Cirrus@Austlit

'In a small office of the Parkes Observatory, the scientific discovery of a lifetime breaks the Fermi Paradox. Syed has discovered proof of advanced extra-terrestrial life, a discovery that will shape the course of human history and change the world. But will the discovery be for the betterment of humanity? Syed is forced into the spotlight, his boring video game fueled life altered beyond his wildest dreams as he becomes one of Earth's most recognised celebrities. All he has to do is tow the party line and he will be rewarded with a life of luxury as the nations of Earth struggle to find a way to reach the stars, to find out what lies within the final frontier. But there are those that fear what will be discovered, that will pay any cost to stop humanity from venturing beyond the Milky Way. Stephen Fordham has been raised by his grandfather to fear first contact and will stop at nothing to show humanity the folly of its course. Syed is caught in a web of intrigue, pressured to choose between the life of fame that he always desired and his scientific integrity. As he struggles to decide what his life will stand for, construction on the first faster than light vessel, The Fermi, commences. Will he be strong enough to save the future? ' (Publication summary)

'The Fermi, the first human vessel capable of faster than light travel is complete. Its crew of six is ready to launch humanity into the galaxy, to find the extra-terrestrials discovered decades earlier by the scientist, Syed Abidi.

'Alina Koralev is the newest member of the crew. Brought in at the last moment, she is faced with a group that has prepared for years to undertake this venture and must overcome her own anxiety to ensure the success of the mission. As the crew's astronomer, she will be faced with difficult decisions that will shape the future, not only of The Fermi and its crew, but for Earth.

'Meanwhile, the Alien Resistance Militia, led by Stephen Fordham, faces its greatest challenge yet. How to stop contact with extra-terrestrials when humanity has already decided to reach out into the stars. Not only will the resistance face annihilation if it fails, but Stephen knows that they are the only hope humankind has of evolving into its full potential. Harnessing the power of other fanatics, Stephen will need to make a final, desperate gambit to ensure humanity remains alone in the galaxy.

'As the Earth enters a new paradigm of existence, its governments and most powerful corporations vie to capitalise on the opportunities that are presented. But little do they know the true power of the Sháik Varl. Will humanity discover the truth in time to safeguard their own future?' (Publication summary)