The Accidental Explorer

Anthony Travellor, and the five other members of the Trailblazer team, are on their way to the moon. They are traveling in a modified ship, that wasn't designed to carry people. They have a limited time frame to get there, or risk running out of air. Their mission, to establish the first permanent operational base on the moon, is a secret, not known even to the U.S. Congress. The idea was first conceived in 1981, before the United States had the technology to accomplish the task. Now, on the day of the launch, the technology is still barely adequate to accomplish the mission. Preparations have been ongoing, and supplies have been landed on the moon's surface, waiting for the team's arrival. The problem they face is, even if they get there alive, there is no way for them to get back to the Earth. The breathable air in the ship, and their space suits, would not last long enough for the return trip - it's a one way ticket. Then, there is the challenge of constructing the shelter that will keep them alive, and doing so before the air in their suits runs out.Why would these explorers risk their lives to accomplish this mission? Each has their own reasons. They all see the need, and understand that risks are necessary when reaching for the stars. Patriotism, and the will to sacrifice for the security of their country, is part of it. Believing that if they don't do the job, no on else will, is another part. Their need for excitement and danger is also a part. To attempt what they are attempting, while understanding the potential for their own demise, defines each one of them as part of the rare breed willing to look the Grim Reaper in the eye, and stare him down. The Trailblazer team expected to put their lives at risk, but they didn't expect that someone else was already there, waiting for them. This unexpected, chance meeting with people from another galaxy would change their lives, as well as the future of the Earth.