Pollution
My pager summons me to the Master Observation Analysis Lab (MOAL).
Based on the theory telescopes will see pollution in the atmosphere of planets which have, or had, industrial life as we might know it, MOAL is analysing photographic images of planetary atmospheres.
Initially we agreed upon three levels of pollution, Minimal, Moderate, High, which are yet to be calibrated into sub-levels.
“We’ve found the very first planet with measurable readings and in the High zone,” calls the Manager to me excitedly. “We need you to verify.”
“Wow! Fantastic! How many light years away?”
“It’s in our own solar system!”
From Guest Contributor Barry O’Farrell
Barry is an actor living in Brisbane, Australia. Barry’s other stories can be found on Cyclamens & Swords, 50 Word Stories and of course here at A Story In 100 Words.
Please support the site by purchasing one of my books on Amazon. Check out Quitting The Grave, a murder mystery set on the Oregon Trail. Plus, don't forget my other books: They Both Loved Vonnegut, Ahab's Adventures in Wonderland, and Picasso Painted Dinosaurs.