“Houston, our monopropellant injector is leaking; the fire’s now breached the hull. We have a matter of minutes before complete mechanical failure.” “Gemini, mission control is going to go ahead and recommend an emergency landing.” “Houston, it sounded like you suggested we attempt a crash landing onto a moving commercial spacecraft. Please confirm.” “Gemini, this is a passenger cruise liner, which is an incredibly reliable mode of upmarket transport. We can’t think of a safer place for you to be should anything go wrong during touchdown…” “Roger, Houston. Bracing for impact…”

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