Resurrection (RDM)

For information on a book based on the Original Series universe, see Resurrection (book).

Cylon resurrecting.

When a Cylon agent's body ceases to function, their consciousness can be transmitted (or downloaded) into a duplicate Cylon humanoid body. This process is known as resurrection.

For resurrection to occur, the dying agent must be close to a resurrection point, or a Cylon agent's consciousness risks being permanently lost. The transmission method of a Cylon's consciousness has not been explained, but a form of wireless is probable. Resurrection points identifed include the Cylon homeworld, a Resurrection Ship, or other facility, probably located on a planet where numerous agents would congregate. A rebirthing facility may have existed on occupied Caprica. Within each resurrection point is at least one Cylon rebirthing tank, where a duplicate body is immersed in a thick opaque substance to await download.

While Cylon agents appear to be able to be resurrected indefinitely, two problems can occur. Repeated downloads cause pain and other unexplained symptoms. A Cavil reported severe headaches after one resurrection, and a sensation that felt like "a white hot poker in my skull" in a following instance (Exodus, Part I). Far more threatening is if a Cylon agent's memories have become compromised, corrupted, or otherwise tainted (based on the perspective of other Cylons). If that occurs, the consciousness might not be downloaded, instead being "boxed," a drastic measure equivalent in Cylon society to our capital punishment. Conversation in "Downloaded" suggests that this is either very rare or has never occured.

Very little is known about the mechanics of downloading. With a proper setup, a complete download can be performed in no longer than two days. This measurement comes from the download of the Cavil previously mentioned in Exodus, Parts I & II. However, too little is known to determine whether this is among the quickest or the slowest amounts of time required to download, as the audience was not privy to the logistical or technological barriers in initiating that download.

The semi-sentient personalities of Raiders also can be retrieved. This allows the Raiders to return to fight with greater tactical awareness. Scar may have been one such Raider to learn master fighting tactics. The Scar personality scores many Colonial kills before its permanent destruction. It is not known if Raider retrieval is managed by a Resurrection Ship or through a basestar, its home base.