Daedalus

This article has a separate continuity. This article is in the Richard Hatch Novelizations separate continuity, which is related to the Original Series. Be sure that your contributions to this article reflect the characters and events specific to this continuity only.

Daedalus is a battlestar serving in the Colonial fleet following the exodus from the Twelve Colonies. The battlestar operates alongside Galactica and, when reunited, Pegasus as one of the fleet's primary military vessels.

Command and Operations

Daedalus is commanded by Captain Athena, who assumes command of the vessel after Apollo entrusts her with the responsibility during critical fleet operations. Apollo's decision to place Athena in command represents a significant demonstration of his respect for her abilities as both a warrior and leader.

Prior to major engagements, Athena operates from Daedalus's bridge, coordinating with Apollo on Galactica and maintaining open communication channels between the battlestars. The ship serves as a critical component of the fleet's defense structure, with Athena organizing Viper patrols and managing the ship's combat operations.

Combat Engagements

Battle in the Ur Cloud

During the fleet's passage through the mysterious Ur cloud, Daedalus participates in a desperate defense against a massive Cylon assault. When hundreds of Cylon fighters descend upon the weakened fleet, Vipers launch from both Galactica and Daedalus in what Apollo considers might be their final battle.

The engagement proves particularly challenging due to the fleet's weakened state and critical fuel shortages that affect both battlestars. Despite these limitations, the pilots from Daedalus join their Galactica counterparts in forming a defensive line against the overwhelming Cylon forces.

Defense of Kobol

During operations near Kobol, Daedalus plays a crucial role in protecting civilian ships attempting to escape through a planetary fissure. Under Athena's command, the battlestar maintains a defensive formation while approximately one-third of the civilian fleet remains vulnerable in the fissure.

When Cylon basestars approach from multiple directions, Athena orders Daedalus to tighten formation and face the approaching threats directly. Throughout this engagement, she maintains constant communication with Apollo, coordinating the fleet's defensive strategy despite overwhelming odds.

Operational Challenges

Daedalus faces significant resource challenges during the fleet's journey. Fuel shortages become particularly critical during operations in the Ur cloud, with reserves depleted to dangerous levels. These shortages affect Viper operations launched from the battlestar, limiting patrol range and combat effectiveness.

A tragic incident occurs when a barge carrying refugees from Hestia runs out of fuel while in transit to Rising Star. Although the barge had launched from Daedalus fully fueled according to manifests, it mysteriously depletes its fuel reserves, resulting in the loss of over two hundred lives. Athena takes personal responsibility for the incident, though the cause remains under investigation.

Fleet Integration

Following the fleet's reunion with Pegasus and the discovery of Paradis, Daedalus participates in the massive reconstruction effort. The battlestar, along with Galactica, undergoes modifications to accommodate additional civilian quarters as the fleet prepares for its continued journey.

Commander Cain acknowledges Daedalus as one of three battlestars capable of standing against Cylon basestars, expressing pride in the collective strength of Pegasus, Galactica, and Daedalus despite the overwhelming odds they face.

Legacy

Daedalus serves as a symbol of the Colonial fleet's resilience and the new generation of leadership emerging after Commander Adama's death. Under Athena's command, the battlestar demonstrates that the fleet's military strength extends beyond the legendary Galactica, providing crucial defensive capabilities during humanity's exodus toward Earth.