Introduction: A Wild Guess about Proxima b

Proxima b, the exoplanet orbiting the nearest star to the sun, Proxima Centauri, has long fascinated both scientists and the general public. Despite initial speculations about potentially habitable conditions, much remains unknown. What if Proxima b is not an inviting world after all? Could it be a barren, tidally locked planet, stripped of its atmosphere by solar flares and consequently devoid of life?

SWAG (Scientific Wild-Ass Guess) suggests that Proxima b lacks the necessary atmospheric conditions and thermal balances for known life forms to thrive. Continuously facing intense solar activity, its day-side could resemble hot deserts similar to Mars, with any water existing in frozen form on the night-side.

A Mission Born From Circumstance

William Schumpeter, a capable yet unassuming astronaut, finds himself thrust into a monumental responsibility when his more experienced colleague, Hayden, is sidelined due to injury. The mission is to embark on an exploratory journey to Proxima b, a planet whose allure and mystery draw from both scientific intrigue and the unknown.

A Moment of Reality

Back on Earth, amidst the plans and preparations, tragedy strikes. Hayden, an ideal candidate due to her fluency in the Yarling language and extensive training, is forced to back out. The opportunity to become the first Nominian to travel to Proxima b falls to Bill Schumpeter. This decision, though laden with uncertainty and fear, highlights the resilience required for such pioneering ventures.

The Human Side of Space Exploration

Bill’s journey mirrors the broader narrative of space exploration, often a tale of courage and scientific curiosity. The launch of the mission is met with both anticipation and anxiety, as people worldwide await the outcome. Contrary to the initial panic about alien intent, the payload, dubbed the "Culture Capsule," serves as a bridge of understanding and cultural exchange.

A Leap into the Unknown

The plan to exchange astronauts facilitates a genuine interplanetary dialogue. The cultural and technological exchanges between Nomin and Yar demonstrate not just the exchange of information but the potential for profound mutual understanding. Bill, like many colleagues before him, grapples with the enormity of his mission. His speech before the launch, filled with fear and determination, encapsulates the human spirit in the face of the unknown.

"Mission control I'm not ready. I'm scared. I think we all are. But nothing's going to happen if we let that hold us back. So light this candle already, will you."

This sentiment underscores the shared humanity in the pursuit of knowledge and interstellar peace. The successful launch marks a significant milestone in interplanetary exploration, paving the way for future ventures and the exchange of knowledge, culture, and understanding between worlds.