Starlight Salvage: Outpost Theta-9

Level: 3–5
Tone: Sci-Fi, Exploration
Environment: Derelict Space Outpost

Adventure Summary

A signal from a long-dead research station suddenly activates. The ping includes coordinates — and a payout offer. Salvagers across the sector are scrambling, and the PCs arrive first… but they aren’t alone.

Mission Objective

• Recover the station’s quantum core
• Escape before rival scrappers arrive
• Survive whatever woke inside Theta-9

Primary Zones

Entry Dock

• Emergency red lighting
• A dead crewman clutching a data slate

Stasis Laboratory

• Rows of cracked pods
• Something escaped

Core Chamber

• Anti-grav plates failing
• The core suspended in fractured containment rings

Encounters

1. Nullborn Echo

A psionic imprint generated from failed experiments.

2. Rival Scrapper Crew

Armed, desperate, and willing to negotiate until the core comes into view.

3. Reactor Shutdown

A timer event forcing the players to make rapid decisions.

Loot

• Quantum Core (quest item)
• Phase-Stitched Gloves (advantage on climbing + dex checks involving tech)
• Salvageable tech worth 500–800 credits