# Book I: Piracy Preferred explained — The Black Star Passes

> Chapter companion for The Black Star Passes by John W. Campbell.

## What happens

The chapter introduces the mysterious attack on an airliner, which leads to the investigation by Robert Arcot and President Arthur Morey. They uncover the pirate's method through film evidence and begin designing the Solarite, a molecular motion ship, to combat the threat.

## Themes in this chapter

### Scientific Progress and Innovation

The design of the Solarite molecular motion ship showcases cutting-edge scientific advancement.

### War and Conflict

The pirate attacks and the subsequent arms race to counter them highlight ongoing conflict.

## Character check-ins

### Robert Arcot

Investigates the airliner attack and works on designing the Solarite.

### President Arthur Morey

Assists Arcot in the investigation and planning.

### Wade

Participates in the investigation and design discussions.

### John Fuller

Involved in the technical aspects of the Solarite design.

## Key lines

> The airliner was attacked without warning, leaving investigators baffled.

The airliner was assaulted unexpectedly, puzzling those looking into it.

_Sets up the central mystery of the chapter._

> Arcot and Morey studied the film to understand the pirate's technique.

Arcot and Morey examined the footage to figure out how the pirate operated.

_Key step in the investigation process._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_black_star_passes_se/chapters/book-i-piracy-preferred
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_black_star_passes_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_black_star_passes_se/chapters