-Packaged Communication-
ID: Matthias Gurz, paramilitary/Scout Force
I apologize for the late response I have only recently returned to transmission range. I was sent on a mission to scout the Omicron Beta nebula. I went with several dozen probes.
I dispatched each probe to scan a 100,000 kilometer radius. It would then fly in a comprehensive circle and transmit to me a thorough scan of the area. The system is rife with gasses of low to medium value. The radiation in the field is low-yield, and basic Radiation shields would keep all crew safe. However, the abundance of sharp asteroids would make extraction difficult. I could only detect one Outcast base in the system, 'Ruiz', built into one of the asteroids. It's turrets are awkward and erratic, due to the presence of so many asteroids. I have detected a planet, too, 'Elysium', which appears to be a liquid or gas giant.
Ruiz is still a threat, as it is the waystation for several Outcast patrols in the system. Scans detect it can hold anywhere from three to four score fighters and bombers. The asteroids would also make torpedo runs difficult. Acquiring 'Supernova Antimatter Cannons' would be our surest bet to removing the station, due to their speed and line-of-sight capability.
Removing Ruiz and installing our own defenses could, in theory, remove the Outasts long enough to secure the system. The nature of the asteroid field makes their capital ship fleet immobile.
This is the map I recorded. This is the course of action I would take:
I would secure the Sigma-19 jump hole, move a bomber/fighter wing to Ruiz for a total destruction run, and simultaneously dispatch a fighter/bomber wing to secure the Omicron Alpha jump hole. In preparation, we have transports and freighters full of Outpost building materials waiting in Sigma-19. When Ruiz is destroyed and both jump holes secure, the freighters and transports move to the Omicron Alpha jump hole and immediately assemble;
6x Weapons Platforms to be positioned on all sides of the jump hole
1x Outpost rigged with turrets and gas mining capabilities.
This would not only choke off a huge Cardamine smuggling run, but effectively end all Outcast activity in Sigma-19. Logistics to keep the base supplied would be an issue, but this is only a temporary solution, to gain a foothold in Outcast space. The proximity to Omicron Alpha would likely put strain on our defenses, but I have confidence in our success. Elysium is where the gold (metaphorically) is. Orbital scans showed oceans, as well as gasses and an abundance of alien organisms. I had to be constantly moving, however, due to the presence of Outcasts.
I will be out here for another 48 to 72 hours, and then I'll be home. Very much ready for a rest.