Battlestar Wiki - User contributions [en]

Battlestar (TOS)

2011-11-14T22:00:17Z

Star-art: /* Updated Notes on Dimensions */

:''For information on the battlestars of the [[Battlestar Galactica (RDM)|Re-imagined Series]], see [[Galactica type battlestar]] and [[Mercury class battlestar]]. For information on the battlestar seen in the [[2003 Video Game]], see [[Galactica (2003 Video Game)]].''

'''Battlestars''' are warships built in direct response to the [[Thousand Yahren War|generational war]] with the [[Cylons (TOS)|Cylons]].

{{Ship Data
| image= battlestarformation.jpg
| title=Battlestar
| race= Colonial
| type= Military
| ftl= Yes
| propol= 2 x [[FTL]] engines, 2 x sublight engines, 2 x Solium main energizers ([[Fire in Space]])
| crew= 496 - 1,012
| role= Carrier / battleship hybrid
| weapons= 15 x laser batteries, 12 x Solonite air-to-air missiles, 1 x Heavy Mega Pulsar Cannons, 75 Viper fighters, 12 Landram armoured ground vehicles, Six unarmed shuttlecraft {{citation needed}}
| width= (approx): 1,672ft (510m) (flight pod to flight pod)
| height=
| length= (approx): 4,143-4,166ft (1,263-1,255m)
| weight=
| otherdi= Flight Pods<br/>'''Length''' (approx): 1,977ft (603m)<br/>'''Width''' (approx): 351ft (107m)
}}

== Overview ==

The first battlestars were introduced into Colonial forces around 500 [[yahren]] into the [[Thousand Yahren War|war]], and proved formidable when placed against the technically-superior Cylon basestars. Many battlestars were totally destroyed during significant battles.

==Known Battlestars==
The eight battlestars<ref>The Costume Department at New West has indicated that three further battlestars may have been referenced had the show been renewed: the ''[[Solaria]]'', ''Cerberus'' and ''Prometheus''. This information, however, is not [[canon|canonical]].</ref> specifically mentioned in the Original Series are:

* ''[[Acropolis]]'' - mentioned in connection with the attack at Cimtar, and so assumed to be one of the battlestars seen near the moon
* ''[[Atlantia (TOS)|Atlantia]]'' - destroyed by the Cylons at [[Cimtar (TOS)|Cimtar]] ([[Saga of a Star World]])
* ''[[Columbia (TOS)|Columbia]]<ref>Many fans consider ''Columbia'' to be the battlestar class name. However, this is [[fan fiction]]: No substantiated class name has been given by official sources to the battlestars of the Original Series.</ref>'' - destroyed by the Cylons at Cimtar ([[The Gun on Ice Planet Zero, Part I (TOS)|The Gun on Ice Planet Zero]])
* ''[[Galactica (TOS)|Galactica]]''
* ''[[Pacifica]]'' - mentioned in connection with the attack at Cimtar, and so assumed to be one of the battlestars seen near the moon
* ''[[Pegasus (TOS)|Pegasus]]'' - presumed destroyed at the [[Battle of Molecay]] ([[The Living Legend, Part II (TOS)|The Living Legend]])
* ''[[Rycon]]'' - destroyed at the [[Battle of the Cosmara Archipelago (TOS)|Battle of the Cosmara Archipelago]] ([[Take the Celestra]])
* ''[[Triton (TOS)|Triton]]'' - mentioned in connection with the attack at Cimtar, and so assumed to be one of the battlestars seen near the moon

<div style="clear:both;"></div>
==Myth of the Twelve Battlestars (Original Series)==
[[Image:Turrets.JPG|thumb|left|A battlestar's laser batteries fights off Raiders ([[Saga of a Star World]]).]]
Within [[Fan fiction|fan circles]], it has generally been assumed there were twelve original battlestars, given the number of Colonies. This appeared to be supported by ''[[Encyclopedia Galactica]]'', a [[non-canon]]ical publication released in 1979.<ref>{{cite_book|last=Kraus|first=Bruce|authorlink=|authorlinkurl=|coauthors=|year=1979|title=[[Encyclopedia Galactica]]|publisher=|location=|id=|pages=19}}</ref> However, [[Glen A. Larson]] has stated that there was never any decision to have a specific number of battlestars, nor did the Original Series state that only twelve battlestars were built. During the series' run, only eight battlestars are seen or mentioned. Given the length of the [[Thousand-Yahren War]], it seems likely that far more than twelve of these warships were constructed.

''(For contrast, in the [[Battlestar Galactica (RDM)|Re-imagined Series]] continuity, it is stated at the start of the [[Miniseries]] that twelve [[Galactica type battlestar|battlestars]] were initially built during the [[Cylon War]]. However, in the years of and after the Cylon War, an additional 120 battlestars of various classes were built in that continuity. Like its Original Series counterparts, [[Fall of the Twelve Colonies|almost all]] of these battlestars are destroyed in an elaborate Cylon subterfuge.)''
<div style="clear:both;"></div>

== Notes on Dimensions ==

The length and beam figures given here are based on research carried out by [http://ravensbranch.allen.com/galacticasize.html Todd Boyce], a computer animator. There are many differing claims to the actual size of the original battlestars, ranging from some 2,000 feet<ref name="starlog aug 78">{{cite magazine|quotes= |last= Meyers |first= Richard |authorlink= |coauthors= |year= 1978 |month= August |title= Get Ready For... BATTLE STAR "GALACTICA" |magazine=Starlog |volume= |issue= |pages=52-53 |id= |url= |accessdate= }}</ref> (the accepted length in a number of gaming systems) through to 2-3 miles in overall length.

Interviews with series creator [[Glen A. Larson]] and [[John Dykstra]], the Visual Effects supervisor for the [[Battlestar Galactica (TOS)|Original Series]] stated that the original ''[[Galactica#Original Series Galactica|Galactica]]'' was around a mile (1.6km) long. If the scale of the master model used for filming was set at 1/960, then the overall length of ''Galactica'' and her sister ships would be some 6,080ft (1,853m) - or one [[Wikipedia:Nautical Mile|nautical mile]]. However, there is no confirmation available that 1/960 (1 inch = 80ft) was in fact the scale of the model, and the figures have thus been "back engineered" to fit the case. (It should be noted that Dykstra admitted that "[e]verything has to be exaggerated and the fill ratio of the screen has to be higher".<ref name="starlog aug 78"/>)

[[Image:Tos-gal-dim.jpg|left|thumb|Calculating a battlestar's size (credit: Todd Boyce / Universal ABC)]]
In undertaking his work, Boyce utilised an established baseline for his calculations: the full-size mock-up of a Viper built for filming purposes. This mock-up measured some 28.5ft (9m) in length and a wingspan of some 12.5ft (4m), and formed a means by which Boyce could take key shots from various episodes, combine them with a scale model of ''Galactica'' and extrapolate a reasonably-consistent set of measurements. Thus: using film footage alone, Boyce was able to determine the length of ''Galactica'' to be some 4,143ft (1,263m), while use of a scale model produced a figure of some 4,166ft (1,270m): an acceptable difference of some 23ft (7m). What is more, these measurements appear consistent with the overall size of the Viper launch tubes (calculated at some 16ft (5m) in diameter, based on the wingspan of the full-size mock-up and images of Vipers being launched).

Given this degree of similarity in final calculations, these figures have been adopted here as the probable dimensions of the Original Series battlestars. However, in using these figures, it should be noted that:

* Boyce also used a [[Cylon Raider#Original Series Raider|Cylon Raider]] as a benchmark for his calculations, and produced an overall length for ''Galactica'' at between 12,818ft (3,907m) and 21,210ft (6,465m) (2.4 and 4 miles). However, these measurements can be discounted on the grounds that:
** They are initially based on assumed data: a shot of a Cylon Raider apparently "overflying" a Colonial Viper. However, no vertical separation distance between the two can be calculated, leading to a completely arbitrary figure (39ft/12m) for the wingspan of the Raider
** These figures would yield launch tubes between some 50ft (15m) and 82ft (25m) in diameter - which is clearly not supported by film of Viper launches.
* Boyce also used close-up shots of Viper launches to try and calculate the size of ''Galactica'', and arrived at a figure of 2,712ft (827m), with the flight pods measuring 1,294ft (394m). However, these figures cannot be taken at face value, as they would render the Viper launch tubes with a 10.4ft (3m) diameter, making them too small to contain Vipers.

Note: As Boyce used the mock-up Viper he made a fatal assumption of it being exactly in scale with the actual on screen SFX model.
That is unfortunately no the case. The mock-up Viper is smaller and less detailed, hence, cheaper and easier to construct. The difference is (exactly) 10% resulting in a length of 10 m and a wingspan of 4.5-5 m. This brings the Battlestar to about 1400 m.
As BSG was made in light of Star Wars there is the possibility that it's size was intended to be the same as a Stardestoyer (1.5 km).

Note by the researcher: The research page points out that there are proportional differences between the mock-up and the studio model of the Viper, and that the mock-up is used because it had definitive dimensions whereas the filming miniature does not. The studio model is longer in proportion, but it is not necessarily taller or wider (which a second line of research investigated). More definitive research on the matter would need to take place before any claims such as it being "10% larger" could be verified since there are many factors to consider.

Likewise, a Raider overflying a Viper, while not a truly accurate means of measurement, does in fact set the largest dimensions the Raider could possibly be and is therefore useful in the research in demonstrating how the blueprint dimensions did not correspond with the on-screen evidence, at least in that shot. The 39ft measurement is the largest it could be in that shot which is far smaller than the mock-up would indicate. It should also be pointed out that a 39ft wingspan for the raider would yield an approximately 7ft wide cockpit - a bit tight for three Cylon Centurions to fit in.

Ultimately these are not "fatal assumptions" in the research, nor can research be "thrown out" since it is impossible to determine a truly accurate measurement of the ship with multiple valid sources of conflicting evidence. The research page clearly indicates that the reader is to decide for themselves what the results mean, and that like most science fiction shows, the effects are not suited to this kind of scrutiny.

== Updated Notes on Dimensions ==

The one missing piece of information in studies like the one above is the actual diameter of the launch tube openings on the studio miniature. As someone who has spent years studying the filming model, and has designed and helped to build a very precise replica of it that is currently on display at the EMPSFM Science Fiction Museum in Seattle, Washington (see External Links section), I know these openings were 1/4 inch in diameter.

Having drawn the studio miniature in precise detail, including in 3D, I determined that a 27-28 foot Viper fits inside the tubes quite nicely if the studio model scales out to one nautical mile in length. In fact, the tubes scale out to 20 feet in diameter. Anything smaller would clip the wings of the Vipers. Don't forget there are pipes, bulkheads, and other details inside the round tubes that require clearance as well. So, I'm not quite sure how you could work it out if the ship were to be substantially smaller. Also, this value does coincide with John Dykstra's estimate that was quoted in vintage magazine articles of the period.

Charles Adams, ''StarshipBuilder.com''

PS The B&W photo above should be credited to Phil Broad.

== About The Filming Model ==

The ship model for ''Galactica'' was 6 feet in length and weighed 60 pounds. The model was built from various parts from hundreds of cannibalized plastic model kits, such as those from mini-scaled battleships, land vehicles and planes from the [[w:World War II|World War II]] era, to the point that "the crew had the feeling that, if it hadn't been for World War II, ''Galactica'' (the model) would not have been possible".<ref name="starlog aug 78"/>

== Notes ==

* ''According to ''[[Encyclopedia Galactica]]'', a non-canonical piece of merchandise published in 1979:''
: Battlestars are constructed in planetary orbit. Battlestars have a maximum range of 500 light-[[yahren]] before refueling, although this can be affected by high-speed maneuvering and the use of weapons, which are powered by the same fuel source as the engines.

: Battlestars contain eight squadrons of [[Viper (TOS)|Viper]]s, in addition to being armed with "banks of turret-mounted laser cannon, strategically mounted to defend most vital areas of the ship from head-on attack" and "space-to-space torpedoes" capable of destroying larger enemy craft.

: For shielding, battlestars use a "powerful radiation field" capable of deflecting most laser attacks and heavy armor plating to dampen explosive ordnance, like torpedoes or missiles. Furthermore, battlestars are split into segments that can be sealed should the hull be compromised, so the entire ship is not lost.

: For propulsion, battlestars "are powered to sub-light speeds by twin [[solium]] [[energizer]]s that convert matter directly into propulsive force. [[Tylium]] thrusters boost the ship past the [[lightspeed|light barrier]]; on full power, speeds of light times ten have been attained."

: Battlestars are crewed by 500 people and consists of various facilities, "including a 100 bed [[life-station]], a fully equipped [[rejuvenation center]] and a variable-gravity gymnasium".<ref>{{cite_book|last=Kraus|first=Bruce|authorlink=|authorlinkurl=|coauthors=|year=1979|title=[[Encyclopedia Galactica]]|publisher=|location=|id=|pages=19-20}}</ref>

== External Links ==

*[http://www.starbacks.ca/sjpaxton/battlest.html The Lost Battlestars]
*[http://www.starbacks.ca/sjpaxton/battlestars2.html The Battlestar Names and Their Name Sources] by John Larocque
*[http://battlebuck.com/Galactica/Galactica/BigG.html Original studio miniature in hands of private collector]
*[http://customreplicas.com/specialevents.html Precise replica of original studio miniature at Sci-Fi Museum in Seattle WA USA]

==References==
<div style="font-size:85%"><references/></div>

[[Category:A to Z]]
[[Category:Battlestars]]
[[Category:Battlestars (TOS)]]
[[Category:Colonial]]
[[Category:Colonial Craft]]
[[Category:Colonial Craft (TOS)]]
[[Category:Colonial Military]]
[[Category:Colonial Military (TOS)]]
[[Category:Ships]]
[[Category:Ships (TOS)]]
[[Category:TOS]]
{{TOS}}

[[de:Kampfstern (TOS)]]

Battlestar (TOS)

2011-11-13T01:48:31Z

Star-art: /* Notes on Dimensions */

:''For information on the battlestars of the [[Battlestar Galactica (RDM)|Re-imagined Series]], see [[Galactica type battlestar]] and [[Mercury class battlestar]]. For information on the battlestar seen in the [[2003 Video Game]], see [[Galactica (2003 Video Game)]].''

'''Battlestars''' are warships built in direct response to the [[Thousand Yahren War|generational war]] with the [[Cylons (TOS)|Cylons]].

{{Ship Data
| image= battlestarformation.jpg
| title=Battlestar
| race= Colonial
| type= Military
| ftl= Yes
| propol= 2 x [[FTL]] engines, 2 x sublight engines, 2 x Solium main energizers ([[Fire in Space]])
| crew= 496 - 1,012
| role= Carrier / battleship hybrid
| weapons= 15 x laser batteries, 12 x Solonite air-to-air missiles, 1 x Heavy Mega Pulsar Cannons, 75 Viper fighters, 12 Landram armoured ground vehicles, Six unarmed shuttlecraft {{citation needed}}
| width= (approx): 1,672ft (510m) (flight pod to flight pod)
| height=
| length= (approx): 4,143-4,166ft (1,263-1,255m)
| weight=
| otherdi= Flight Pods<br/>'''Length''' (approx): 1,977ft (603m)<br/>'''Width''' (approx): 351ft (107m)
}}

== Overview ==

The first battlestars were introduced into Colonial forces around 500 [[yahren]] into the [[Thousand Yahren War|war]], and proved formidable when placed against the technically-superior Cylon basestars. Many battlestars were totally destroyed during significant battles.

==Known Battlestars==
The eight battlestars<ref>The Costume Department at New West has indicated that three further battlestars may have been referenced had the show been renewed: the ''[[Solaria]]'', ''Cerberus'' and ''Prometheus''. This information, however, is not [[canon|canonical]].</ref> specifically mentioned in the Original Series are:

* ''[[Acropolis]]'' - mentioned in connection with the attack at Cimtar, and so assumed to be one of the battlestars seen near the moon
* ''[[Atlantia (TOS)|Atlantia]]'' - destroyed by the Cylons at [[Cimtar (TOS)|Cimtar]] ([[Saga of a Star World]])
* ''[[Columbia (TOS)|Columbia]]<ref>Many fans consider ''Columbia'' to be the battlestar class name. However, this is [[fan fiction]]: No substantiated class name has been given by official sources to the battlestars of the Original Series.</ref>'' - destroyed by the Cylons at Cimtar ([[The Gun on Ice Planet Zero, Part I (TOS)|The Gun on Ice Planet Zero]])
* ''[[Galactica (TOS)|Galactica]]''
* ''[[Pacifica]]'' - mentioned in connection with the attack at Cimtar, and so assumed to be one of the battlestars seen near the moon
* ''[[Pegasus (TOS)|Pegasus]]'' - presumed destroyed at the [[Battle of Molecay]] ([[The Living Legend, Part II (TOS)|The Living Legend]])
* ''[[Rycon]]'' - destroyed at the [[Battle of the Cosmara Archipelago (TOS)|Battle of the Cosmara Archipelago]] ([[Take the Celestra]])
* ''[[Triton (TOS)|Triton]]'' - mentioned in connection with the attack at Cimtar, and so assumed to be one of the battlestars seen near the moon

<div style="clear:both;"></div>
==Myth of the Twelve Battlestars (Original Series)==
[[Image:Turrets.JPG|thumb|left|A battlestar's laser batteries fights off Raiders ([[Saga of a Star World]]).]]
Within [[Fan fiction|fan circles]], it has generally been assumed there were twelve original battlestars, given the number of Colonies. This appeared to be supported by ''[[Encyclopedia Galactica]]'', a [[non-canon]]ical publication released in 1979.<ref>{{cite_book|last=Kraus|first=Bruce|authorlink=|authorlinkurl=|coauthors=|year=1979|title=[[Encyclopedia Galactica]]|publisher=|location=|id=|pages=19}}</ref> However, [[Glen A. Larson]] has stated that there was never any decision to have a specific number of battlestars, nor did the Original Series state that only twelve battlestars were built. During the series' run, only eight battlestars are seen or mentioned. Given the length of the [[Thousand-Yahren War]], it seems likely that far more than twelve of these warships were constructed.

''(For contrast, in the [[Battlestar Galactica (RDM)|Re-imagined Series]] continuity, it is stated at the start of the [[Miniseries]] that twelve [[Galactica type battlestar|battlestars]] were initially built during the [[Cylon War]]. However, in the years of and after the Cylon War, an additional 120 battlestars of various classes were built in that continuity. Like its Original Series counterparts, [[Fall of the Twelve Colonies|almost all]] of these battlestars are destroyed in an elaborate Cylon subterfuge.)''
<div style="clear:both;"></div>

== Notes on Dimensions ==

The length and beam figures given here are based on research carried out by [http://ravensbranch.allen.com/galacticasize.html Todd Boyce], a computer animator. There are many differing claims to the actual size of the original battlestars, ranging from some 2,000 feet<ref name="starlog aug 78">{{cite magazine|quotes= |last= Meyers |first= Richard |authorlink= |coauthors= |year= 1978 |month= August |title= Get Ready For... BATTLE STAR "GALACTICA" |magazine=Starlog |volume= |issue= |pages=52-53 |id= |url= |accessdate= }}</ref> (the accepted length in a number of gaming systems) through to 2-3 miles in overall length.

Interviews with series creator [[Glen A. Larson]] and [[John Dykstra]], the Visual Effects supervisor for the [[Battlestar Galactica (TOS)|Original Series]] stated that the original ''[[Galactica#Original Series Galactica|Galactica]]'' was around a mile (1.6km) long. If the scale of the master model used for filming was set at 1/960, then the overall length of ''Galactica'' and her sister ships would be some 6,080ft (1,853m) - or one [[Wikipedia:Nautical Mile|nautical mile]]. However, there is no confirmation available that 1/960 (1 inch = 80ft) was in fact the scale of the model, and the figures have thus been "back engineered" to fit the case. (It should be noted that Dykstra admitted that "[e]verything has to be exaggerated and the fill ratio of the screen has to be higher".<ref name="starlog aug 78"/>)

[[Image:Tos-gal-dim.jpg|left|thumb|Calculating a battlestar's size (credit: Todd Boyce / Universal ABC)]]
In undertaking his work, Boyce utilised an established baseline for his calculations: the full-size mock-up of a Viper built for filming purposes. This mock-up measured some 28.5ft (9m) in length and a wingspan of some 12.5ft (4m), and formed a means by which Boyce could take key shots from various episodes, combine them with a scale model of ''Galactica'' and extrapolate a reasonably-consistent set of measurements. Thus: using film footage alone, Boyce was able to determine the length of ''Galactica'' to be some 4,143ft (1,263m), while use of a scale model produced a figure of some 4,166ft (1,270m): an acceptable difference of some 23ft (7m). What is more, these measurements appear consistent with the overall size of the Viper launch tubes (calculated at some 16ft (5m) in diameter, based on the wingspan of the full-size mock-up and images of Vipers being launched).

Given this degree of similarity in final calculations, these figures have been adopted here as the probable dimensions of the Original Series battlestars. However, in using these figures, it should be noted that:

* Boyce also used a [[Cylon Raider#Original Series Raider|Cylon Raider]] as a benchmark for his calculations, and produced an overall length for ''Galactica'' at between 12,818ft (3,907m) and 21,210ft (6,465m) (2.4 and 4 miles). However, these measurements can be discounted on the grounds that:
** They are initially based on assumed data: a shot of a Cylon Raider apparently "overflying" a Colonial Viper. However, no vertical separation distance between the two can be calculated, leading to a completely arbitrary figure (39ft/12m) for the wingspan of the Raider
** These figures would yield launch tubes between some 50ft (15m) and 82ft (25m) in diameter - which is clearly not supported by film of Viper launches.
* Boyce also used close-up shots of Viper launches to try and calculate the size of ''Galactica'', and arrived at a figure of 2,712ft (827m), with the flight pods measuring 1,294ft (394m). However, these figures cannot be taken at face value, as they would render the Viper launch tubes with a 10.4ft (3m) diameter, making them too small to contain Vipers.

Note: As Boyce used the mock-up Viper he made a fatal assumption of it being exactly in scale with the actual on screen SFX model.
That is unfortunately no the case. The mock-up Viper is smaller and less detailed, hence, cheaper and easier to construct. The difference is (exactly) 10% resulting in a length of 10 m and a wingspan of 4.5-5 m. This brings the Battlestar to about 1400 m.
As BSG was made in light of Star Wars there is the possibility that it's size was intended to be the same as a Stardestoyer (1.5 km).

Note by the researcher: The research page points out that there are proportional differences between the mock-up and the studio model of the Viper, and that the mock-up is used because it had definitive dimensions whereas the filming miniature does not. The studio model is longer in proportion, but it is not necessarily taller or wider (which a second line of research investigated). More definitive research on the matter would need to take place before any claims such as it being "10% larger" could be verified since there are many factors to consider.

Likewise, a Raider overflying a Viper, while not a truly accurate means of measurement, does in fact set the largest dimensions the Raider could possibly be and is therefore useful in the research in demonstrating how the blueprint dimensions did not correspond with the on-screen evidence, at least in that shot. The 39ft measurement is the largest it could be in that shot which is far smaller than the mock-up would indicate. It should also be pointed out that a 39ft wingspan for the raider would yield an approximately 7ft wide cockpit - a bit tight for three Cylon Centurions to fit in.

Ultimately these are not "fatal assumptions" in the research, nor can research be "thrown out" since it is impossible to determine a truly accurate measurement of the ship with multiple valid sources of conflicting evidence. The research page clearly indicates that the reader is to decide for themselves what the results mean, and that like most science fiction shows, the effects are not suited to this kind of scrutiny.

== Updated Notes on Dimensions ==

The one missing piece of information in studies like the one above is the actual diameter of the launch tube openings on the studio miniature. As someone who has spent years studying the filming model, and has designed and helped to build a very precise replica of it that is currently on display at the EMPSFM Science Fiction Museum in Seattle, Washington (see External Links section), I know these openings were 1/4 inch in diameter.

Having drawn the studio miniature in precise detail, including in 3D, I determined that a 27-28 foot Viper fits inside the tubes quite nicely if the studio model scales out to one nautical mile in length. I'm not quite sure how you could work it out the same way if the ship were to be substantially smaller. And, this value does coincide with John Dykstra's estimate that was quoted in vintage magazine articles of the period.

Charles Adams, ''StarshipBuilder.com''

PS The photo above should be credited to Phil Broad.

== About The Filming Model ==

The ship model for ''Galactica'' was 6 feet in length and weighed 60 pounds. The model was built from various parts from hundreds of cannibalized plastic model kits, such as those from mini-scaled battleships, land vehicles and planes from the [[w:World War II|World War II]] era, to the point that "the crew had the feeling that, if it hadn't been for World War II, ''Galactica'' (the model) would not have been possible".<ref name="starlog aug 78"/>

== Notes ==

* ''According to ''[[Encyclopedia Galactica]]'', a non-canonical piece of merchandise published in 1979:''
: Battlestars are constructed in planetary orbit. Battlestars have a maximum range of 500 light-[[yahren]] before refueling, although this can be affected by high-speed maneuvering and the use of weapons, which are powered by the same fuel source as the engines.

: Battlestars contain eight squadrons of [[Viper (TOS)|Viper]]s, in addition to being armed with "banks of turret-mounted laser cannon, strategically mounted to defend most vital areas of the ship from head-on attack" and "space-to-space torpedoes" capable of destroying larger enemy craft.

: For shielding, battlestars use a "powerful radiation field" capable of deflecting most laser attacks and heavy armor plating to dampen explosive ordnance, like torpedoes or missiles. Furthermore, battlestars are split into segments that can be sealed should the hull be compromised, so the entire ship is not lost.

: For propulsion, battlestars "are powered to sub-light speeds by twin [[solium]] [[energizer]]s that convert matter directly into propulsive force. [[Tylium]] thrusters boost the ship past the [[lightspeed|light barrier]]; on full power, speeds of light times ten have been attained."

: Battlestars are crewed by 500 people and consists of various facilities, "including a 100 bed [[life-station]], a fully equipped [[rejuvenation center]] and a variable-gravity gymnasium".<ref>{{cite_book|last=Kraus|first=Bruce|authorlink=|authorlinkurl=|coauthors=|year=1979|title=[[Encyclopedia Galactica]]|publisher=|location=|id=|pages=19-20}}</ref>

== External Links ==

*[http://www.starbacks.ca/sjpaxton/battlest.html The Lost Battlestars]
*[http://www.starbacks.ca/sjpaxton/battlestars2.html The Battlestar Names and Their Name Sources] by John Larocque
*[http://battlebuck.com/Galactica/Galactica/BigG.html Original studio miniature in hands of private collector]
*[http://customreplicas.com/specialevents.html Precise replica of original studio miniature at Sci-Fi Museum in Seattle WA USA]

==References==
<div style="font-size:85%"><references/></div>

[[Category:A to Z]]
[[Category:Battlestars]]
[[Category:Battlestars (TOS)]]
[[Category:Colonial]]
[[Category:Colonial Craft]]
[[Category:Colonial Craft (TOS)]]
[[Category:Colonial Military]]
[[Category:Colonial Military (TOS)]]
[[Category:Ships]]
[[Category:Ships (TOS)]]
[[Category:TOS]]
{{TOS}}

[[de:Kampfstern (TOS)]]

Battlestar (TOS)

2011-11-12T20:37:46Z

Star-art: /* External Links */

:''For information on the battlestars of the [[Battlestar Galactica (RDM)|Re-imagined Series]], see [[Galactica type battlestar]] and [[Mercury class battlestar]]. For information on the battlestar seen in the [[2003 Video Game]], see [[Galactica (2003 Video Game)]].''

'''Battlestars''' are warships built in direct response to the [[Thousand Yahren War|generational war]] with the [[Cylons (TOS)|Cylons]].

{{Ship Data
| image= battlestarformation.jpg
| title=Battlestar
| race= Colonial
| type= Military
| ftl= Yes
| propol= 2 x [[FTL]] engines, 2 x sublight engines, 2 x Solium main energizers ([[Fire in Space]])
| crew= 496 - 1,012
| role= Carrier / battleship hybrid
| weapons= 15 x laser batteries, 12 x Solonite air-to-air missiles, 1 x Heavy Mega Pulsar Cannons, 75 Viper fighters, 12 Landram armoured ground vehicles, Six unarmed shuttlecraft {{citation needed}}
| width= (approx): 1,672ft (510m) (flight pod to flight pod)
| height=
| length= (approx): 4,143-4,166ft (1,263-1,255m)
| weight=
| otherdi= Flight Pods<br/>'''Length''' (approx): 1,977ft (603m)<br/>'''Width''' (approx): 351ft (107m)
}}

== Overview ==

The first battlestars were introduced into Colonial forces around 500 [[yahren]] into the [[Thousand Yahren War|war]], and proved formidable when placed against the technically-superior Cylon basestars. Many battlestars were totally destroyed during significant battles.

==Known Battlestars==
The eight battlestars<ref>The Costume Department at New West has indicated that three further battlestars may have been referenced had the show been renewed: the ''[[Solaria]]'', ''Cerberus'' and ''Prometheus''. This information, however, is not [[canon|canonical]].</ref> specifically mentioned in the Original Series are:

* ''[[Acropolis]]'' - mentioned in connection with the attack at Cimtar, and so assumed to be one of the battlestars seen near the moon
* ''[[Atlantia (TOS)|Atlantia]]'' - destroyed by the Cylons at [[Cimtar (TOS)|Cimtar]] ([[Saga of a Star World]])
* ''[[Columbia (TOS)|Columbia]]<ref>Many fans consider ''Columbia'' to be the battlestar class name. However, this is [[fan fiction]]: No substantiated class name has been given by official sources to the battlestars of the Original Series.</ref>'' - destroyed by the Cylons at Cimtar ([[The Gun on Ice Planet Zero, Part I (TOS)|The Gun on Ice Planet Zero]])
* ''[[Galactica (TOS)|Galactica]]''
* ''[[Pacifica]]'' - mentioned in connection with the attack at Cimtar, and so assumed to be one of the battlestars seen near the moon
* ''[[Pegasus (TOS)|Pegasus]]'' - presumed destroyed at the [[Battle of Molecay]] ([[The Living Legend, Part II (TOS)|The Living Legend]])
* ''[[Rycon]]'' - destroyed at the [[Battle of the Cosmara Archipelago (TOS)|Battle of the Cosmara Archipelago]] ([[Take the Celestra]])
* ''[[Triton (TOS)|Triton]]'' - mentioned in connection with the attack at Cimtar, and so assumed to be one of the battlestars seen near the moon

<div style="clear:both;"></div>
==Myth of the Twelve Battlestars (Original Series)==
[[Image:Turrets.JPG|thumb|left|A battlestar's laser batteries fights off Raiders ([[Saga of a Star World]]).]]
Within [[Fan fiction|fan circles]], it has generally been assumed there were twelve original battlestars, given the number of Colonies. This appeared to be supported by ''[[Encyclopedia Galactica]]'', a [[non-canon]]ical publication released in 1979.<ref>{{cite_book|last=Kraus|first=Bruce|authorlink=|authorlinkurl=|coauthors=|year=1979|title=[[Encyclopedia Galactica]]|publisher=|location=|id=|pages=19}}</ref> However, [[Glen A. Larson]] has stated that there was never any decision to have a specific number of battlestars, nor did the Original Series state that only twelve battlestars were built. During the series' run, only eight battlestars are seen or mentioned. Given the length of the [[Thousand-Yahren War]], it seems likely that far more than twelve of these warships were constructed.

''(For contrast, in the [[Battlestar Galactica (RDM)|Re-imagined Series]] continuity, it is stated at the start of the [[Miniseries]] that twelve [[Galactica type battlestar|battlestars]] were initially built during the [[Cylon War]]. However, in the years of and after the Cylon War, an additional 120 battlestars of various classes were built in that continuity. Like its Original Series counterparts, [[Fall of the Twelve Colonies|almost all]] of these battlestars are destroyed in an elaborate Cylon subterfuge.)''
<div style="clear:both;"></div>

== Notes on Dimensions ==

The length and beam figures given here are based on research carried out by [http://ravensbranch.allen.com/galacticasize.html Todd Boyce], a computer animator. There are many differing claims to the actual size of the original battlestars, ranging from some 2,000 feet<ref name="starlog aug 78">{{cite magazine|quotes= |last= Meyers |first= Richard |authorlink= |coauthors= |year= 1978 |month= August |title= Get Ready For... BATTLE STAR "GALACTICA" |magazine=Starlog |volume= |issue= |pages=52-53 |id= |url= |accessdate= }}</ref> (the accepted length in a number of gaming systems) through to 2-3 miles in overall length.

Interviews with series creator [[Glen A. Larson]] and [[John Dykstra]], the Visual Effects supervisor for the [[Battlestar Galactica (TOS)|Original Series]] stated that the original ''[[Galactica#Original Series Galactica|Galactica]]'' was around a mile (1.6km) long. If the scale of the master model used for filming was set at 1/960, then the overall length of ''Galactica'' and her sister ships would be some 6,080ft (1,853m) - or one [[Wikipedia:Nautical Mile|nautical mile]]. However, there is no confirmation available that 1/960 (1 inch = 80ft) was in fact the scale of the model, and the figures have thus been "back engineered" to fit the case. (It should be noted that Dykstra admitted that "[e]verything has to be exaggerated and the fill ratio of the screen has to be higher".<ref name="starlog aug 78"/>)

[[Image:Tos-gal-dim.jpg|left|thumb|Calculating a battlestar's size (credit: Todd Boyce / Universal ABC)]]
In undertaking his work, Boyce utilised an established baseline for his calculations: the full-size mock-up of a Viper built for filming purposes. This mock-up measured some 28.5ft (9m) in length and a wingspan of some 12.5ft (4m), and formed a means by which Boyce could take key shots from various episodes, combine them with a scale model of ''Galactica'' and extrapolate a reasonably-consistent set of measurements. Thus: using film footage alone, Boyce was able to determine the length of ''Galactica'' to be some 4,143ft (1,263m), while use of a scale model produced a figure of some 4,166ft (1,270m): an acceptable difference of some 23ft (7m). What is more, these measurements appear consistent with the overall size of the Viper launch tubes (calculated at some 16ft (5m) in diameter, based on the wingspan of the full-size mock-up and images of Vipers being launched).

Given this degree of similarity in final calculations, these figures have been adopted here as the probable dimensions of the Original Series battlestars. However, in using these figures, it should be noted that:

* Boyce also used a [[Cylon Raider#Original Series Raider|Cylon Raider]] as a benchmark for his calculations, and produced an overall length for ''Galactica'' at between 12,818ft (3,907m) and 21,210ft (6,465m) (2.4 and 4 miles). However, these measurements can be discounted on the grounds that:
** They are initially based on assumed data: a shot of a Cylon Raider apparently "overflying" a Colonial Viper. However, no vertical separation distance between the two can be calculated, leading to a completely arbitrary figure (39ft/12m) for the wingspan of the Raider
** These figures would yield launch tubes between some 50ft (15m) and 82ft (25m) in diameter - which is clearly not supported by film of Viper launches.
* Boyce also used close-up shots of Viper launches to try and calculate the size of ''Galactica'', and arrived at a figure of 2,712ft (827m), with the flight pods measuring 1,294ft (394m). However, these figures cannot be taken at face value, as they would render the Viper launch tubes with a 10.4ft (3m) diameter, making them too small to contain Vipers.

Note: As Boyce used the mock-up Viper he made a fatal assumption of it being exactly in scale with the actual on screen SFX model.
That is unfortunately no the case. The mock-up Viper is smaller and less detailed, hence, cheaper and easier to construct. The difference is (exactly) 10% resulting in a length of 10 m and a wingspan of 4.5-5 m. This brings the Battlestar to about 1400 m.
As BSG was made in light of Star Wars there is the possibility that it's size was intended to be the same as a Stardestoyer (1.5 km).

Note by the researcher: The research page points out that there are proportional differences between the mock-up and the studio model of the Viper, and that the mock-up is used because it had definitive dimensions whereas the filming miniature does not. The studio model is longer in proportion, but it is not necessarily taller or wider (which a second line of research investigated). More definitive research on the matter would need to take place before any claims such as it being "10% larger" could be verified since there are many factors to consider.

Likewise, a Raider overflying a Viper, while not a truly accurate means of measurement, does in fact set the largest dimensions the Raider could possibly be and is therefore useful in the research in demonstrating how the blueprint dimensions did not correspond with the on-screen evidence, at least in that shot. The 39ft measurement is the largest it could be in that shot which is far smaller than the mock-up would indicate. It should also be pointed out that a 39ft wingspan for the raider would yield an approximately 7ft wide cockpit - a bit tight for three Cylon Centurions to fit in.

Ultimately these are not "fatal assumptions" in the research, nor can research be "thrown out" since it is impossible to determine a truly accurate measurement of the ship with multiple valid sources of conflicting evidence. The research page clearly indicates that the reader is to decide for themselves what the results mean, and that like most science fiction shows, the effects are not suited to this kind of scrutiny.

== About The Filming Model ==

The ship model for ''Galactica'' was 6 feet in length and weighed 60 pounds. The model was built from various parts from hundreds of cannibalized plastic model kits, such as those from mini-scaled battleships, land vehicles and planes from the [[w:World War II|World War II]] era, to the point that "the crew had the feeling that, if it hadn't been for World War II, ''Galactica'' (the model) would not have been possible".<ref name="starlog aug 78"/>

== Notes ==

* ''According to ''[[Encyclopedia Galactica]]'', a non-canonical piece of merchandise published in 1979:''
: Battlestars are constructed in planetary orbit. Battlestars have a maximum range of 500 light-[[yahren]] before refueling, although this can be affected by high-speed maneuvering and the use of weapons, which are powered by the same fuel source as the engines.

: Battlestars contain eight squadrons of [[Viper (TOS)|Viper]]s, in addition to being armed with "banks of turret-mounted laser cannon, strategically mounted to defend most vital areas of the ship from head-on attack" and "space-to-space torpedoes" capable of destroying larger enemy craft.

: For shielding, battlestars use a "powerful radiation field" capable of deflecting most laser attacks and heavy armor plating to dampen explosive ordnance, like torpedoes or missiles. Furthermore, battlestars are split into segments that can be sealed should the hull be compromised, so the entire ship is not lost.

: For propulsion, battlestars "are powered to sub-light speeds by twin [[solium]] [[energizer]]s that convert matter directly into propulsive force. [[Tylium]] thrusters boost the ship past the [[lightspeed|light barrier]]; on full power, speeds of light times ten have been attained."

: Battlestars are crewed by 500 people and consists of various facilities, "including a 100 bed [[life-station]], a fully equipped [[rejuvenation center]] and a variable-gravity gymnasium".<ref>{{cite_book|last=Kraus|first=Bruce|authorlink=|authorlinkurl=|coauthors=|year=1979|title=[[Encyclopedia Galactica]]|publisher=|location=|id=|pages=19-20}}</ref>

== External Links ==

*[http://www.starbacks.ca/sjpaxton/battlest.html The Lost Battlestars]
*[http://www.starbacks.ca/sjpaxton/battlestars2.html The Battlestar Names and Their Name Sources] by John Larocque
*[http://battlebuck.com/Galactica/Galactica/BigG.html Original studio miniature in hands of private collector]
*[http://customreplicas.com/specialevents.html Precise replica of original studio miniature at Sci-Fi Museum in Seattle WA USA]

==References==
<div style="font-size:85%"><references/></div>

[[Category:A to Z]]
[[Category:Battlestars]]
[[Category:Battlestars (TOS)]]
[[Category:Colonial]]
[[Category:Colonial Craft]]
[[Category:Colonial Craft (TOS)]]
[[Category:Colonial Military]]
[[Category:Colonial Military (TOS)]]
[[Category:Ships]]
[[Category:Ships (TOS)]]
[[Category:TOS]]
{{TOS}}

[[de:Kampfstern (TOS)]]

Atmospheric shuttle

2011-11-12T12:34:51Z

Star-art: /* References */

:''For the [[Original Series]] counterpart, see [[Colonial Shuttle (TOS)]].''

{{Ship Data
| image= AtmoShutt.jpg
| title= Atmospheric shuttle
| race= Colonial
| type= Military/Civilian
| ftl= Yes, on at least one shuttle model
| crew= Unknown
| role= Short range [[FTL]] passenger transport between ships/planet surface
}}

'''Atmospheric shuttles'''<ref>{{bsgwiki term}}</ref> are vessels whose primary role is ferrying passengers to and from the different vessels within the [[The Fleet (RDM)|Fleet]] or to a planet's surface.

Atmospheric shuttles appear on both military and civilian vessels. A shuttle is seen in ''[[Galactica]]'''s [[landing bay]] ([[Miniseries]]) and on the hangar deck of ''[[Cloud Nine]]'' ([[Resistance (episode)|Resistance]]).

An atmospheric shuttle ferries a [[Laura Roslin faction|group]] around Laura Roslin seeking the whereabouts of Earth to the [[Galleon Meadow]] on [[Kobol (RDM)|Kobol]] ([[Home, Part I]]), and docks to ''Galactica'' in "[[Act of Contrition]]". A shuttle is also seen at rest on the surface of [[New Caprica]] during its colonization, and during food retrieval efforts on the [[algae planet]] ([[The Eye of Jupiter]]).

When [[Kendra Shaw]] waits at the [[Caprica Transfer Station]] for her lift to the [[Scorpion Fleet Shipyards]], she sees a shuttle taking off outside the tent ([[Razor]]).

Three distinct shuttle models have been identified. For classification purposes only, as their true specifications are unknown, they are identified on this page as follows: "Heavy" Shuttle, "General Purpose" Shuttle, and [[Cylon War]]-era Shuttle.

== "Heavy" Shuttle ==
First seen in the opening scene of the Miniseries, it appears to be a clear homage to the original shuttle seen in [[TOS]]. There is little to use to gauge the true size of the craft, but it ''appears'' to be larger with it's bulk more fully filled out down the length of the vessel.

<gallery>
Image:Starboard_rear_view_of_Atmospheric_Shuttle.gif|Starboard rear view
Image:Port_rear_view_of_Atmospheric_Shuttle.gif‎‎|Port rear view
Image:Atmospheric shuttle-detailed exterior shot.gif|Detailed exterior shot
</gallery>

This model is definitely [[FTL]] capable per the exchange between Commander [[William Adama]] and Lt. [[Felix Gaeta]] in the Miniseries: "Courier officer's overdue coming back from Armistice Station. They've asked for a full status report on all FTL-capable ships just in case they need somebody to jump out there today....". Clearly a FTL capable vessel was required to reach the Armistice Station.

== "General Purpose" Shuttle ==
This model appears to be the most commonly used, especially in civilian service. But it is also used by the military as well. However it is never clear if this model has FTL capability.

<gallery>
Image:Three quarters view of alternate version of Atmospheric shuttle.gif|Shuttle shot as seen in [[Razor]]
Image:Tail assembly view of alternate version of Atmospheric shuttle.gif|Tail assembly view from Razor
Image:Alternate or civilian version of Atmospheric Shuttle.gif|Shot of shuttle in route to the [[Botanical Cruiser]] in the Miniseries
</gallery>

== Cylon War-era Shuttle ==
This model, as best can be determined by the one low resolution shot of it from the Miniseries and [[Razor Flashbacks]], is TOS version of the shuttle. Again, it is not known if this model is FTL capable either.

Gauging by the Mk II Vipers near the shuttle in the image, one can determine a very rough approximation of the shuttle being the equivalent of 2-3 Vipers in length.
<gallery>
Image:Cylon War era shuttle.gif|Shuttle seen in the Galactica museum in the Miniseries and Razor Flashbacks</gallery>

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==References==
<div style="font-size:85%"><references/></div>
[http://www.galactica.tv/battlestar-galactica-2003-news/charles-adams-battlestar-galactica-shuttle-mk-ii-design.html Galactica.TV article on the design and creation of the Shuttle Mk II]<br>
[http://www.modelermagic.com/?p=392 ModelerMagic.com article on the design and creation of the Shuttle Mk II]
[[Category:A to Z]]
[[Category:Colonial]]
[[Category:Colonial Craft]]
[[Category:Colonial Craft (RDM)]]
[[Category:Descriptive terms]]
[[Category:Ships]]
[[Category:Ships (RDM)]]
[[Category:RDM]]