STORY DESCRIPTION

In the not-too-distant future, a planet ripped from another star system is approaching our sun. It should not come closer than the orbit of Pluto, not close enough to be a danger, to disrupt Earth or the other planets, but it will be close enough for the chance of sending probes to investigate it and learn more about the Universe.

An automated signal is detected coming from the planet far older than Earth and the type that might once have supported life before it was torn from its orbit.

A manned mission is planned, perhaps to bring back the secrets of an advanced alien race, a civilisation now buried under its frozen atmosphere and long dead - maybe…

Whatever they found, it was never going to be straightforward.