The recorded knowledge of the crew explained their vast array of skills. They were the best of the human species, supplied with the most sophisticated ship and sent off to find new technology to aid the war effort. McGellen herself was a mere add-on, "Test this new computer while you're out there, kill two birds with one stone. Makes the whole thing more palatable to the paying public." More palatable than sending the best and brightest on a decades- long fool's errand.

Not less risky though.