The Orbit-Adjusting Orbiter

The orbital platform designated “Orbital Station Nine” was orbiting in low orbit around Orbital Body Designate Omicron-Orbis. Too low, in fact.

“Define ‘too low,’” ordered the Captain.

“Lower than our assigned orbit, sir,” reported the Orbital Navigation Officer.

“Higher than not orbiting. We’ll need the orbit-adjusting orbiter, sir.”

“Which orbiter is that, Lieutenant? The one designed to adjust orbits?”

“Yes, sir, the very same one.”

“Deploy the orbiter.”

“The orbital bay doors are jammed, sir.”

“Define ‘jammed.’”

“They won’t open, sir.”

“Deploy the orbital bay door unjammer.”

“Sir? We don’t have one of those.”

“Yes, of course we don't. Recommendations?”

“We should assign a technical crew to fix the orbital bay doors, and then deploy the orbiter, which will correct the station’s orbit.”

“Excellent. I’ll be in the Captain’s Lounge if you need anything.”

“I need authorisation to assign the crew, sir.”

“Indeed you do, Lieutenant. And I authorise that authorisation. And I give you, Lieutenant, the authority to authorise any other unauthorised matters needing authorisation while I’m in the lounge. Understood?”

“Yes, sir. Thank you, sir.”