Having a Phd. doesn't quality W. Cayd MacKenzie for a coveted research position. Not understanding exactly why, he finds himself space-bound in a colony ship that is headed for trouble. Cayd's untested research becomes pivotal as they strive to find a way to save those who are initially resigned to their fate. Because of innovations he couldn't have imagined beforehand, Cayd finds himself in a quandary, and looks to the stars for a solution.