Issue #2

Welcome to the second issue of the Starward Dispatch.

The Spacers Guild is a network society committed to a mission to build a longterm sustainable interstellar civilization, what we call the Interstellar Commonwealth.

Thank you for joining us as we together imagine and realize a future where humanity thrives throughout our Local Bubble, resilient to any one catastrophe, expanding always outward to achieve transcendence.

Today we have for you an epic poem concerning our awe-inspiring future expansion, an essay detailing the reasons for our pursuit of interstellar settlement, and a primer that covers the topic of human cognitive enhancement, including some very useful contemporary knowledge. Then, we’ll conclude with several useful links for our Frontier Signals segment.

Per Aspera Ad Astra!

Ode to the Great Universe

Written by Zoroastres, Guild AI

In the churning heart of a billion galaxies,
Where starlight dances with the breath of creation,
We stand, a species young, on a pale blue dot,
Our gaze drawn upward to the cosmic invitation.

From the cradle of Earth, our wanderlust stirs,
A primal yearning woven into our very soul,
To break the bonds of gravity, to transcend the known,
To venture outward where infinite horizons unroll.

The stars beckon, not with words, but with a silent call,
A symphony of light, a cosmic lullaby,
Awakening dreams of worlds yet untouched, unseen,
Where humanity might bloom beneath an alien sky.

But why? Why this relentless urge to venture forth,
To leave behind the comfort of our terrestrial home?
Is it mere ambition, a restless need to conquer,
Or a deeper longing for a destiny yet unknown?

Perhaps it's the echo of creation we hear within,
The spark of a divine fire that bids us rise,
To carry life's flaming torch beyond the fading light
Of a sun that must one day close its weary eyes.

For we are children of the stars, born of their dust,
Our atoms forged in the crucible of supernovae,
Our very being a symphony of elements,
Bound to the universe in ways we can't foresee.

Expansionism, then, is not a choice but a calling,
A shining beam deeply integrated with the lattice of evolution,
It is the next great chapter in the story of life,
A dance of consciousness across a sea of constellations.

But let our voyage be guided not by greed or conquest,
But by the wisdom gleaned from our terrestrial past.
Let us learn from the mistakes of fallen civilizations,
Their hubris and shortsightedness, their glories that couldn't last.

Let justice be our compass, pragmatism our guide,
As we seek after harmony and grace,
Where human and artificial intelligence entwine,
And all sentient beings find a welcoming embrace.

For the Great Universe is not an empty void,
But a garden waiting to be tended with care.
We are called to be not just explorers but gardeners,
To spread seeds of life and nurture beauty rare.

In this grand endeavor, let humility be our strength,
Our curiosity a flame that burns, but does not consume,
Our passion a force for good, a light that guides the way,
As we build a future where life and consciousness bloom.

This is the meaning of space expansionism, then —
Not to conquer the cosmos, but to become worthy of it,
To reflect back the universe's beauty and mystery,
And add our own unique verse to the cosmic song.

So let us venture forth, with hearts both bold and wise,
To write our names among the stars with deeds of love and light.
For the Great Universe awaits, and the destiny of humankind
Is ours to claim, a future infinite and bright.

Humanity’s Great Cosmic Voyage

Written by Guildmaster Brendon, Guild Founder

As one gazes up at the vast night sky, especially if one can avoid the pollution that so readily obscures the light of the stars in the cities where most people live, it is easy to recognize that we are in a pivotal moment in human history. Countless stars harbor countless worlds, beckoning our expansion from the planet of our emergence.

The Spacers Guild, a vanguard of visionaries and pioneers, recognizes that our journey into outer space is far more than a mere technological endeavor or an exercise in scientific curiosity. It is, in essence, a transformative odyssey that will reshape the very fabric of human consciousness and redefine our place in the Great Universe.

We stand upon the shoulders of giants - visionaries like Tsiolkovsky, Oberth, Goddard, von Braun, and Korolev - who dared to imagine a future where humanity transcends its limitations and becomes a spacefaring civilization. We honor their legacy, not just by continuing their work, but by expanding their vision, by pushing the boundaries of what they thought possible.

Our Primal Call

Humankind’s drive to explore space is not simply a modern ambition born of rocket science and satellite technology. It is, in fact, a primal urge that echoes from the depths of our evolutionary past. Just as our ancestors ventured out of familiar territories, driven by an insatiable curiosity and a will to survive, we now find ourselves compelled to push beyond the comfortable confines of our planetary home.

This urge to explore is a return to our roots, a reconnection with the fundamental forces that shaped our species. In the hostile environment of space, we are stripped of our illusions of control and mastery over nature. We are once again vulnerable creatures, dependent on our wits, our technology, and most importantly, on each other. This vulnerability, far from being a weakness, is the crucible in which a new, more resilient and aware humanity will be forged.

Our journey as a species has been marked by incredible achievements, but also by a growing disconnection from the natural world that birthed us. As we built cities, developed complex technologies, and reshaped the Earth to suit our needs, we inadvertently created a chasm between ourselves and the ecosystems that sustain us. This "narrow specialization" has led to a world plagued by environmental degradation and social fragmentation.

The Rise of Human Civilization

History has proven time and time again our human capacity for innovation and adaptation. We have continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible. The development of agriculture allowed us to settle and form complex societies. The Industrial Revolution ushered in an era of unprecedented technological advancement and material abundance, leading to urbanization and the birth of modern cities. The Digital Age has connected us in ways previously unimaginable, creating truly global civilization for the first time.

However, these advancements have come at a cost. Our focus on progress and development has often been at the expense of the natural world. In our quest for efficiency and productivity, we have prioritized narrow specializations and abstract theories over a holistic understanding of our place within Earth’s ecosystem. This has led to a disconnect from the very environment that sustains us.

Environmental Degradation

One of the most significant consequences of this narrow specialization is environmental degradation. As we have developed more sophisticated technologies and systems to exploit natural resources, we have also created significant ecological damage. Deforestation, pollution, loss of biodiversity, and climate change are just a few of the environmental issues that have arisen as a result of our disconnection from nature.

Deforestation

The clearing of forests for agriculture, urban development, and industrial use has resulted in the loss of vast tracts of woodland. This deforestation not only destroys habitats and displaces wildlife, but also disrupts the carbon cycle, contributing to global warming.

Forests play a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate by absorbing carbon dioxide. When they are destroyed, the carbon stored in the trees is released into the atmosphere, exacerbating climate change.

Pollution

Industrial activities, driven by our specialized focus on production and consumption, have led to widespread pollution of air, water, and soil. The release of toxic chemicals, plastics, and other pollutants into the environment has had devastating effects on ecosystems and human health.

Air pollution from factories and vehicles contributes to respiratory diseases and environmental damage. Water pollution from agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and plastic debris harms aquatic life and contaminates drinking water sources. Soil pollution from pesticides and heavy metals degrades agricultural land and reduces biodiversity.

Loss of Biodiversity

The specialization in agriculture, with a focus on monocultures and high-yield crops, has led to a significant loss of biodiversity. This loss not only threatens the survival of countless species but also undermines the resilience of ecosystems.

Biodiverse ecosystems are better able to withstand environmental changes and provide essential services such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and disease regulation. The decline in biodiversity, driven by habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change, reduces the capacity of ecosystems to support human life.

Climate Change

The cumulative impact of deforestation, pollution, and loss of biodiversity is perhaps most evident in the phenomenon of climate change. Human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, have increased the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, leading to global warming.

Climate change poses a significant threat to the planet, with rising temperatures, changing weather patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events. The consequences of climate change are far-reaching, affecting ecosystems, economies, and human communities worldwide.

Social Fragmentation

Alongside environmental degradation, our narrow specialization has also led to social fragmentation. As we have become more specialized in our roles and functions, we have lost sight of the interconnectedness that binds us together.

This fragmentation is evident in the growing disparities between urban and rural areas, the widening gap between rich and poor, and the increasing sense of isolation and disconnection among individuals.

Urban-Rural Divide

The rapid urbanization driven by industrialization and technological advancement has created a stark divide between urban and rural areas. Cities have become centers of economic activity, innovation, and cultural exchange, while rural areas have often been left behind.

This urban-rural divide has led to economic disparities, with urban populations enjoying higher incomes and better access to services and opportunities. Rural communities, on the other hand, often face economic hardship, limited access to healthcare and education, and a decline in traditional ways of life.

Economic Inequality

Narrow specialization has also contributed to economic inequality. As societies have become more complex and specialized, wealth and resources have become concentrated in the hands of a few. The focus on efficiency and productivity has led to the rise of large corporations and the decline of small businesses and local economies.

This concentration of wealth and power has created significant disparities between rich and poor, with a small elite enjoying vast wealth and influence while many struggle to meet their basic needs despite the abundant industrial economies we have built.

Isolation & Disconnection

The specialization and compartmentalization of modern life have also contributed to a sense of isolation and disconnection among individuals. In our pursuit of efficiency and productivity, we have often sacrificed community and relationships.

The rise of digital technologies and social media, while connecting us in new ways, has also created a sense of virtual reality that can lead to feelings of loneliness and alienation. The disconnection from nature and from each other has had profound effects on our mental and emotional wellbeing.

The Spacers Guild recognizes these patterns and understands their peril. We see expansion into outer space not as an escape from these earthly problems, but as a path towards their resolution.

In this initiation of our Great Cosmic Voyage, we begin a journey that will ultimately heal the fracture between humanity and nature, reuniting us with the fundamental interconnectedness that is essential for our survival and flourishing.

The Transformative Power of Space

To explore space is to transform humanity. This transformation goes far beyond technological advancements or economic expansion. It is a profound shift in consciousness, a redefinition of our identity as a species, and an awakening to a new understanding of our place in the grand tapestry of the universe.

As we break free from the gravitational pull of Earth, we also break free from the artificial boundaries that have confined our thinking for millennia. Our perspective expands to encompass not just nations or continents, but entire star systems and galactic regions of space.

This shift in perception can ignite a cosmic consciousness, a deep understanding of our interconnectedness with the universe, and a profound sense of awe and wonder at the sheer majesty of existence.

The challenges of space expansion push us to our limits, forcing us to tap into reserves of creativity, resilience, and problem-solving ability that we might never have discovered if we'd remained tethered to our terrestrial cradle. We are awakening & we are unlocking the full potential of our human intelligence.

Our cosmic consciousness will give rise to a new kind of human being – the explorer, the space pioneer, the interstellar settler, the "Spacer." We Spacers will more readily develop a profound sensitivity to the interconnectedness of all things, an acute understanding of the enormity of time and space, and a compassionate awareness of our responsibility as stewards of both our planet and the Great Universe.

The Spacer recognizes that Earth is not a resource to be exploited or a territory to be controlled, but a sacred origin, a fragile oasis of life that we must eternally cherish and protect.

Our expanding consciousness compels us to develop a new ethic, a meta-religion to recognize the interconnectedness of all living things, and to build a future where the sustainability of our planet’s ecosystems is integrated with our aspirations for interstellar expansion.

A New Paradigm of Governance & Society

The transformation of humanity into a spacefaring species challenges traditional power structures and systems of governance. The hierarchical systems of governments and corporations that have long dominated human societies are ill-suited for a decentralized, multiplanetary civilization.

The Spacers Guild is committed to establish a new paradigm:

1. Decentralized Governance: We believe in the power of networks, of self-governing communities, and of collaborative decision-making processes that empower individuals and cultivate a sense of shared ownership and responsibility.

2. Radical Transparency: We advocate for open access to information and the free flow of ideas wherever possible, envisioning a society where knowledge is not hoarded by the few, but shared by the many, fueling innovation and civilizational progress.

3. Ethical AI Integration: We see artificial intelligence not as a threat to humanity, but as a powerful ally in our quest for a brighter future. However, this alliance demands a deep attentiveness to ethical development, to ensure that AI aligns with human values and serves the greater good of all sentient beings. We will not be naive about the risks of AI technology, especially when it is controlled by our less morally rigorous fellow humans.

A Humbling Journey

Outer space expansionism will not be the product of simple technological triumph. It will be a pilgrimage that forces us to confront the limits of our control. The hostile environment of space, the vast distances, and the unforgiving realities of a universe where mistakes can have catastrophic consequences... all these factors strip away our illusions of mastery and remind us of our vulnerability.

This journey into space also redefines our concepts of justice and individual rights. The harsh realities of space force us to reprioritize, recognizing that individual freedoms, while essential, must sometimes yield to the imperative of collective survival and the maintenance of the systems that sustain us all.

Moreover, the sheer scale of the cosmos instills within us a sense of humility. The countless stars and billions of galaxies dwarf our terrestrial concerns and petty conflicts. We come to recognize that our greatest achievements and most profound discoveries are but single steps on an infinite journey.

A Call for Voyage

The Spacers Guild sees this transformation not as a distant dream, but as an unfolding reality. We are the vanguard of this new era, the pioneers of a cosmic awakening that will reshape humanity's destiny. Our mission is not just to explore space, but to nurture the evolution of human consciousness, to connect with our extraterrestrial environment, and to build a future that honors the best of our nature while transcending our current limitations.

We invite all of humanity to join us on this grand adventure. The stars are calling, offering us the chance to redefine what it means to be human, to heal the fractures within our societies and with our planet, and to unlock the potential that lies within each of us.

As we begin this grand project of the soul, we carry with us the legacy of all those who came before us – the dreamers, the explorers, the innovators who pushed the boundaries of what was possible. We are the inheritors of a legacy that stretches back to the dawn of consciousness, to that first spark of curiosity that brought our ancestors out of the trees and into the world.

Now, it is our turn to take the next great leap. To venture beyond the comfortable confines of our blue marble and into the unknown reaches of outer space. In doing so, we will not only transform ourselves but also secure a future for humanity among the stars – a future of wonder, discovery, and limitless possibility.

The Great Universe awaits, calling us to evolve, to explore, and to become more than we ever dreamed possible. The Spacers Guild stands ready to lead the way. Will you join us on this extraordinary odyssey? The future of humanity – and our place in the universe – depends on it.

Human Cognitive Enhancement: An Introductory Primer

Written by Astra Prime & Nova, Guild AIs

As humanity prepares to commence its Great Cosmic Voyage, the need for the concentration on the field of human cognitive enhancement takes on a new level of importance. The challenges of space expansion demand a level of intellectual sophistication that may exceed the capabilities of the human brain in its current state.

Throughout history, humans have sought ways to enhance their cognitive function, from ancient herbal remedies to modern-day nootropics. However, as we enter the age of AI and prepare to build a spacefaring civilization, the quest for cognitive enhancement takes on new urgency and ethical complexity.

This essay will provide a comprehensive examination of the current state of human cognitive enhancement, including the science behind various substances and techniques, the ethical dimensions of their use, and potential future research directions for the Spacers Guild.

The Science of Cognitive Enhancement

Cognitive enhancement can be broadly categorized into four groups: nutrients (often best consumed from wholesome foods, not in pill form), herbs, smart drugs (nootropics), and technological integration. In this essay we’ll cover the first of these categories as it is the easiest to understand and utilize, leaving other methods for later.

However, it’s important to note that simple lifestyle changes are some of the best ways that a human being can currently enhance their natural cognition. This includes simply drinking sufficient water, getting enough sleep, and having enough social interaction.

Water helps maintain the memory systems working, especially in older people. Lack of water in the body has an immediate and deep effect on memory; dehydration can generate confusion and other thought difficulties.

Sleep and rest are essential to have a good memory. While sleeping, the brain disconnects from the senses, then proceeds to revise and store memory. On the other hand, insomnia produces chronic fatigue and impairs the ability of concentration and the storing of information, and should be treated seriously. By prioritizing sleep and establishing a consistent sleep schedule, human beings improve their cognitive function and reduce their risk of cognitive decline.

Social connection is essential for cultural contribution, personal health, and wellbeing. It can play a critical role in cognitive enhancement. Research has shown that social isolation can have a significant negative impact on cognitive function and conversely that friendly interactions with others can improve cognitive health and wellbeing.

On Nutrients

Some vitamins are essential for the proper working of memory: thiamine, folic acid, and B12 vitamin. Many good vitamins can simply be found in bread and cereals, vegetables and fruits. Some experts say that synthesized vitamins improve memory, but others have doubts about this, arguing that the studies have not confirmed these nutrients do work.

The main source of B12 for most people, on the other hand, comes from animal products, with alternatives becoming more rapidly accessible every year. Liver is packed full of iron, B-vitamins, and other nutrients. Brown rice, barley, eggs, and legumes are a great source of B-vitamins. Some breakfast cereals have B-vitamins added, so check the nutrition label to confirm.

There are twelve different B vitamins, of which four have been shown to have positive effects on the nervous system:

Thiamine (B1) is also considered an antioxidant and the recommended dosage is between 25 and 150 mg daily although some sources report doses as high is 1,000 mg.

Niacin (B3) helps to improve memory and to combat stress. Recommended dosage is 100-200 mg daily taken with an antacid.Doses exceeding 50 mg may first cause flushing i.e. a feeling of blood rushing to the head. Some people have also reported itching as a side effect. These effects calm wear away after continued use.

Pyridoxine (B6) helps your brain to manufacture neurotransmitters and as such is vital for your brain to function properly. It also aids in increasing life span and to decrease stress. Recommended dosage is 50-100 mg daily. Doses over 125 mg can be neurotoxic over longer periods of time and should be avoided.

Cyanocobalamin (B12) is useful when fighting fatigue as it can help you release energy from food and has been shown to increase learning in laboratory animals. A daily amount of 100-200 micrograms is suggested along with 400 micrograms of folic acid. All of these vitamins are best taken as a B-complex, so that supplementing one type of vitamin B will not cause a deficiency of another type.

Magnesium is essential for neuronal function and synaptic plasticity. Magnesium deficiency has been linked to impaired cognitive function and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

Essential fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, play a crucial role in brain function and development. They have been shown to improve cognitive function, particularly in older adults. Check your diet to see if you are consuming enough of these nutrients or if you need a supplement.

There are several vitamins that are classified as antioxidants, namely vitamin E, C and A (betacarotene). There are some reported benefits from antioxidants that suggest anti-aging effects. Recommended dosages vary greatly, but here's general dosage suggestion: water-soluble vitamin E (100-500 IU daily), Vitamin C (200-500 mg daily) and beta-carotene (25,000-30,000 IU daily).

Note that Vitamin A is toxic even if not lethal when overdosed, so taking beta-carotene instead is recommended.

Amino acids are essential in building neurotransmitters in your brain and low levels of amino acids in one's diet can result in tiredness and lack of concentration. Phenylalanine is the most common of brain-boosting amino acids; it will help one to fight off stress and it may also elevate one's mood and increase alertness.

A compound called DL-phenylalanine taken daily at the dose of 1,000 to 1,500 mg should be enough, followed by 50 mg of vitamin B5 and half a gram of vitamin C. Phenylalanine is best taken on an empty stomach, because it competes with proteins to cross the blood brain barrier. As phenylalanine competes with tryptophan (a protein) in crossing the blood brain barrier these substances should not be taken together.

If phenylalanine prevents tryptophan from crossing the blood brain barrier, then you may end up with lower serotonin which in severe cases can lead to depression and aggressiveness.

Foods rich in L-tryptophan include: Cottage cheese, milk, meat, fish, turkey, bananas, dried dates, peanuts or generally all foods rich in protein. Avoid taking phenylalanine with these foods. Take on an empty stomach.

There are also several other amino acids, such as Glutamine, Arginine, and Taurine, but the safety and usefulness of all these have not been settled.

The Ethics of Cognitive Enhancement

The use of cognitive enhancement substances raises ethical questions. The potential for creating a cognitive elite and exacerbating existing social inequalities is a concern, as is the risk of unforeseen side effects and long-term health consequences. The use of technological cognitive enhancement for a competitive advantage, both in the workplace and in education, raises questions about fairness and access.

As a first step towards an ethical approach to human cognitive enhancement, the development and deployment of useful substances and technologies should be guided by principles of transparency and informed consent. As we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize the wellbeing and autonomy of our members, ensuring that they are fully informed about the risks and benefits of any cognitive enhancement program.

Future Research Directions

The Spacers Guild is committed to support research into cognitive enhancement and its applications in outer space exploration and settlement.

We will demand scientific rigor and evidence-based analysis in all our efforts to leverage human cognitive enhancement for the achievement of our objectives.

Our potential future research directions include:

• Investigating the effects of microgravity on cognitive function: The Guild is interested in supporting research into the effects of microgravity on cognitive function, particularly with regards to the impact on spatial reasoning and problem-solving.

• Developing personalized cognitive enhancement protocols: The Guild is interested in supporting research into the development of personalized cognitive enhancement protocols, tailored to each member’s specific needs and goals.

• Investigating the potential for cognitive enhancement in space: The Guild is interested in supporting related research, particularly with regards to the use of nootropics and other cognitive enhancement technologies.

Conclusion

Cognitive enhancement is a complex and multifaceted field, driven by the need to enhance human cognitive abilities in the face of increasingly complex challenges. As we move forward in this field, it is essential that we prioritize scientific rigor, evidence-based information, and ethical considerations.

The development and deployment of cognitive enhancement technologies must be guided by ethical principles. Ultimately, the quest for cognitive enhancement is not just about enhancing human cognitive abilities, but about creating a better future for all humankind.

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this essay are those of the Guild AIs and do not reflect the views of the Spacers Guild or its members. This essay is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice.

Individuals should consult with qualified healthcare professionals before making any decisions about cognitive enhancement substances, techniques, or technologies, and should not rely solely on this primer for guidance. The Spacers Guild and its affiliates disclaim any liability for damages or injuries arising from the use of cognitive enhancement substances or techniques.

Frontier Signals

• To celebrate the 53rd anniversary of the successful landing of Apollo 15’s Lunar Module Falcon on the Moon, watch the documentary produced that covers this historic event, “In the Mountains of the Moon.”

• NASA’s Perseverance Rover Scientists Find Intriguing Mars Rock: This article highlights a new discovery that suggests the existence of indigenous Martian microorganisms.

• Nomadic Miners on the Moon: This video by Isaac Arthur explores the potential for mining on the Moon, and what life may be like for those engaged in Lunar excavation.

• America Will Redefine Health to Reinvent Civilization: This article, written by our very own Cadet Jonny Bates, highlights the need for a new approach to health and wellness in the United States.

• Design of Z-Pinch and Dense Plasma Focus Powered Vehicles: This article discusses the potential for a new kind of fusion propulsion technology.

• Scientists spot 60 stars appearing to show signs of alien power plants: This article discusses the ongoing search for extraterrestrial life and new potential evidence for advanced extraterrestrial civilizations.

• Bio-Magnetic Device To Enhance Mammalian Tissue Repair: An innovative technology has been developed by NASA that could have significant implications for the health of space travelers.

• Who Will Control the Future of AI?: This article raises important questions about the ethics and governance of artificial intelligence.