Nova Bomb

A Nova Bomb is a type of nuclear fusion weapon strong enough to momentarily disrupt gravitational fields. When detonated inside a star, such a weapon can cause a nova. They basic mechanism of the weapon is not fully understood except by a handful of scientists working for the Gudersnipe Foundation. Various other civilizations have attempted to reproduce the technology, and have been met with very harsh reprisal from the Foundation.

Production

Nova weapons are extremly difficult to produce. Building them requires either the use of super-heavy elements, or a level of precision not easily achieved. Building a simple "nuclear-type" nova weapon follows the same basic principles of an implosion bomb, but requires the uranium be replaced with an lement whose atomic weight nears 5,000. While such materials can be produced in super coliders and very small quantities (typically measured in atoms per year), this method is still beyond the reach of most civilizations.

The second method, using extreme precision, requires a fairly standard conventional atomic weapon (N1.5) manufactured to extremely precise standards (far beyond those of even N2). A more potent fuel source is still required than plain old uranium, and the fuel is mixed as an alloy. Nanoscale robots must assemble both the primary and secondary from the molecular level. Only the absolute purest materials can be used, even a single errant hydrogen atom can potentially cause the bomb to "fizzle".

The key to a successful detonation also lies in the sequence of the detonators, which must compact the core in a very particular way so that exotic forms of matter are created in the center. The sequence itself, called a "nova formation" is also a closely-guarded secret.

Deployment

Nova weaponry is very seldom issued within the Foundation. If used in a fleet, typically only the flagship will carry them. When placed in the field, these weapons are used either as a deterurent or in areas where it is felt strategic weapons may be needed. In the entire history of the Foundation, only a very small handful of nova bombs have been used.

A nova weapon is among the few ship-board weapons that cannot be deployed at the captain's direct order. It is the only weapon that requires the agreement of four separate officers: the captain, first officer, tactical officer, and arms master. An admiral cannot directly order a nova launch, and the captain can lawfully disobey a direct order to fire a nova weapon. A captain cannot, however, lawfully disobey a direct order NOT to launch one.