utilizes the Type-IX array system. The six arrays
are all Type-IX, the new standard emitter. Each array fires a steady beam of phaser energy, and the forced-focus
emitters discharge the phasers at speeds approaching .986c (which works out to about 182,520 miles per second -
nearly warp one). The phaser array automatically rotates phaser frequency and attempts to lock onto the frequency
and phase of a threat vehicle's shields for shield penetration.

Phaser Array Output: Each phaser array takes its energy directly from the impulse drive and auxiliary fusion generators.
Individually, each Type-IX emitter can only discharge approximately 6.0 MW (megawatts). However, several emitters
(usually two) fire at once in the array during standard firing procedures, resulting in a discharge approximately 12 MW.

Phaser Array Range: Maximum effective range is 300,000 kilometers.

Primary purpose: Defense/Anti-Spacecraft

Secondary purpose: Assault

3.2  TORPEDO LAUNCHERS    

Arrangement: Three standard torpedo launchers. Two fore, and one aft. Torpedo tubes one and two (fore), are located
on either side of the auxiliary deflector just forward of the incision. The tubes are recessed into the ‘prongs’ and can fire
as many as two torpedoes per forward salvo, making a total forward salvo of four torpedoes per firing. Aft coverage is
handled by a third torpedo launcher facing the rear of the ship in the upper engineering hull near where it meets the
saucer.

Type: Type-6, Mark-XXV photon torpedo, capable of pattern firing (sierra, etc.) as well as independent launch.
Independent targeting once launched from the ship, detonation on contact unless otherwise directed by the ship.

Payload: The Nova Class can carry a maximum of 55 torpedo casings with at least 15 of them geared as probe casings
at any one time.

Range: Maximum effective range is 3,500,000 kilometers.

Primary purpose: Assault

Secondary purpose: Anti-Spacecraft

3.3  DEFLECTOR SHIELDS    

Type: Asymmetrical peristaltic subspace graviton field. This type of shield is similar to those of most other Starships,
but rated higher than most vessels of equivalent size as a defensive measure due to it’s role in hosting conferences
and ferrying VIPs. Other than incorporating the now mandatory nutational shift in frequency, the shields alter their
graviton polarity to better deal with more powerful weapons and sophisticated weaponry (including Dominion, Breen,
and Borg systems).

During combat, the shield sends data on what type of weapon is being used on it, and what frequency and phase the
weapon uses. Once the tactical officer analyzes this, the shield can be configured to have the same frequency as the
incoming weapon - but different nutation. This tactic dramatically increases shield efficiency.

Output: There are 11 shield grids on the Nova Class and each one generates 145.5 MW, resulting in total shield strength
of 1,595 MW. The power for the shields is taken directly from the warp engines and impulse fusion generators. If
desired, the shields can be augmented by power from the impulse power plants. The shields can protect against
approximately 42% of the total EM spectrum (whereas a Galaxy Class Starship's shields can only protect against about
23%), made possible by the multi-phase graviton polarity flux technology incorporated into the shields.

Range: The shields, when raised maintain an average range is 30 meters away from the hull.

Primary purpose: Defense from hazardous radiation and space-borne particulates.

Secondary purpose: Defense from enemy threat forces 

4.0  COMPUTER SYSTEMS    

4.1  COMPUTER CORE
Number of computer cores: One. The primary computer core is accessed in the control room on Deck 2. It covers three
decks and extends from Deck 2 to Deck 4. It is fed by two sets of redundant EPS conduits as well as primary power.

Type: The V-109 primary computer assembly is built specifically for the Nova Class starship by Viscosity Computing on
Argos-IV. The structure of the computer is similar to that of most other supercomputing systems in use by Federation
vessels with stack segments extending through the ship forming trillions of trillions of connections through the
processing and storage abilities of modern isolinear chips. Cooling of the isolinear loop is accomplished by a
regenerative liquid helium loop, which has been refit to allow a delayed-venting heat storage unit for "Silent Running.”
For missions, requirements on the computer core rarely exceed 45-50% of total core processing and storage capacity.
The rest of the core is utilized for various scientific, tactical, or intelligence gathering missions - or to backup data in
the event of a damaged core.

4.2  LCARS      

Acronym for Library Computer Access and Retrieval System, the common user interface of 24th century computer
systems, based on verbal and graphically enhanced keyboard/display input and output. The graphical interface adapts
to the task, which is supposed to be performed, allowing for maximum ease-of-use. The Nova Class operates on LCARS
build version 4 to account for increases in processor speed and power, limitations discovered in the field in earlier
versions, and increased security.

4.3  SECURITY LEVELS      

Access to all Starfleet data is highly regulated. A standard set of access levels have been programmed into the computer
cores of all ships in order to stop any undesired access to confidential data.

Security levels are also variable, and task-specific. Certain areas of the ship are restricted to unauthorized personnel,
regardless of security level. Security levels can also be raised, lowered, or revoked by Command personnel.

Security levels in use aboard the Nova Class are:

Level 10 – Captain and Above

Level 9 – First Officer
Level 8 - Commander
Level 7 – Lt. Commander
Level 6 – Lieutenant
Level 5 – Lt. Junior Grade
Level 4 - Ensign
Level 3 – Non-Commissioned Crew
Level 2 – Civilian Personnel
Level 1 – Open Access (Read Only)

Note: Security Levels beyond current rank can and are bestowed where, when and to whom they are necessary.

The main computer grants access based on a battery of checks to the individual user, including face and voice
recognition in conjunction with a vocal code as an added level of security.

4.4  UNIVERSAL TRANSLATOR      

All Starfleet vessels make use of a computer program called a Universal Translator that is employed for communication
among persons who speak different languages. It performs a pattern analysis of an unknown language based on a variety
of criteria to create a translation matrix. The translator is built in the Starfleet badge and small receivers are implanted in
the ear canal.

The Universal Translator matrix aboard Nova Class starships consists of well over 100,000 languages and increases with
every new encounter.

 
5.0  PROPULSION SYSTEMS    
5.1 WARP PROPULSION SYSTEM
Type: F-Type Standard Matter/Anti-Matter Reaction Drive, developed by Ceries Industries. Information on this Warp
Drive can be found in any Starfleet Library or Omnipedia.

Normal Cruising Speed: Warp 6

Cruising Speed as pursuant to Warp Limitations, as a cause of subspace pollution: Warp 6.3

Maximum Speed: Warp 8 for 12 hours

Note:  Vessels equipped with the Ceries F-Type M/ARA Drive System no longer have the maximum cruising speed limit of
Warp 6.3, thanks to innovations discovered and utilized in the M/ARA Warp Drive outfitted in the new Intrepid Class Starship.
Pursuant to Starfleet Command Directive 12856.A, all Starships will receive upgrades to their Warp Drive system to prevent
further pollution of Subspace.

5.2 IMPULSE PROPULSION SYSTEM    

Type: Outfitted with a single T2-16 fusion powered impulse engine, the Nova Class carries more than enough thrust to
maneuver at her fully laden weight. Built by Tallier Propulsion, the T2-16 is lauded for its reliability under extended use,
as well as its fuel efficiency.

Output: The impulse engine can propel the Nova Class at speeds just under .25c, at “Full Impulse” and an upper ceiling
of .75c at three quarters the speed of light. Generally, Starfleet Vessels are restricted to .25c speeds to avoid the more
dramatic time dilation effects of higher relativistic speeds. However, such restrictions can be overridden at the behest
of the ship’s captain.

5.3 REACTION CONTROL SYSTEM    

Type: Standard Version 3 magneto-hydrodynamic gas-fusion thrusters.

Output: Each thruster quad can produce 3.9 million Newtons of exhaust.

6.0  UTILITIES AND AUXILIARY SYSTEMS    

6.1 NAVIGATION DEFLECTOR
A standard Nova Class main deflector dish is located in the  engineering hull, and is located just forward of the primary
engineering spaces. Composed of molybdenum/duranium mesh panels over a tritanium framework (beneath the
Duranium-Tritanium hull), the dish can be manually moved twelve degrees in any direction off the ship's Z-axis. The
main deflector dish's shield and sensor power comes from two graviton polarity generators located on Deck 6, each
capable of generating 128 MW, which can be fed into two 480 millicochrane subspace field distortion generators.

6.2 TRACTOR BEAM    

Type: Multiphase subspace graviton beam, used for direct manipulation of objects from a submicron to a macroscopic
level at any relative bearing to the ship. Each emitter is directly mounted to the primary members of the ship's
framework, to lessen the effects of isopiestic subspace shearing, inertial potential imbalance, and mechanical stress.

Output: Each tractor beam emitter is built around three multiphase 15 MW graviton polarity sources, each feeding two
475-millicochrane subspace field amplifiers. Phase accuracy is within 1.3 arc-seconds per microsecond, which gives
superior interference pattern control. Each emitter can gain extra power from the SIF by means of molybdenum-
jacketed wave-guides. The subspace fields generated around the beam (when the beam is used) can envelop objects
up to 920 meters, lowering the local gravitational constant of the universe for the region inside the field and making the
object much easier to manipulate.

Range: Effective tractor beam range varies with payload mass and desired delta-v (change in relative velocity).
Assuming a nominal 15 m/sec-squared delta-v, the multiphase tractor emitters can be used with a payload
approaching 116,380,000,000 metric tons at less than 2,000 meters. Conversely, the same delta-v can be imparted to
an object massing about one metric ton at ranges approaching 30,000 kilometers.

Primary purpose: Towing or manipulation of objects

Secondary purpose: Tactical/Defensive

6.3 TRANSPORTER SYSTEMS    

Number of Systems: 5

Personnel Transporters: 1

Max Payload Mass: 900kg (1,763 lbs)

Max Range: 40,000 km
Max Beam Up/Out Rate: Approx. 100 persons per hour per Transporter

Cargo Transporters: 1

Max Payload Mass: 800 metric tons. Standard operation is molecular resolution (Non-Lifeform).
Set for quantum (Lifeform) resolution: 1 metric ton
Max Beam Up/Out Rate (Quantum Setting): Approx. 100 persons per hour per Transporter

Emergency Transporters: 2

Max Range: 15,000 km (send only) {range depends on available power}

Max Beam Out Rate: 100 persons per hour per Transporter (300 persons per hour with 4 Emergency Transports)

6.4 COMMUNICATIONS    
Standard Communications Range: 30,000 – 90,000 kilometers
Standard Data Transmission Speed: 18.5 kiloquads per second
Subspace Communications Speed: Warp 9.9997

7.0  SCIENCE AND REMOTE SENSING SYSTEMS    

7.1 SENSOR SYSTEMS
Long range and navigation sensors are located behind the main deflector dish, to avoid sensor "ghosts" and other
detrimental effects consistent with main deflector dish millicochrane static field output. Lateral sensor pallets are
located around the rim of the entire Starship, providing full coverage in all standard scientific fields, but with emphasis
in the following areas:

1. Astronomical phenomena

2. Planetary analysis

3. Remote life-form analysis

 4. EM scanning

5. Passive neutrino scanning

6. Parametric subspace field stress (a scan to search for cloaked ships)

7. Thermal variances

8. Quasi-stellar material
Each sensor pallet (11 in all) can be interchanged and re-calibrated with any other pallet on the ship. Warp Current
sensor: This is an independent subspace graviton field-current scanner, allowing the ship to track ships at high warp by
locking onto the eddy currents from the threat ship's warp field, then follow the currents by using multi-model image
mapping.

The Nova Class starship is equipped with two high-power science sensor pallets in the forward saucer section, ventral
side. The pallets are unplated for ease of upgrade and repair, as well as enhancing sensor acuity.

7.2 TACTICAL SENSORS    

There are 10 independent tactical sensors on the <Ship Name>. Each sensor automatically tracks and locks onto
incoming hostile vessels and reports bearing, aspect, distance, and vulnerability percentage to the tactical station on
the main bridge. Each tactical sensor is approximately 90% efficient against ECM, and can operate fairly well in particle
flux nebulae (which has been hitherto impossible).

7.3 STELLAR CARTOGRAPHY    

One Stellar Cartography Bay is located on Deck 5, with direct EPS power feed from Engineering. All information is
directed to the bridge and can be displayed on any console or the main viewscreen. When under warp or staffed by
demand, the Stellar Cartography Bay is manned by on supervising officer and as many as three subordinates.

7.4 SCIENCE LABS    

There are 16 science labs on the Nova Class starship, four of which are non-specific labs that can be easily modified
for various scientific endeavors including Bio/Chem, and Physics tests and/or experiments – crews rotate often
among these laboratories. Located mostly on Deck 4 with small auxiliaries in other areas of the ship where appropriate,
the Nova Class’ laboratories are well equipped due to the nature of their mission profile. More specific and specialized
laboratories include Atmospheric Physics, as well as the more dangerous High-Energy Physics (note: additional SIF
Field Generators are installed in the bulkheads around this lab).

Additional laboratories include a Botany Lab, where experiments and studies are done on the various phylum found on
the surfaces of planets being surveyed, as well as development of better, more robust terraforming flora for use in
colonization. The Geology Laboratories cover two major areas, Planetary and Astronomical. Though a good portion of
the Nova’s time is spent in-system, other missions may include studying astronomical phenomena and these
laboratories are provided for that purpose. Other laboratories study genetics and Xenobiology.

Spending a year at a time away, the Nova Class’ computer core is one of the few that uses a significant part of its
processing and storage capacity. The data collected is usually offloaded at a starbase where it can be audited and
distributed among the fleets.

7.5 PROBES    
A probe is a device that contains a number of general purpose or mission specific sensors and can be launched from a
starship for closer examination of objects in space.
There are nine different classes of probes, which vary in sensor types, power, and performance ratings. The spacecraft
frame of a probe consists of molded duranium-tritanium and pressure-bonded lufium boronate, with sensor windows
of triple layered transparent aluminum. With a warhead attached, a probe becomes a photon torpedo. The standard
equipment of all nine types of probes are instruments to detect and analyze all normal EM and subspace bands,
organic and inorganic chemical compounds, atmospheric constituents, and mechanical force properties. All nine types
are capable of surviving a powered atmospheric entry, but only three are special designed for aerial maneuvering and
soft landing. These ones can also be used for spatial burying. Many probes can be real-time controlled and piloted
from a starship to investigate an environment dangerous hostile or otherwise inaccessible for an away-team.

The nine standard classes are:

7.5.1 CLASS I SENSOR PROBE:

Range: 2 x 10^5 kilometers

Delta-v limit: 0.5c
Powerplant: Vectored deuterium microfusion propulsion
Sensors: Full EM/Subspace and interstellar chemistry pallet for in-space applications.
Telemetry: 12,500 channels at 12 megawatts. 
 
7.5.2 CLASS II SENSOR PROBE:

Range: 4 x 10^5 kilometers

Delta-v limit: 0.65c
Powerplant: Vectored deuterium microfusion propulsion, extended deuterium fuel supply
Sensors: Same instrumentation as Class I with addition of enhanced long-range particle and field detectors and
imaging system
Telemetry: 15,650 channels at 20 megawatts. 
 
7.5.3 CLASS III PLANETARY PROBE:

Range: 1.2 x 10^6 kilometers

Delta-v limit: 0.65c
Powerplant: Vectored deuterium microfusion propulsion
Sensors: Terrestrial and gas giant sensor pallet with material sample and return capability; onboard chemical analysis
submodule
Telemetry: 13,250 channels at ~15 megawatts.
Additional data: Limited SIF hull reinforcement. Full range of terrestrial soft landing to subsurface penetration
missions; gas giant atmosphere missions survivable to 450 bar pressure. Limited terrestrial loiter time. 
 
7.5.4 CLASS IV STELLAR ENCOUNTER PROBE:

Range: 3.5 x 10^6 kilometers

Delta-v limit: 0.6c
Powerplant: Vectored deuterium microfusion propulsion supplemented with continuum driver coil and extended
deuterium supply
Sensors: Triply redundant stellar fields and particle detectors, stellar atmosphere analysis suite.
Telemetry: 9,780 channels at 65 megawatts.
Additional data: Six ejectable/survivable radiation flux subprobes. Deployable for nonstellar energy phenomena
 
7.5.5 CLASS V MEDIUM-RANGE RECONNAISSANCE PROBE:

Range: 4.3 x 10^10 kilometers

Delta-v limit: Warp 2
Powerplant: Dual-mode matter/antimatter engine; extended duration sublight plus limited duration at warp
Sensors: Extended passive data-gathering and recording systems; full autonomous mission execution and return
system
Telemetry: 6,320 channels at 2.5 megawatts.
Additional data: Planetary atmosphere entry and soft landing capability. Low observatory coatings and hull materials.
Can be modified for tactical applications with addition of custom sensor countermeasure package.
 
7.5.6 CLASS VI COMM RELAY/EMERGENCY BEACON:

Range: 4.3 x 10^10 kilometers

Delta-v limit: 0.8c
Powerplant: Microfusion engine with high-output MHD power tap
Sensors: Standard pallet
Telemetry/Comm: 9,270 channel RF and subspace transceiver operating at 350 megawatts peak radiated power. 360
degree omni antenna coverage, 0.0001 arc-second high-gain antenna pointing resolution.
Additional data: Extended deuterium supply for transceiver power generation and planetary orbit plane changes
 
7.5.7CLASS VII REMOTE CULTURE STUDY PROBE:

Range: 4.5 x 10^8 kilometers

Delta-v limit: Warp 1.5
Powerplant: Dual-mode matter/antimatter engine
Sensors: Passive data gathering system plus subspace transceiver
Telemetry: 1,050 channels at 0.5 megawatts.
Additional data: Applicable to civilizations up to technology level III. Low observability coatings and hull materials.
Maximum loiter time: 3.5 months. Low-impact molecular destruct package tied to antitamper detectors.
 
7.5.8 CLASS VIII MEDIUM-RANGE MULTIMISSION WARP PROBE:

Range: 1.2 x 10^2 light-years

Delta-v limit: Warp 9
Powerplant: Matter/antimatter warp field sustainer engine; duration of 6.5 hours at warp 9; MHD power supply tap for
sensors and subspace transceiver
Sensors: Standard pallet plus mission-specific modules
Telemetry: 4,550 channels at 300 megawatts.
Additional data: Applications vary from galactic particles and fields research to early-warning reconnaissance missions
 
7.5.9 CLASS IX LONG-RANGE MULTIMISSION WARP PROBE:

Range: 7.6 x 10^2 light-years

Delta-v limit: Warp 9
Powerplant: Matter/antimatter warp field sustainer engine; duration of 12 hours at warp 9; extended fuel supply for
warp 8 maximum flight duration of 14 days
Sensors: Standard pallet plus mission-specific modules
Telemetry: 6,500 channels at 230 megawatts.
Additional data: Limited payload capacity; isolinear memory storage of 3,400 kiloquads; fifty-channel transponder
echo. Typical application is emergency-log/message capsule on homing trajectory to nearest starbase or known
Starfleet vessel position

8.0  CREW SUPPORT SYSTEMS    

8.1 MEDICAL SYSTEMS
Sickbay: There is an adequate sickbay facility located on Deck 3, equipped with ICU and Biohazard Support, a
Radiation Treatment Wards that doubles as a Surgical Ward, a ward for Null-Gravity Treatment and  Isolation Suites
There is also a Morgue, and dental care is handled in the main ward. The Chief Medical Officer’s office is attached to
Sickbay, and the main ward contains a load-out of four standard biobeds, with ten more in the main treatment ward,
and a small complement of emergency cots. Pursuant to new Medical Protocols, all Medical Facilities are equipped
with holo-emitters for the emergency usage of the Emergency Medical Hologram System.

Counselor’s Office: The Counselor’s office is also located on Deck 3 to assure a more efficient medical treatment
environment. Though small, the office is nicely decorated and comfortable for the patient. There are no visual sensors
in this office and audio recordings are done only with the voice code of the Counselor.

It has standard furnishings (decorated to the Counselors preference), a personal viewscreen, a computer display, a
replicator, and a washroom/head. It has an individual therapy room furnished with chairs and couch for one-on-one
sessions.

In the event of a crewmember suffering a psychotic episode, and needing to be isolated from the crew, the ill crewman
is kept in sickbay, in the isolation unit, or in the intensive care units, as determined by bed availability.

8.2 CREW QUARTERS SYSTEMS    

General Overview: Due to the small size of the Nova Class, and its internal arrangement of systems and laboratories,
crew accommodations are distributed through every deck of the ship

Individuals assigned to a Nova Class for periods over six months are permitted to reconfigure their quarters within
hardware, volume, and mass limits. Individuals assigned for shorter periods are generally restricted to standard
quarters configuration.

Crew Quarters: Standard Living Quarters are provided for both Starfleet and non-commissioned crew. Aboard a Nova
Class, bringing families aboard is usually discouraged due to the lengthy ‘working’ missions.

Crewmen can request that their living quarters be combined to create a single larger dwelling.

Officers' Quarters: Starfleet personnel from the rank of Ensign up to Lieutenant Commander are given one set of
quarters to themselves (cohabitation is not required).

These accommodations typically include a small bathroom, a bedroom (with standard bed), a living/work area, a food
replicator, an ultrasonic shower, personal holographic viewer, and provisions for pets.

Officers may request that their living quarters be combined to form one large dwelling.
Executive Quarters: The Captain and Executive Officer of the Nova Class both have special, much larger quarters.

These quarters are much more luxurious than any others on the ship, with the exception of the VIP Guest quarters.
Both the Executive Officer's and the Captain's quarters are larger than standard Officers Quarters, and this space
generally has the following accommodations: a bedroom (with a nice, fluffy bed), living/work area, bathroom, food
replicator, ultrasonic shower, old-fashioned water shower, personal holographic viewer, and even provisions for pets.

VIP/Diplomatic Guest Quarters: Though not ideally suited for diplomacy, the Nova Class (like all Starfleet Vessels)
provide accommodations for special guests and visiting personnel aboard the ship. Though not as well appointed as
on most vessels, the Nova’s VIP quarters are more than adequate. 

These quarters are located on Deck 6. These quarters include a bedroom, spacious living/work area, personal
viewscreen, ultrasonic shower, bathtub/water shower, and provisions for pets, a food replicator, and a null-grav
sleeping chamber. These quarters can be immediately converted to class H, K, L, N, and N2 environments.

8.3 RECREATIONAL SYSTEMS    

General Overview: Small ships tend not to be as well equipped as larger vessels in Starfleet. Though all are well attired,
smaller vessels do not come with all the fringe benefits of a large ship, such as a Galaxy or Ambassador Class. The
Nova Class is such a small ship, and what recreational capabilities it does have are taken advantage of on long
missions of up to a year.

Holodecks: There are two holodecks aboard the Nova Class. Located on Deck 3, these Holodecks are proprietary
Federation Technology and can comfortably support up to 10 people at a time.   

Target Range: Test of skill is an important form of recreation in many cultures, and the Nova Class provides a facility
especially for such pursuits. The facility sports self-healing polymer absorptive targets for a variety of projectile and
bladed weapons firing and/or tossing. In the rear of the Target Range facility is a locked area protected by forcefield in
which phased weapons firing is done.

The phaser range is also used by security to train ship's personnel in marksmanship. During training, the holo-emitters
in the phaser range are activated, creating a holographic setting, similar to what a holodeck does. Personnel are
"turned loose;" either independently or in an Away Team formation to explore the setting presented to them, and the
security officer in charge will take notes on the performance of each person as they take cover, return fire, protect each
other, and perform a variety of different scenarios. All personnel on a Nova Class are tested every six months in phaser
marksmanship.

Gym Facilities:  Some degree of physical fitness is a requirement for Starfleet Officers and all starships provide some
sort of facilities to maintain that aboard. Due to the small size of the Nova Class, those facilities are not as spacious as
other vessels. Perhaps a dozen multi-use machines dot the workout area, as well as mats and a special area for
physical training.

An emergency medical kit is located in an easily visible location near the door to the Gym.  

8.4 CREW MESS    

The crew mess hall serves double duty aboard the Nova Class because of its small size. Located in the forward section
of Deck 2, the Mess is equipped with a two mass-use food replicators with an extensive recipe listing from over two
hundred worlds. Eating accommodations are provided by a slew of tables with a small row of molded couches and
chairs that follow the forward curve of the mess hall and face the large viewports on either side of the hall.

The Mess Hall has a battery of recreational games and assorted "stuff.” 3-D chess, octagonal billiards tables, and a
storage center with more eclectic games such as Plak-tow can be found in the mess hall.

9.0  AUXILIARY SPACECRAFT SYSTEMS    

9.1 MAIN SHUTTLEBAY
General Overview: Located in the aft dorsal portion of the engineering section, the Main Shuttlebay is the primary port
for entrance and egress, as well as management of the Nova Class’ auxiliary craft and shuttles. The Main Shuttlebay is
managed by a team of Helmsmen/Pilots, Engineers and Technicians, and Operations personnel that are based on the
Flight Operations office under the supervision of the Flight Control Officer.

The Nova Class Main Shuttlebay is equipped with:

1. Two Type-9 Medium Long-Range Shuttlecraft

2. Ordinance and Fuel
3. Flight Operations

9.2 AUXILIARY SHUTTLEBAY

General Overview: Just forward and up from the Main Shuttlebay is the Nova Class Auxiliary Shuttlebay. Smaller in size
and scope, the Auxiliary Shuttlebay houses the cold-storage facilities for its auxiliary craft, as well as additional
maintenance areas. When not in use, the Auxiliary Shuttlebay is kept locked and only opened for regular maintenance
checks.

The Nova Class Auxiliary Shuttlebay is equipped with:

1. 2 Type-16 Shuttlepods

2. 2 Workbee-type Maintenance Pods.

9.3 SHUTTLECRAFT
9.3.1 TYPE-9 PERSONNEL SHUTTLE

Type:  Medium long-range warp shuttle.

Accommodation:  Two flight crew, two passengers.
Power Plant:  One 400 cochrane warp engine, two 800 millicochrane impulse engines, four RCS thrusters.
Dimensions:  Length, 8.5 m; beam, 4.61 m; height 2.67 m.
Mass:  2.61 metric tones.
Performance:  Warp 6.
Armament:  Two Type-VI phaser emitters.

The Type-9 Personnel Shuttle is a long-range craft capable of traveling at high warp for extended periods of time due to
new advances in variable geometry warp physics.  Making its debut just before the launch of the Intrepid-class, this
shuttle type is ideal for scouting and recon missions, but is well suited to perform many multi-mission tasks.  Equipped
with powerful Type-VI phaser emitters, the shuttle is designed to hold its own ground for a longer period of time. 
Comfortable seating for four and moderate cargo space is still achieved without sacrificing speed and
maneuverability.  As is standard by the 2360’s, the shuttle is equipped with a medium-range transporter and is capable
of traveling through a planet’s atmosphere.  With its ability to travel at high-warp speeds, the Type-9 has been equipped
with a more pronounced deflector dish that houses a compact long-range sensor that further helps it in its role as a
scout.  The Type-9 is now being deployed throughout the fleet and is especially aiding deep-space exploratory ships
with its impressive abilities.

 
9.3.2 TYPE-16 SHUTTLEPOD
Type:  Medium short-range sublight shuttle.
Accommodation:  Two; pilot and system manager.
Power Plant:  Two 750 millicochrane impulse driver engines, four RCS thrusters, four sarium krellide storage cells.
Dimensions:  Length, 4.8 m; beam, 2.4 m; height 1.6 m.
Mass:  1.25 metric tones.
Performance:  Maximum delta-v, 12,250 m/sec.
Armament:  Two Type-IV phaser emitters.

Like the Type-15, the Type-16 Shuttlepod is a two person craft primarily used for short-ranged transportations of
personnel and cargo, as well as for extravehicular inspections of Federation starships, stations and associated
facilities.  Lacking the ability to obtain warp speeds, the Type-16 is a poor candidate for even interplanetary travel, and
is traditionally used as a means of transport between objects only a few kilometers apart.  The craft is capable of
atmospheric flight, allowing for routine flights between orbiting craft or stations and planetside facilities, and its cargo
capacity is slightly higher then that of the Type-15.  Ships of this type are stationed aboard various starship classes
and stations, both spaceborne and planetside.

 
9.3.3 WORK BEE

Type:  Utility craft.

Accommodation:  One operator.
Power Plant:  One microfusion reactor, four RCS thrusters.
Dimensions:  Length, 4.11 m; beam, 1.92 m; height 1.90 m.
Mass:  1.68 metric tones.
Performance:  Maximum delta-v, 4,000 m/sec.
Armament:  None

The Work Bee is a capable stand-alone craft used for inspection of spaceborne hardware, repairs, assembly, and other
activates requiring remote manipulators.  The fully pressurized craft has changed little in design during the past 150
years, although periodic updates to the internal systems are done routinely.  Onboard fuel cells and microfusion
generators can keep the craft operational for 76.4 hours, and the life-support systems can provide breathable air,
drinking water and cooling for the pilot for as long as fifteen hours.  If the pilot is wearing a pressure suit or SEWG, the
craft allows for the operator to exit while conducting operations.  Entrance and exit is provided by the forward window,
which lifts vertically to allow the pilot to come and go.

A pair of robotic manipulator arms is folded beneath the main housing, and allows for work to be done through pilot-
operated controls.  In addition, the Work Bee is capable of handling a cargo attachment that makes it ideal for
transferring cargo around large Starbase and spaceborne construction facilities.  The cargo attachment features
additional microfusion engines for supporting the increased mass.

9.4 WAVERIDER CRAFT

Type:  Nova Class WaveRider Craft
Accommodation:  3 flight crew, 3 passengers
Power Plant:  3 Magnodynamic thrusters (Aft), fusion core, maneuvering thrusters.
Dimensions:  Length: 16.8m; Width: 14.5m; Height: 3.1m
Performance:  Impulse: .25c, Atmospheric: Mach-12
Armament:  2 Type-IV Phaser Arrays.
An auxiliary craft for Nova Class Survey Vessels, the WaveRider-Type atmospheric shuttlecraft is designed to facilitate
close quarters examination and survey of planetary bodies by science personnel aboard the ship.

At just over 20 meters in length, the vessel is small enough to be carried by the Nova Class but large enough to be
useful. Intended to work in atmosphere, the small craft is high fuel efficient at Mach-5 and above, making use of the
conventional propulsion with back up impulse and RCS thrusters for maneuvering in space.

Unlike ordinary shuttlecraft, the WaveRider does not enter the ship’s Main and Auxiliary Shuttlebays; instead, it inserts
itself into a recessed port in the ventral part of the saucer just forward of the main sensor dome. Access to the
WaveRider is provided by a hatchway inside the ship and a ladder-equipped hard umbilical.

It is not warp capable.

10.0  NOVA CLASS FLIGHT OPERATIONS    

Operations aboard a Nova Class starship fall under one of three categories: Flight Operations, Primary Mission
Operations, or Secondary Mission Operations.

Flight Operations are all operations that relate directly to the function of the starship itself, which include power
generation, starship upkeep, environmental systems, and any other system that is maintained and used to keep the
vessel space worthy.

Primary Mission Operations entail all tasks assigned and directed from the Main Bridge, and typically require full
control and discretion over ship navigation and ship's resources.

Secondary Mission operations are those operations that are not under the direct control of the Main Bridge, but do not
impact Primary Mission Operations. Some examples of secondary mission operations include long-range cultural,
diplomatic, or scientific programs run by independent or semi-autonomous groups aboard the starship.

10.1 MISSION TYPES    

Seeking out new worlds and new civilizations is central to all that Starfleet stands for. The Nova Class Survey Vessel
facilitates this, outfitted for long-duration missions over planets and systems, cataloging and monitoring anything and
everything of interest inside a designated area.

Mission for a Nova Class starship may fall into one of the following categories, in order of her strongest capable
mission parameter to her weakest mission parameter.

Ongoing Scientific Investigation:  A Nova Class starship is equipped with scientific laboratories and a wide
variety of sensor probes and sensor arrays, as well as the state-of-the-art dorsal subspace sensor assembly;
giving her the ability to perform a wide variety of ongoing scientific investigations.
Contact with Alien Lifeforms: Pursuant to Starfleet Policy regarding the discovery of new life, facilities aboard
the Nova Class include a variety of exobiology and xenobiological suites, and a small cultural anthropology staff,
allowing for limited deep-space life form study and interaction.
Federation Policy and Diplomacy: A Nova Class starship’s secondary role is the performance of diplomatic
operations on behalf of Starfleet and the United Federation of Planets. These missions may include transport of
Delegates, hosting of negotiations or conferences aboard in the vessel’s Conference Hall, courier for important
people and/or items, and first contact scenarios.
Tactical/Defensive Operations: Though not designed primarily for battle, the Nova Class –like all Starfleet
vessels– is designed to be resilient and ably armed.
Emergency/Search and Rescue: Typical Missions include answering standard Federation emergency beacons,
extraction of Federation or Non-Federation citizens in distress, retrieval of Federation or Non-Federation
spacecraft in distress. Planetary evacuation is not feasible.

10.2 OPERATING MODES    

The normal flight and mission operations of the Nova Class starship are conducted in accordance with a variety of
Starfleet standard operating rules, determined by the current operational state of the starship. These operational states
are determined by the Commanding Officer, although in certain specific cases, the Computer can automatically adjust
to a higher alert status.

The major operating modes are:

Cruise Mode - The normal operating condition of the ship.

Yellow Alert - Designates a ship wide state of increased preparedness for possible crisis situations.
Red Alert - Designates an actual state of emergency in which the ship or crew is endangered, immediately
impending emergencies, or combat situations.
Blue Alert – Mode used aboard ships with planet fall capability when landing mode is initialized.
External Support Mode - State of reduced activity that exists when a ship is docked at a starbase or other
support facility.
Reduced Power Mode  - This protocol is invoked in case of a major failure in spacecraft power generation, in
case of critical fuel shortage, or in the event that a tactical situation requires severe curtailment of onboard
power generation.

During Cruise Mode, the ship’s operations are run on three 8-hour shifts designated Alpha, Beta, and Gamma. Should a
crisis develop, it may revert to a four-shift system of six hours to keep crew fatigue down.

Typical Shift command is as follows:

Alpha Shift – Captain (CO)

Beta Shift – Executive Officer (XO)
Gamma Shift – Rotated amongst Senior Officers

10.3 LANDING MODE    

Nova Class vessels are capable of atmospheric entry and egress with equipment worked into the physical design of the
starship. Each Nova Class vessel is equipped with anti-gravity generators as well as impulse and RCS lifters
strategically placed at the mass and stress points on the bottom portion of the engineering section.

During Blue Alert, the Nova Class lowers the projection sphere of the deflector shields and assumes an angle of attack
perpendicular to the angular rotation of the planetary body if it has an atmosphere. This allows the vessel’s shape to
work as a lifting body with air traveling under the broad and flat saucer and under the wing-like nacelle struts. Once in
the atmosphere, navigation is controlled with RCS thrusters and use of the aft impulse engines.

It is standard procedure to lower the landing gear at approximately 2500m above the Landing Zone (LZ) surface,
regardless of LZ altitude. This minimizes the drag on the vessel. Once prepared for landing, Aft impulse engines are
shut down and four vents on the ventral hull are opened.

These vents cover the ventral impulse thrust plates. Impulse engines in miniature, the thrust plates serve only to
provide lift to the Nova Class as the anti-gravity generators effectively reduce its weight. The RCS thrusters provide final
maneuvering power.

Once on the ground, crew or equipment can be transported to the surface from the vessel, or use the ship’s turbolift
system that connects to channels inside the landing struts themselves, and open out near the ‘feet’.

Take-off is done in reverse.

10.4 MAINTENANCE    
Though much of a modern starship’s systems are automated, they do require regular maintenance and upgrade.
Maintenance is typically the purview of the Engineering, but personnel from certain divisions that are more familiar
with them can also maintain specific systems.

Maintenance of onboard systems is almost constant, and varies in severity. Everything from fixing a stubborn
replicator, to realigning the Dilithium matrix is handled by technicians and engineers on a regular basis. Not all systems
are checked centrally by Main Engineering; to do so would occupy too much computer time by routing every single
process to one location. To alleviate that, systems are compartmentalized by deck and location for checking.
Department heads are expected to run regular diagnostics of their own equipment and report anomalies to Engineering
to be fixed.

Systems Diagnostics
All key operating systems and subsystems aboard the ship have a number of preprogrammed diagnostic software and
procedures for use when actual or potential malfunctions are experienced. These various diagnostic protocols are
generally classified into five different levels, each offering a different degree of crew verification of automated tests.
Which type of diagnostic is used in a given situation will generally depend upon the criticality of a situation, and upon
the amount of time available for the test procedures.

Level 1 Diagnostic - This refers to the most comprehensive type of system diagnostic, which is normally conducted on
ship's systems. Extensive automated diagnostic routines are performed, but a Level 1 diagnostic requires a team of
crew members to physically verify operation of system mechanisms and to system readings, rather than depending on
the automated programs, thereby guarding against possible malfunctions in self-testing hardware and software. Level
1 diagnostics on major systems can take several hours, and in many cases, the subject system must be taken off-line
for all tests to be performed.

Level 2 Diagnostic - This refers to a comprehensive system diagnostic protocol, which, like a Level 1, involves
extensive automated routines, but requires crew verification of fewer operational elements. This yields a somewhat
less reliable system analysis, but is a procedure that can be conducted in less than half the time of the more complex
tests.

Level 3 Diagnostic - This protocol is similar to Level 1 and 2 diagnostics but involves crew verification of only key
mechanics and systems readings. Level 3 diagnostics are intended to be performed in ten minutes or less.

Level 4 Diagnostic - This automated procedure is intended for use whenever trouble is suspected with a given system.
This protocol is similar to Level 5, but involves more sophisticated batteries of automated diagnostics. For most
systems, Level 4 diagnostics can be performed in less than 30 seconds.

Level 5 Diagnostic - This automated procedure is intended for routine use to verify system performance. Level 5
diagnostics, which usually require less than 2.5 seconds, are typically performed on most systems on at least a daily
basis, and are also performed during crisis situations when time and system resources are carefully managed.

11.0  EMERGENCY OPERATIONS    

11.1 EMERGENCY MEDICAL OPERATIONS
Pursuant to Starfleet General Policy and Starfleet Medical Emergency Operations, at least 25% of the officers and crew
of the Nova Class are cross-trained to serve as Emergency Medical Technicians, to serve as triage specialists, medics,
and other emergency medical functions along with non-medical emergency operations in engineering or tactical
departments. This set of policies was established due to the wide variety of emergencies, both medical and otherwise,
that a Federation Starship could respond to on any given mission.

All of the cargo bays and some of the science labs (biological sciences) can be easily converted into emergency
treatment wards. Cargo Bays 1 and 2 also provide additional space for emergency triage centers and recovery
overflow. Portable field emitters can be erected for contagion management.

11.2 EMERGENCY MEDICAL HOLOGRAM

Pursuant to new Medical Protocols, all Medical Facilities are equipped with holo-emitters for the emergency usage of
the Emergency Medical Hologram System. Starships of this type carry the EMH Mark-I, with options to upgrade to new
versions as they become available.

11.3 LIFEBOATS
Pods are located on decks below Deck 1. Each pod can support a total of eighty-six person-days (meaning, one person
can last eighty-six days, two can last for forty-three, etc.). Two pods are reserved for the top four officers in the chain of
command on the ship, because they are the last four to leave the ship. These are located on Deck 2. As the number of
experienced Captains dwindles in Starfleet, the notion of a Captain going down with his ship has been abolished. If the
ship is abandoned, the top four officers in the chain of command will wait until everyone else is off the ship, opt to arm
the auto-Destruct (not always necessary, but there if needed), and then leave in the two escape pods. The current
lifepods are called ASRVs, or autonomous survival and recovery vehicles. The first group of these were delivered in
2337 to the last Renaissance class starship, the USS Hokkaido.

In situations when the base vessel is not near a habitable system, up to four ASRVs may be linked together in a chain
at junction ports to share and extend resources.

11.4 RESCUE AND EVACUATION OPERATIONS

Rescue and Evacuation Operations for a Nova Class starship will fall into one of two categories - abandoning the
starship, or rescue and evacuation from a planetary body or another starship.

Rescue Scenarios

Resources are available for rescue and evacuation to a Nova Class starship include:

The ability to transport 200 persons per hour to the ship via personnel transporters.
The availability of the 2 Type-9 shuttlecraft to be on hot standby for immediate launch, with all additional
shuttlecraft available for launch in an hours notice.  Total transport capabilities of these craft vary due to
differing classifications but an average load of 50 persons can be offloaded per hour from a standard orbit to an
M Class planetary surface.
Capacity to support up to 325 evacuees with conversion of the shuttlebay and cargo bays to emergency living
quarters.
Ability to convert the Mess Hall to an emergency triage and medical center.
Ability to temporarily convert Cargo Bay 1 to type H, K, or L environments, intended for non-humanoid casualties.

Abandon-Ship Scenarios

Resources available for abandon-ship scenarios from a Nova Class starship include:

The ability to transport 300 persons per hour from the ship via personnel and emergency transporters.
The availability of the 2 Type-9 shuttlecraft to be on hot standby for immediate launch, with all additional craft
available for launch in an hours notice.  Total transport capabilities of these craft vary due to differing
classifications but an average load of 75 persons can be offloaded per hour from a standard orbit to an M Class
planetary surface.
Protocols also include the use of Lifeboats. Each Nova Class vessel carries 24 of the 6-person variants, which
measures 5.6 meters tall and 6.2 meters along the edge of the rectangle. Each Lifeboat can survive longer if
they connect together in "Gaggle Mode.”
Environmental Suits are available for evacuation directly into a vacuum. In such a scenario, personnel can
evacuate via airlocks, the flight bay, or through exterior turbolift couplings. Environmental suits are available at
all exterior egress points, along with survival lockers spaced throughout the habitable portions of the starship.
Standard air supply in an EV suit is 4 hours.  

11.5 CORE EJECTION 

Though rare, starships occasionally face the horrible concept of a warp core breech. As the primary power source for a
starship, the explosive power of a warpcore far surpasses the superstructure and structural integrity field strengths
and most often ends in the complete destruction of the starship and anything within a 20km blast radius.

Modern starships have been equipped for this possibility and have the capability to eject their warpcore. The Nova
Class has an ejection port on the forward side of the ventral engineering hull. Magnetic rails inside the channel
accelerate the core once disengaged from the ship and ‘fires’ it as far as 2000 meters away from the ship. The ship
then moves away from the core as fast as possible under impulse power.
Should the core not go critical, the Nova Class can recover its warpcore by use of tractor beams and careful
manipulation.

APPENDIX A - VARIANT DESIGNATIONS    

N-LFFG – Light Fast Frigate

APPENDIX B - BASIC TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS    

ACCOMMODATION
Officers and Crew:  80
Evacuation Limit:  225

DIMENSIONS
Overall Length:  180 meters
Overall Draft:  43 meters
Overall Beam:  34 meters

PERFORMANCE
Full Impulse: .25c
Cruise Speed: Warp 6
Maximum Velocity Warp 8 (12 hours maximum)

ARMAMENT
Standard - 9 Type X phasers, 2 forward photon torpedo launchers, 1 aft torpedo launcher
 

TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT
Shuttlecraft:

2 Type-9 Light Medium-Range Shuttlecraft

2 Type-16 Shuttlepods

2 Workbee-Type Maintenance Pods

Transporters:

One personnel

One cargo

Two emergency

APPENDIX C - DECK LAYOUT    

Legend
(P/S) – Port/Starboard
(#) Number
Ex: (2 - 1 P/S) – “Two <object>, 1 Port and 1 Starboard”
============
 

Deck 1:  Bridge, Captain’s Ready Room, Conference Room, Senior Officer’s Quarters, and Escape Pods

Deck 2:  VIP Quarters, Executive Officer’s Office, Junior Officers Quarters, Observation Lounge, Mess Hall, Transporter
Room, Holodecks 1&2, Aft Ventral Cargo Bay, Storage (5), Main Computer Core, Escape Pods, Primary Impulse Engine
(Amidships), and Impulse Engine Deuterium Surge Tanks

Deck 3:  Sickbay, Primary Sickbay Support Systems (ICU, Biohazard Support, Surgical Ward, Critical Care, Null-Gravity
Treatment, Isolation Suites, etc.), Chief Medical Officer’s Office, Counselor’s Office, Security Office/Brig, Armory, Crew
Quarters, Transporter Room 2, Auxiliary Shuttlebay, Escape Pods, Auxiliary Deflector Control, Torpedo Launching
Systems (P/S) Photon Torpedo Magazine, and Photon Torpedo Loading Mechanism

Deck 4:  Arboretum, Botany Lab, Geology Lab (Planetary), Geology Lab (Astronomical), Planetary Development Lab,
Chief Science Officer’s Office, Crew Quarters, EPS Node Monitoring, SIF Systems, Dorsal Main Phaser Emitters (P/S),
Aft Saucer Phaser Emitters (P/S), Aft Ship Phaser Emitters (P/S), Ventral Main Phaser Emitters (P/S), Ventral Sensor
Dome, and WaveRider Shuttlecraft Docking Port

Deck 5:  Main Shuttlebay, Flight Control, Storage (8), Crew Quarters, Astrophysics Lab, Stellar Cartography, Photon
Torpedo Magazine, and Photon Torpedo Loading Mechanism

Deck 6:  Main Deflector Control, Operations Office, Crew Quarters, Repair Bay, Deuterium Fuel Storage, and Multi-
Purpose Laboratories (3), Cargo Bays (3)

Deck 7:  Crew Quarters, Main Engineering, Dilithium Reaction Chamber, Engineering Lab, Chief Engineer’s Office, Cargo
Transporters, Landing Systems Control, and Landing Systems Maintenance

Deck 8:  Escape Pods, Anti-Matter Storage Pods, Warp Core Ejection Systems, and Anti-Matter Pod Ejection Systems,
Phaser Emitter, and Tractor Beam Systems. Landing Struts (2 – 1P/S) 

APPENDIX D - AUTHOR'S NOTES    

One of the most welcome guest stars in Star Trek: Voyager was the USS Equinox under the command of Captain
Ransom. This small ship, first seen in the Deep Space Nine Technical Manual as the Defiant-Pathfinder, a concept for
what later became the USS Defiant, was recreated to play the role of a small science vessel taken from the Alpha
Quadrant around the same time as Voyager.

Though small, the ship seemed quite capable. Its one obvious drawback was its speed, at only Warp 8, the majority of
Starfleet ships we see are considerably faster than it. Which is fine I guess. When your job is to stop and smell the
roses, a high top-speed isn’t an important consideration. 

Wow, that ship is small!

Yep, she’s tiny! Hardly bigger than its obvious predecessor; the Oberth Class, the Nova is really designed for her job.
She’s a survey ship and pretty much spends most of its time getting into the detail of a planet or system or nebula or
something. Lots of dedicated professionals doing a thankless job.

Does it use Bio-Neural Gelpaks?

Nope. The Nova Class is a little older than the Intrepid and the Intrepid, supposedly, is one of the first ships to field this
new system. So… no gelpaks. 

What happens if they need to hop down to the surface?

Well they can beam down, silly! Or they can use shuttlecraft. But like her apparent sister ship, the Intrepid, the Nova
Class can land. That isn’t apparent in the show I don’t believe, but you can see the landing strut hatches on the hull
pretty clearly. Plus she’s a fairly small ship and shouldn’t have too much trouble landing.

Is there a bunch of them?

Probably. Detailed scans take a long time, even in Trek. They just can’t take one swipe with the sensors and know all
there is to know about a world, and even more study must be done on the ground.
That kind of thing is best handled by a survey ship rather than one of the larger science vessels (though of course they
can do the same things.).

Chances are, there’s a couple of hundred in service, with maybe a hundred or less put out every year. But space is a big
place, and if Starfleet is to catalog it all, they need a lot of ships to cover it. The Nova is best designed for this job.

Awwww… that WaveRider is cute!

I agree. It’s very cute.

Where are the Nova-Class Variant Specs?

Since most of the Nova-Class Variant Specs are the same as the Nova-Class specs, we didn't feel it was necessary to
rehash those specs into another page. Instead, you can find an article on the Nova-Class Variant here. Many thanks to
Mike Yan for writing the article. You can also access the article from the Article page in the menu bar on the left.

APPENDIX E - CREDITS AND COPYRIGHT INFORMATION    

NOVA-CLASS SPECIFICATIONS CREATED BY:  Kurt Goring

SOURCES USED:
1. Star Trek:  The Next Generation Technical Manual - Rick Sternbach and Michael Okuda
2. Star Trek:  Deep Space Nine Technical Manual - Herman Zimmerman, Rick Sternbach and Doug Drexler
3. Star Trek:  First Contact
4. The Art of Star Trek

Copyright 2001 - 2020 Star Trek : A Call to Duty. Use of these specifications is restricted to the Star Trek: A Call to Duty
(ST:ACTD) Technical Specifications domain at http://techspecs.acalltoduty.com and may only be reproduced with the express
permission of the ST:ACTD on sites that clearly serve to provide information on ST:ACTD, its various ships and stations, or
other related topics. Editing the contents of the information present on this page or reformatting the way in which it is
presented is not permitted without the direct permission of ST:ACTD.  Wherever possible, published sources were consulted
to add to the wealth of knowledge in this document, and in some cases, this text was reproduced here.  Sources used are
properly cited in the "Credits and Copyright Information" appendix.  No copyright infringement is intended.