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{{disline|This article describes various Cylon models and constructs from the [[Battlestar Galactica (RDM)|Re-imagined Series]], ''[[Caprica (series)|Caprica]]'', and ''[[Blood and Chrome]]''. For information on the [[Original Series]]' Cylons, see [[Cylons (TOS)]].}}
:''For information on the [[Original Series]] Cylons, see [[Cylons (TOS)]].''


{{RDM cylons series}}
{{RDM cylons series}}


==Ancient Cylons==
==The original Cylons==
:''Main articles: [[Cylon History#Ancient Cylons|Ancient Cylons]]'', ''[[Final Five]]''
The first Cylons in the Twelve Colonies, created by [[Daniel Graystone]], were robotic, but looked human.
[[File:3x11 Earth Cylon Centurion.JPG|thumb|An ancient Earth "Cylon".]]
{{spoiltext|Graystone's daughter [[Zoe Graystone|Zoe]] died in a suicide bombing. After learning that his daughter uploaded her personality into an online avatar before her death, Graystone decided to recreate Zoe as a robot, using technology stolen from his [[Tauron (RDM)|Tauron]] competitor, [[Tomas Vergis]] with the help of his wife [[Amanda Graystone|Amanda]] and [[Joseph Adama]], whose wife and daughter also died in the same explosion. Zoe-A, the holographic avatar, was downloaded into a robot brain, and thus became Zoe-R, the first cybernetic life-form node, or Cylon. Graystone also created a Cylon version of [[Tamara Adama]], but her father was appalled by it, and decided to repent his actions.}}
Unknown to the Colonials at the time of their creations, Cylon creations were responsible for the annihilation of [[Earth (RDM)|Earth]] some thousands of years prior to the [[Fall of the Colonies]]. Little is known about them, however on Earth, many pieces were preserved that the Colonials were able to study. Here, Cylons existed in organic, humanoid form, and robotic form. Sometime after their arrival on Earth, the humanoids created these machine to serve a variety of roles, but eventually they rebelled, and systematically eliminated the population in a mutually assured destructive attack. It is unknown if any of the robotic forms survived, however, five humanoids would be alerted to the coming holocaust, and would survive using re-created organic memory transfer technology used by their ancestors.


{{Clear}}
==Centurion Model 0005==
[[Image:Cent 005.jpg|thumb|Cylon Centurion during the First Cylon War ([[Razor]])]]
Model Name: Cylon Centurion
:''Main article: [[Cylon Centurion Model 0005]]''
The Centurion Model 0005<ref>This model was included in the miniseries primarily as an homage to the [[Battlestar Galactica (TOS)|Original Series]]. Within the context of the Re-imagined Series, the Model 0005 is over 40 years old, and was the last assumed appearance of the Cylons after the war.</ref>, glimpsed briefly in two scenes of the [[Miniseries]], was apparently the latest Cylon model to have been extensively documented by Colonial authorities after the [[Cylon War]]. It is a primitive model, resembling a short, clumsy humanoid with a single red eye - or as some of the Colonials contemptuously referred to them, "chrome [[toaster]]s". According to [[Saul Tigh]],<ref>From "[[Resistance (episode)|Resistance]]", [http://www.scifi.com/battlestar/episodes/season02/202/deleted1.html deleted scene]</ref> they had a distinctive "stink" of machine oil.


==U-87 Cyber Combat Unit==
These models were apparently the instigators of the Cylon rebellion, or their immediate descendants. They fought in all the major engagements of the Cylon War, including the boardings of ''[[Brenik]]'' and ''[[Galactica]]''. A painting by [[Monclair]] depicts a massive melee between early-model Cylons and joint Aerelon-Caprican ground forces.
:''Main article: [[U-87 Cyber Combat Unit]]''
[[File:CylonPrototype.jpg|thumb|right|The [[Cylon Prototype]] created by [[Daniel Graystone]].]]
The first Cylons of the Twelve Colonies, created by [[Daniel Graystone]], were robotic soldiers with a roughly humanoid design but were not fashioned to look human. Developed by [[Graystone Industries]] for military applications, the project started off on the wrong foot. The first prototype was unable to properly identify and zone in on its targets.  


After his daughter is killed in a terrorist bombing, Daniel learned that Zoe uploaded a digital avatar of herself to the V-World, and decided to try using it to re-create Zoe in robot form. Using [[MCP|stolen technology]], from his competitor [[Tomas Vergis]], he is successful in bringing sentience to his robotic chassis.  
Not only were these models sentient, they were far from emotionless — in his recollection of the ''Brenik'', [[Saul Tigh]] recalls their vicious tactics in hand-to-hand combat: "The first one was Duncan Raverty. I found him in the corridor. His guts were strewn around on the floor. Y'know, at first I couldn't figure out why the Cylons would bother doing something like that [...] You had to look into their red eye-slit. They hated us. They hated us so much it wasn't enough just to kill us" ("[[Scattered]]", deleted scene).


Zoe-A, the [[holographic avatar]], was downloaded into a robot brain and thus became Zoe-R, the first cybernetic life-form node, or Cylon. Graystone also created an online version of Tamara Adama, but her father was appalled by it and decided to repent his actions. However, the avatar became unstable and [[derezzed]], and the U-87 collapsed after only a few short seconds. After sometime, though, the unit wakes up in a lab, and recomposes itself. In a familiar voice, the Cylon finds a phone, and dials out to [[Lacy Rand]]. It is none other than [[Zoe Graystone]]; her avatar somehow surviving the collapse of the data stream earlier.
While remarks by [[Number Six]] in the miniseries state that "those [walking chrome toaster] models are still around. They have their uses," it is most likely that she is referring to the modern Centurions (below), which seem to have replaced the Model 0005 entirely.


This unit is then put into full scale production after gaining approval from the Caprican Minister of Defense {{CAP|Pilot}}.
A relatively small group of this model survives the "upgrade" on the later destroyed [[Guardian basestar]] ([[Razor]]).


{{clear}}
==Modern Centurion==
==Civilian Models==
[[Image:Cento.jpg|thumb|right|Modern Cylon Centurion, evolved from its First Cylon War predecessors.]]
:''Main article: [[Civilian Cylon]]''
:''Main article: [[Cylon Centurion]]''
[[File:Cylon Babysitter.png|thumb|right|A Cylon babysitter tends to a young child.]]
The current mainstay of Cylon ground forces, the modern Centurion is a taller, swifter and more agile unit than the Model 0005. Its "fingers" serve as edged weapons in close-quarters combat, and can retract to make way for projectile weapons built into its forearms.
Sometime after the successful testing and production of the U-87, Graystone Industries produced models for the general civilian population, and business sector. These models were smaller than the U-87, and about the same height as a typical human male. Depending on their use, these models featured different painting schemes on their chassis, and different armor plating.


They are utilized in the working sector as "blue collar" labor, and can be seen working trash collection, and building construction {{CAP|Apotheosis}}.
There are apparently two armor configurations - the Centurions encountered by Lt. [[Karl Agathon]] on occupied [[The Twelve Colonies (RDM)#Caprica|Caprica]] were susceptible to normal small-arms fire, while a boarding party dispatched to ''Galactica'' in a boarding action could only be impeded by explosive rounds ([[Valley of Darkness]]).


Private sector Cylons are capable of typical home maintenance, and chore work. Eventually, the population becomes comfortable enough with the Cylons to even let them babysit their children.
While the earlier Centurion models presumably took a leadership role in their war against the Colonials, modern Centurions appear completely mute and are subservient to the human models. To prevent an uprising of their own, the human models did not design the modern Centurion with any sentience.<ref>Ron Moore, from [http://www.scifi.com/battlestar/blogs/ blog] [http://blog.scifi.com/battlestar/archives/2006/01/#a000114 entries] on January 20th, 2006, confirms "the Centurions are not sentient[,] and their memories/experiences are not downloaded into new bodies when they die." [[William Adama]] notes this to his son in the episode, "[[Exodus, Part I]]."</ref>


At the outbreak of the [[Cylon War]], these models join up with their military counterparts against the human population {{TRS|Blood and Chrome}}. 
==Earth Centurion Models==


{{clear}}
After the combined Human/Cylon Fleet arrives on Earth ([[Sometimes a Great Notion]]), an excavation unearths the remains of several Centurions scattered throughout the planet. Although recognizable as Cylon Centurions they represent a model (or models) not constructed by the Colonial Cylons. They eventually rebel against the early generation humanoid Cylons, starting a nuclear war. They destroyed the humanoid Cylons, most life on the planet, and possibly themselves as well ([[No Exit]]). It is unknown if they were actually called Centurions.
==Cylon War-Era Centurion==
[[File:Cylon War-era Raider cockpit, "Razor".jpg|thumb|Cylon War-era Centurions (including a gold-colored variation) pilot a Raider.]]
:''Main article: [[Cylon War-era Centurion]]''
The Cylon War-era Centurion<ref>This model was included in the miniseries primarily as an homage to the {{TOS|Battlestar Galactica|Original Series}}. Within the context of the Re-imagined Series, the Model 0005 is over 40 years old, and was the last assumed appearance of the Cylons after the war.</ref>, or as some of the Colonials contemptuously referred to them, "chrome [[toaster]]s," was apparently the last Cylon model to have been extensively documented by Colonial authorities after the [[Cylon War]]. It is a primitive model, resembling a short, clumsy humanoid with a single red eye. According to [[Saul Tigh]],<ref>From "[[Resistance (episode)|Resistance]]," [http://www.scifi.com/battlestar/episodes/season02/202/deleted1.html deleted scene]</ref> they had a distinctive "stink" of machine oil.


These Centurions made up a huge part of Cylon forces during the First War, and participated in all major engagements, where they were used as ground troops, or raider pilots. During the War, these models were known to be merciless in their fighting — in his recollection of the ''Brenik'', [[Saul Tigh]] recalls their vicious tactics in hand-to-hand combat: "The first one was Duncan Raverty. I found him in the corridor. His guts were strewn around on the floor. Y'know, at first I couldn't figure out why the Cylons would bother doing something like that [...] You had to look into their red eye-slit. They hated us. They hated us so much it wasn't enough just to kill us" ("[[Scattered]]," deleted scene).
==Cylon Spacecraft==
[[image:SCinside2.jpg|thumb|right|[[Kara Thrace]] cuts her way through the biomechanical muscles of the [[Cylon Raider]] in order to get in ([[You Can't Go Home Again]]).]]
:''Main article: [[Cylon Spacecraft (RDM)]]''
The current model Cylon Raider is an autonomous craft ([[Miniseries]]), apparently capable of operating at fair distance from any command vessel ([[Tigh Me Up, Tigh Me Down]];  [[Final Cut]]). Captain [[Jackson Spencer]], encountering the newer model Cylon Raider for the first time, expresses shock that "nobody's flying these things." Lt. [[Kara Thrace]] later discovers that the Raider she [[Skirmish over the Red Moon|shoots down]] is "alive". She removes most of its organic parts before returning with it to ''Galactica''. [[Sharon Valerii]], a Cylon sleeper agent, guesses that the Raider is a Cylon in its own right, although "more of an animal, maybe, than the human models... like a pet" ([[Six Degrees of Separation]]).


This model's replaced by the modern Centurion sometime after the war, although, a relatively small group of this model survives the "upgrade" on the [[Guardian basestar]] until its destruction by Colonial forces {{TRS|Razor}}. Other 0005 models are still present on [[The Colony]], and help defend it after ''Galactica'' attacks. Those that survive the battle are destroyed when the Colony falls into the black hole that it is orbiting {{TRS|Daybreak, Part II}}.
[[Sharon Agathon|Another Sharon copy]] confirms that Raiders "[[Resurrection (RDM)|download]]" and reincarnate. She echoes the earlier statement about the animal-like nature of Raiders: "A raider's much like a trained animal, with the basic consciousness and survival instinct."


{{clear}}
A [[Basestar (RDM)|basestar]] is also an integrated blend of flesh and machine ([[Kobol's Last Gleaming, Part II]]). The ship is [[Basestar command|commanded by a group of Humanoid Cylons]], and has a living computer, the [[Hybrid]], which is essentially the basestar's brain and takes orders from humanoid models (more on ''Hybrid'' below). Hybrids do not function autonomously.<ref>In both these cases, the distinction between a "Cylon" and their own semi-sentient technology becomes increasingly blurred — interestingly, the same problem that led to the [[Cylon War]] in the first place.</ref>
==Cython==
[[File:Cyborg Critter.png|right|thumb|A dead Cython.]]
Created sometime prior to the tenth year of the First Cylon War, these cybernetic snakes and other Cylon "critters" represent another evolutionary step in the Cylons' ultimate goal of merging human and machine. None have been encountered off the icy planetoid [[Djerba]], where they live among the glacial ice, after carving out a network of tunnels.  


At least two are encountered by the crew of ''[[Wild Weasel]]'', after landing on the planet to rendezvous with a marine special ops team. According to [[Xander Toth]], they are extremely hard to kill without the right weapon. Having been on the planet for sometime, Toth also claims they make for good eating, if the mechanical parts are removed first {{TRS|Blood and Chrome}}.
== Human Models ==
:''Main article: [[Humanoid Cylons]]''
There is an organic humanoid model of Cylon that's almost completely indistinguishable from a human being. [[Final Five|Five]] of these models are actually the descendants of artificial life-forms created by humans on [[Kobol (RDM)|Kobol]] thousands of years ago. The others were created by the Five after the [[Cylon War|First Cylon War]] ([[No Exit]]).  


=== Script Version Details ===
The humanoid Cylons have become the quintessential Cylon form. They quietly and effectively infiltrated the Colonial defense forces, with humanoid models such as [[Number Six]] gaining access to secret military technology, and sleeper agents such as [[Sharon Valerii|Sharon "Boomer" Valerii]] being planted within the [[Colonial Fleet (RDM)|Colonial Fleet]] itself. These sleeper agents are programmed with false memories and appear genuine. Unplanned discovery of their true nature can be extremely disturbing for these units, and their behavior is not always predictable.
The pre-production script for ''[[Blood and Chrome]]'' provides additional detail about these cybernetic creatures. Described as "giant snake-like armored creatures," they are created through Cylon experiments that combine organic tissue with mechanical components.<ref>''[[Blood and Chrome]]'' [{{fullurl:File:B&C Pre-Production Draft - 11-30-10 - Version 01.FDX.pdf|page=70}} pre-production script dated 30 November 2010], pg. 69</ref> The script indicates these creatures were part of broader Cylon efforts to create "cyborg critters: half machine, half organic, and very hard to kill." The creatures possess "slabs of muscle integrated with servos" and demonstrate aggressive behavior when hunting, able to burrow through snow and emerge to attack with surprising speed and ferocity. When killed, they emit a high keening sound that can be heard across significant distances, possibly serving as a form of communication or distress signal to other creatures in the area.<ref>''[[Blood and Chrome]]'' [{{fullurl:File:B&C Pre-Production Draft - 11-30-10 - Version 01.FDX.pdf|page=68}} pre-production script dated 30 November 2010], pg. 67</ref>
==Stealth Centurion==
[[File:Unknown Cylon.png|thumb|right|A stealth-capable Centurion on Djerba.]]


These advanced Centurion models represent a significant evolution in Cylon technology, featuring adaptive camouflage capabilities and enhanced stealth systems. During the mission to [[Djerba]], four of these units attack the ''[[Wild Weasel]]'' crew at a former ski lodge. The models demonstrate sophisticated tactical awareness and coordinated hunting behavior, with some units using automated weapons systems as decoys while others infiltrate the facility's interior.
Only slight chemical differences reveal human from Humanoid Cylon. Humanoid Cylons also apparently differ from humans in two significant ways.
<div style="clear: both;"></div>
[[Image:Sharonspine.jpg|thumb|right|Sharon Valerii conceives a child with [[Karl Agathon]] ([[Six Degrees of Separation]]).]]


One distinctive feature of these Centurions is their ability to change their armor coloration from silver to black, accompanied by specialized visor systems that conceal their characteristic red eye to eliminate detection. They can also extend gun barrels from their arms that assemble from smaller components with minimal sound. According to [[Becca Kelly]], these models are capable of experiencing pain and can be heard "screaming" when damaged, suggesting a more advanced integration of organic components than previous Centurion designs {{TRS|Blood and Chrome}}.
===Reproductive Difficulties===
It was determined to be impossible for two Cylons to reproduce with each other<ref>According to the [[Podcast:Deadlock|podcast for Deadlock]], they were likely able to conceive but unable to carry pregnancies to term.</ref>, and as a result the Cylons begin cross-breeding experiments with humans, which results in the pregnancy of [[Sharon Valerii (Caprica copy)|the Caprica-copy of Sharon Valerii]]. Cylon beliefs attribute this to the love between Valerii and [[Karl Agathon]]. The forceful impregnation of human women however was unsuccessful ([[The Farm]]).


=== Script Version Details ===
[[Saul Tigh]] and [[Caprica-Six]] conceived a fully Cylon child ([[Sine Qua Non]]), but the child was lost soon after [[Ellen Tigh|Ellen's]] return. ([[Deadlock]])
The pre-production script provides extensive detail about these Centurions' stealth capabilities. Their armor features "thousands of tiny facets, like snake scales, flipping over from silver to black" to achieve camouflage.<ref>''[[Blood and Chrome]]'' [{{fullurl:File:B&C Pre-Production Draft - 11-30-10 - Version 01.FDX.pdf|page=82}} pre-production script dated 30 November 2010], pg. 81</ref> When activating stealth mode, "a black visor lowers over its eye slit, hiding the roving red eye, along with the sound of its motion." The script emphasizes their tactical sophistication, describing how they use coordinated attacks and diversionary tactics. One unit scans Kelly's identification tags and hesitates, suggesting advanced recognition protocols or programming that distinguishes between different types of targets. The script also notes their enhanced pain responses, with one making electronic sounds "somewhere between a human sound and a modem" when wounded, indicating a more complex sensory system than standard Centurions.<ref>''[[Blood and Chrome]]'' [{{fullurl:File:B&C Pre-Production Draft - 11-30-10 - Version 01.FDX.pdf|page=84}} pre-production script dated 30 November 2010], pg. 83</ref>


:''Note: This model bears a resemblance to the [[Cylons (SDS)|Singer/DeSanto Centurion]], developed for an attempted continuation series.''
The Cylon tribe inhabiting Earth did not have these difficulties, and each of the Final Five were born to Cylon parents ([[No Exit]]).
==Modern Centurion==
[[File:Cylon Centurion, "The Hub".jpg|thumb|right|Modern Cylon Centurion, evolved from its First Cylon War predecessors.]]
:''Main article: [[Cylon Centurion]]''
The current mainstay of Cylon ground forces, the modern Centurion is a taller, swifter and more agile unit than the Model 0005. Its "fingers" serve as edged weapons in close-quarters combat, and can retract to make way for projectile weapons built into its forearms.


There are apparently two armor configurations - the Centurions encountered by Lt. {{callsign|Karl Agathon}} on occupied [[Caprica (RDM)|Caprica]] were susceptible to normal small-arms fire, while a boarding party dispatched to ''Galactica'' in a boarding action could only be impeded by explosive rounds {{TRS|Valley of Darkness}}.
===Physiology===
[[Image:6spine-ms.jpg|thumb|left|[[Number Six]]'s spine glows during intercourse]]On two occasions, the vertebrae of human-model Cylons have been seen to emit a red glow visible through the skin during sexual intercourse ([[Miniseries]], "[[Six Degrees of Separation]]"). On one occasion, the eye of one of the [[Final Five]] is seen to emit a red glow ("[[He That Believeth In Me]]").


While the earlier Centurion models took a leadership role in their war against the Colonials, modern Centurions appear completely mute and are subservient to the human models. Although Centurions have the potential for sentience by design, they are given an implant that prevents them from exercising full self-awareness, in order to prevent an uprising of their own against their flesh-and-blood masters.<ref>Ron Moore, from [http://www.scifi.com/battlestar/blogs/ blog] [http://blog.scifi.com/battlestar/archives/2006/01/#a000114 entries] on January 20th, 2006, confirms "the Centurions are not sentient[,] and their memories/experiences are not downloaded into new bodies when they die." [[William Adama]] notes this to his son in the episode, "[[Exodus, Part I]]." However, their status as beings with a ''repressed'', rather than absent, sentience was revealed in "[[Six of One]]."</ref>
Other elements of Cylon humanoid physiology are light-sensitive. Tissues within in their forearms function as [[Cylon data port|data links]] which can be crudely interfaced with Colonial fiber-optic networks ([[Flight of the Phoenix]]), but are primarily for accessing the Cylon optical network known as the [[datastream]] ("[[Torn]]", "[[A Measure of Salvation]]").
==Inorganic Humanoids==
:''Main article: [[Zoe-A#The Shape of Things to Come|Zoe Graystone]]
[[File:Zoe reborn, 1x18.jpg|left|thumb|Zoe reborn in her "skinjob" body {{CAP|Apotheosis}}.]]
On at least two occasions, Cylons in the Twelve Colonies are able to approximate human form while maintaining mechanical characteristics.  The first Cylon in the Colonies to achieve this is the virtual reality avatar of Zoe Graystone.  Using Daniel Graystone's knowledge of robotics and advanced surgical techniques from [[Amanda Graystone]], the two are able to build a body that superficially reproduces Zoe's V-world human appearance {{CAP|Apotheosis}}.{{clear}}


==Prototype Humanoid Cylon==
Synthetic compounds unique to Cylon physiology ionize when subjected to [[Wikipedia:Plutonium|plutonium]] radiation, forming the basis of Dr. [[Gaius Baltar|Baltar]]'s [[Cylon detector]].
[[File:Human Cylon.png|thumb|"Are you alive?"]]
During the First Cylon War, the Cylons achieved a significant breakthrough in their development of humanoid models with the creation of at least one prototype that combined biological and mechanical elements. This experimental model represents a crucial step in the evolution toward the fully organic humanoid Cylons that would later infiltrate Colonial society.


Unlike the convincing human appearance achieved by later models, this prototype retained visible mechanical components while successfully integrating exposed muscle tissue, skin, and other biological features onto a robotic framework. Despite its obviously artificial appearance, the model demonstrated sophisticated cognitive abilities and was capable of speech with a perfectly human-like voice, suggesting advanced vocal synthesis or possibly organic vocal cords.
Cylon nervous systems possess [[Silica Pathways|silica pathways]]. A legacy of their evolution from mechanical Cylons, this technology remains in the humanoid models. Silica pathways are susceptible to some forms of radiation, such as the one surrounding the [[Ragnar Anchorage]]. Prolonged exposure to such radiation will gradually take a physical toll on a humanoid Cylon ([[Miniseries]], "[[Bastille Day]]"), and possibly impair the resurrection process. With other forms of radiation, humanoid Cylons possess greater (but not complete) resilience against radiation poisoning than humans ([[The Passage]]).


The prototype encountered Dr. [[Becca Kelly]] at the Cylon communications facility on [[Djerba]], where it engaged her in philosophical discussion about Cylon sentience and human-Cylon relations. Demonstrating both intelligence and a complex understanding of morality, it acknowledged Kelly's relatively enlightened views about Cylons before ultimately killing her, suggesting the model possessed both empathy and ruthless pragmatism {{TRS|Blood and Chrome}}.<blockquote>The prototype is voiced by [[Tricia Helfer]].</blockquote>
<div style="clear: both;"></div>


=== Script Version Details ===
===Known Models===
The pre-production script describes this model as being "poised halfway between machine and human" with a "sleekly beautiful" appearance that was "clearly female, even sleekly beautiful."<ref>''[[Blood and Chrome]]'' [{{fullurl:File:B&C Pre-Production Draft - 11-30-10 - Version 01.FDX.pdf|page=99}} pre-production script dated 30 November 2010], pg. 98</ref> The script emphasizes the model's advanced emotional capabilities, noting that its eyes "look back at her almost sorrowfully" and that it considers Kelly "with a hint of sorrow mixed with something else." This suggests the prototype possessed genuine emotional responses, representing a significant advancement over purely mechanical Cylon models. The scene establishes this model as a bridge between the mechanical Centurions and the later fully organic humanoid Cylons, demonstrating the technological progression that would eventually lead to models indistinguishable from humans.
==Cylon Spacecraft==


=== First Cylon War-Era ===
In the Miniseries, somewhat ambiguous comments by [[Caprica-Six]] and a note left for [[William Adama]] (presumably by [[Gaius Baltar]]) indicate that there were only twelve humanoid models at the time of the [[Fall of the Twelve Colonies]].<ref>Humanoid Cylons are constructs, archetypes of human behavior that are not and never were human, as clarified by [[Ronald D. Moore]] in an [http://www.thefandom.com/Article50.phtml interview] on "The Chase Show", hosted on the SF webcast news site [http://www.thefandom.com/TheFandom.com TheFandom.com].</ref> The final cylon, [[Ellen Tigh]], was revealed as of the episode "[[Sometimes a Great Notion]]". There was once a thirteenth model, Number Seven, but that was destroyed decades ago by the Number One model.
[[image:Retcon Raider The Plan.png|thumb|right|"More of an animal, maybe, than the human models... like a pet."]]
The Cylons have employed various craft over the course of the First [[Cylon War]], and the armistice afterwards.


:''Main articles: [[Basestar (RDM)#Cylon War-era basestars|First War Basestars]], [[Raider (RDM)#Cylon War-era Raider|First War Raider]]''
The Cylons listed in italics are assumed deceased as of "[[Daybreak, Part II]]".
<gallery>
Image:Tighlon.jpg|[[Saul Tigh]]
Image:Ellen Final Cylon.jpg|[[Ellen Tigh]]
Image:Anders_Cylon.jpg|''[[Samuel Anders]]''
Image:Tory Cylon.JPG|''[[Tory Foster]]''
Image:Tyrol Cylon.jpg|[[Galen Tyrol]]
Image:Cavil_closeup.jpg|[[Number One]]
Image:Leoben Headshot.jpg|[[Number Two]]
Image:Number Three Headshot.jpg|[[Number Three]]
Image:Cysim.jpg|[[Number Four]]
Image:Doral.jpg|[[Number Five]]
Image:Six_closeup.jpg|[[Number Six]]
Image:Unknown Cylon.jpg|''[[Number Seven]]''
Image:Eight.jpg|[[Number Eight]]
</gallery>
<div style="clear: both;"></div>
 
===The "[[final five]]"===


Older craft were purely mechanical, and [[Operation Clean Sweep|easily]] [[Battle of Djerba|gave]] the largely unprepared Colonials a run for their [[cubits]]. At this time the Cylons are known to have employed basestars of various design, and Raider support ships capable of carrying a crew of three Centurions. These designs were retired sometime at the end of the War, however, a few raiders from this era survived, and were placed aboard the [[The Colony|Cylon Colony]] after the arrival of the Final Five.  
[[Image:TheFinalFive.JPG|right|thumb|300px|The Final Five, as seen in visions by observers.]]
The existence or knowledge of the [[Final five|five remaining models]] appear to be something of a taboo in Cylon society. When Baltar mentions their absence to Caprica-Six he is told not to talk about them. The identities of these five models appear to be suppressed or missing from the Cylons' collective knowledge base.


==== Script Version Details ====
D'Anna Biers, a Number Three model, believes that the five silhouetted figures she sees in a vision of Kobol's ancient [[Opera House]] while she is in the "space between life and death" prior to [[Resurrection (RDM)|resurrection]] are images of the final five.
The pre-production script for ''[[Blood and Chrome]]'' provides additional information about First War Raider capabilities, describing advanced models that could transform for atmospheric flight. These Raiders were capable of sprouting "ailerons and flaps, transforming from a familiar type of ship into something brand new" when transitioning from space to atmospheric combat.<ref>''[[Blood and Chrome]]'' [{{fullurl:File:B&C Pre-Production Draft - 11-30-10 - Version 01.FDX.pdf|page=61}} pre-production script dated 30 November 2010], pg. 60</ref> This atmospheric adaptation capability allowed them to effectively engage Colonial forces in planetary environments, demonstrating greater versatility than previously understood about First War Cylon spacecraft.


=== Second Cylon War-Era ===
Inside the [[Temple of Five]], D'Anna Biers manages to return to the "space between life and death" and sees the faces of the five and retains her memories of them for the first time. She apologizes to one of the five while she is in their presence. When she returns from her vision, she promptly dies before she can reveal who she saw. Biers's consciousness, along with those of all other Three models, is [[boxing|boxed]] to suppress knowledge of the five, until she is unboxed and subsequently rescued by the alliance of humans and Cylon renegades ("[[Rapture]]", "[[The Hub]]").
:''Main articles: [[Basestar (RDM)#Modern basestar|Modern Basestar]], [[Raider (RDM)#Modern Raider|Modern Raider]], [[Heavy Raider]], [[Cylon Reconnaissance Drone]], [[Cylon freighter (RDM)|Freighter]], [[Resurrection Ship]], [[Resurrection Hub]], [[The Colony]]''


Modern Cylon craft are a mixture of mechanical and organic parts, and with the inclusion of a brain in the raiders, and hybrids in the larger capital ships, they can be considered separate models in their own right. Generally, these modern ships are weaker than their First War counterparts, and can easily be out gunned with as little as two battlestars {{TRS|Resurrection Ship, Part I}}, however Cylon [[resurrection]] allowed them to attack without fear of attrition.
As [[Saul Tigh]], [[Galen Tyrol]], [[Samuel Anders]] and [[Tory Foster]] approached the [[Ionian nebula]], a strange [[The Music|event]] brings them physically together to realize that they are Cylons. [[Ellen Tigh]] was revealed as the final Cylon model in a memory of Saul Tigh's past life ([[Sometimes a Great Notion]]). The Final Five are the only survivors of an entire civilization of humanoid Cylons that once existed on Earth. They are responsible for creating the other eight ([[No Exit]]).


This marriage of mechanical and organic parts allowed most Cylon craft to operate individually of any pilot or controller, especially the smaller raiders. It is not known if the Heavy Raider can operate on it's own, and was never seen to operate on its own. The basestar, Hub, and Colony all were usually under the control of a group of humanoids, who would feed sets of instructions to the ship's hybrid or hybrids. While hybrids rarely function autonomously, one erratic hybrid was seen jumping its baseship on its own will without instruction from any controllers {{TRS|The Hub}}.
===Hybrids===
:''Main articles: [[Hybrid]], [[First Hybrid]]''
[[Image:Hybrid.jpg|thumb|left|A Hybrid speaking "nonsense".]]


While there are many strengths to this, their organic parts proved to be the fleet's undoing. Organic Cylon parts are not immune to sickness, and in one such case, [[Lymphocytic encephalitis|a virus]] picked up from a homing beacon killed an entire basestar, its crew, and raider compliment. This basestar was abandoned by the Cylons for fear of the virus following them through the resurrection process {{TRS|Torn}}. The next knock against their organic parts came after attacking raiders detected the presence of the Final Five in the Colonial fleet. They broke off their attack, and refused further orders as a result. It was ordered that the raiders undergo lobotomies, so they would attack the fleet again, however this action split the Cylon fleet up into civil war {{TRS|Six of One}}.  
In addition to the humanoid Cylons, there is a type that is partly humanoid known as the Hybrids. Not to be confused with the Cylon/human hybrid child [[Hera Agathon]], the Hybrids aboard basestars resemble [[humanoid Cylon]]s, but are another type of Cylon similar to the autonomous bio-mechanical [[Cylon Raider (RDM)|Raiders]]. They are specially constructed living computers that manage the autonomic functions of the basestar. The Hybrids are so integrated into the basestar's functionality that they ''are'', for all practical purposes, the basestar. [[Sharon Agathon|Athena]] claims that development of the Hybrids was abandoned after the version used on modern baseships was created ([[Razor]]).  
==Cylon Hybrids==
:''Main articles: [[Hybrid]], [[First Hybrid]], [[Hybrid Utterances]]''
[[File:FirstHybrid.jpg|thumb|right|"What am I, a man? Or am I a machine? My children believe that I am a god."]]


The Cylon Hybrid is a model that is part machine, part biological, similar to the autonomous bio-mechanical [[Cylon Raider (RDM)|Raiders]]. Not to be confused with the Cylon/human hybrid child [[Hera Agathon]], the Hybrids aboard basestars resemble [[humanoid Cylon]]s, but are another model type constructed to manage the autonomic functions of the ship they are on. The Hybrids are so integrated into the basestar's functionality that they ''are'', for all practical purposes, the basestar.  [[Sharon Agathon|Athena]] claims that development of the Hybrids was abandoned after the version used on modern baseships was created {{TRS|Razor}}.
[[Image:First Hybrid.png|thumb|right|The First Hybrid]]


The [[First Hybrid]] created from the Cylons' experimentation with human beings possesses many of the same traits that the modern Hybrids exhibit, only with a few distinct differences. The First Hybrid, although it possesses the same metaphysical perception as its descendants, is considerably more lucid and speaks in coherent, though slightly ambiguous, sentences. Like the modern Hybrids, the First Hybrid functions as the central computer of its [[Guardian basestar|basestar]], but it also appears to function as the basestar's command and control, given the absence of modern humanoid Cylons aboard. While Athena claims the First Hybrid is an evolutionary dead-end and was abandoned by the Cylons, the Hybrid itself claims that its "children" see it as a god.  The First Hybrid was destroyed along with its basestar in the [[Battle of the Guardian basestar]], and it is currently unknown whether or not it was the only one of its kind.
The [[First Hybrid]] created from the Cylons' experimentation with human beings possesses many of the same traits that the modern Hybrids exhibit, only with a few distinct differences. The First Hybrid, although it possesses the same metaphysical perception as its descendants, is considerably more lucid and speaks in coherent, though slightly ambiguous, sentences. Like the modern Hybrids, the First Hybrid functions as the central computer of its [[Guardian basestar|basestar]], but it also appears to function as the basestar's command and control, given the absence of modern humanoid Cylons aboard. While Athena claims the First Hybrid is an evolutionary dead-end and was abandoned by the Cylons, the Hybrid itself claims that its "children" see it as a god.  The First Hybrid was destroyed along with its basestar in the [[Battle of the Guardian basestar]], and it is currently unknown whether or not it was the only one of its kind.
{{clear}}
<div style="clear: both;"></div>
== Humanoid Cylons ==
:''Main article: [[Humanoid Cylons]]''


The humanoid Cylon is the quintessential form.<ref>Humanoid Cylons are constructs, archetypes of human behavior that are not and never were human, as clarified by [[Ronald D. Moore]] in an [http://www.thefandom.com/Article50.phtml interview] on "The Chase Show," hosted on the SF webcast news site [http://www.thefandom.com/TheFandom.com TheFandom.com].</ref> They quietly and effectively infiltrated the Colonial defense forces, with humanoid models such as Caprica-Six gaining access to secret military technology, and sleeper agents such as Sharon "Boomer" Valerii being planted within the Colonial Fleet itself.
===Organizational Relationships===
Only slight chemical and physiological differences reveal human from Cylon. One of their greatest advantages is the ability to "[[Resurrection (RDM)|download]]" into identical bodies if killed, allowing them to haunt the Colonials in ways never before imagined. 


Humanoid Cylons can be split into two groups, the Significant Seven, which are the seven constructs developed after the First War. And the Final Five, which consist of five humanoid Cylons that are fundamentally different from the Seven. Initially, there were eight models made, however the Number Seven line, the "Daniels," were destroyed by Number One, or "John," after he grew jealous of the attention they were getting from Ellen Tigh {{TRS|No Exit}}.  
The humanoid models, as the most evolved form of Cylon, are in charge of all other models, such as the Centurions, Raiders, and Hybrids. [[Caprica-Six]]'s statement in "[[Downloaded]]" that Cylon culture is based on unity and that celebrities such as herself are something new implies that there is no single leader <ref>Like the [[Imperious Leader]] in the [[Battlestar Galactica (TOS)|Original Series]].</ref>.  


===The Significant Seven===
Instead, each model is equal in terms of power and authority and the Cylons make critical decisions based on consensus, or failing that, majority opinion. This approach to self-governance was taught to them by their creators, the [[Final Five]], and is a hold-over of the ancient Cylon government from [[Earth (RDM)|Earth]] ([[Deadlock]]). One or two representatives from each available model gather and discuss matters in a forum-like environment, then hold a vote on what course of action to take. Each model gets one vote that represents the opinion of every copy of that model. Exceptions to this occur in the episode "[[Precipice]]", when Caprica-Six disagrees with the other Sixes, and in the episode "[[Six of One]]", when [[Sharon Valerii|Boomer]] gives a vote opposed to that of the other Eights. The Centurions, Raiders and the [[Hybrid|baseship Hybrids]] are not permitted a vote in the decision making process ("[[Occupation]]" through "[[A Measure of Salvation]]").
 
These seven were developed sometime after the end of the First Cylon War, after the Cylons of the time made contact with the Final Five. The Five agreed to help develop a humanoid Cylon if the Centurions ended the war against the Colonials.
 
:''Note: Those listed in italics are assumed deceased as of "[[Daybreak, Part II]]".''
<gallery mode="slideshow">
Image:Cavil_closeup.jpg|''[[Number One]]/John Cavil''
Image:Leoben Headshot.jpg|[[Number Two]]/Leoben Conoy
Image:Number Three Headshot.jpg|''[[Number Three]]/D'Anna Biers''
Image:Cysim.jpg|''[[Number Four]]/Simon O'Neill''
Image:Doral.jpg|''[[Number Five]]/Aaron Doral''
Image:Six_closeup.jpg|[[Number Six]]
Image:Eight.jpg|[[Number Eight]]/Sharon
</gallery>
{{clear}}
===The Final Five===
:''Main articles: [[Final Five]], [[Thirteenth Tribe (RDM)| Thirteenth Tribe]], [[Earth_(RDM)#Arrival and Ruins|Earth]]''


The Final Five Cylons are fundamentally different from their Significant Seven counterparts in that they were not artificially constructed, although their ancestors were. They are survivors of the Thirteenth Tribe, born biologically over 2,000 years prior to the onset of the First Cylon War. They worked and lived together on Earth re-creating their ancestors' organic memory transfer technology, after heeding warnings that something was amiss with their robotic creations.  
Though major decisions are made through consensus, the [[Number One]] models see themselves the ''de facto'' leaders and decision makers of their people, continuously making decisions behind the backs of the other models that effect the wellbeing of the Cylon race as a whole. Actions like the murder of the [[Final Five]], their implantation among the civilian population, the murder of the [[Number Seven]] model line and the cover-up of these actions are undertaken entirely by the Ones ([[No Exit]]). When the [[Number Three]] model goes against the collective will of her fellow models and ultimately imposes her will over the rest it is deemed as an act so radical that every Number Three copy is [[boxing|boxed]] for disrupting the unity of the Cylon race. This is merely a pretext used by Number One in order to prevent her from revealing that she had uncovered the identities of the [[Final Five]] ("[[The Eye of Jupiter]]", "[[Rapture]]").


The existence or knowledge of the Five appear to be something of a taboo in Cylon society. In reality, the identities of these five are suppressed by John Cavil, after showing complete disdain for the Five, claiming they contaminated their creations with human weaknesses and Centurion religious ideals.  
Unlike the modern Hybrids, [[First Hybrid|the first Hybrid]] appears to exert independent control over its own [[Guardian basestar|basestar]] and [[Guardians|Cylon Centurions]]. The Hybrid claims that his "children" consider him to be a god. The exact meaning behind this statement is not yet known ([[Razor]]).


:''Note: Those listed in italics are assumed deceased as of "[[Daybreak, Part II]]".''
As of the [[Cylon Civil War]], the race has split into two factions with clear leaders. The first faction is comprised of Twos, Sixes, and Eights was originally led by the Number Six [[Natalie]], later by the last surviving Number Three, D'Anna Biers, and is currently led by a Number Six called [[Sonja]]. The other faction is led by the Number One known as John Cavil and comprised of Ones, Fives, Fours, and a lone Eight: Sharon Valerii. The [[Final Five]] operate among the human military and government as active members of (Colonel [[Saul Tigh]], Ensign [[Samuel Anders]], Cheif [[Galen Tyrol]]) or advisers to ([[Tory Foster]], [[Ellen Tigh]]) the Fleet leadership.
<gallery mode="slideshow">
Image:Tighlon.jpg|[[Saul Tigh]]
Image:Ellen Final Cylon.jpg|[[Ellen Tigh]]
Image:Anders_Cylon.jpg|''[[Samuel Anders]]''
Image:Tory Cylon.JPG|''[[Tory Foster]]''
Image:Tyrol Cylon.jpg|[[Galen Tyrol]]
</gallery>


==References==
==References==
{{reflist}}
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