During last re-fit at starbase 104873 we were upgraded with a new PAR meter. Once back on patrol we approached the neutral zone and immediately noticed that the PAR levels were extremely low.
As the captain, I take full responsibility for this. I had assumed, because the warp engines were so powerful, it would be dangerous to operate them at anywhere near full capacity. As a result we had never exceeded 30% power. Although this worked well for a while it resulted in a slow degradation of the system over time.
Consequently we are now using the PAR meter to slowly raise power levels, and are now nearing 50%. Based upon the current readings it is quite likely that we will eventually raise levels to as much as 60 to 70 percent.
I must note in the log that we also experienced excessive nitrate levels approximately 2 months ago. Since the ship is only 13 months old we had assumed this was a normal part of the process. But when levels reached 30 ppm we decided it was time to intervene. Two months ago we began a regimen of reduced feeding and carbon dosing. Levels have now fallen to 12 ppm and we expect this to continue. We are no longer increasing the dose of vodka (currently at 5 ml daily) and we anticipate reducing this dose by 50% upon reaching desirable levels.
it should also be noted that the increased level of lighting has resulted in an increased consumption of alkalinity and calcium.. .....from 40/40 ml to 100/100ml daily. if this trend continues, it may be necessary to consider fitting the ship with a calcium reactor during our next starbase visit.
Captain out.
As the captain, I take full responsibility for this. I had assumed, because the warp engines were so powerful, it would be dangerous to operate them at anywhere near full capacity. As a result we had never exceeded 30% power. Although this worked well for a while it resulted in a slow degradation of the system over time.
Consequently we are now using the PAR meter to slowly raise power levels, and are now nearing 50%. Based upon the current readings it is quite likely that we will eventually raise levels to as much as 60 to 70 percent.
I must note in the log that we also experienced excessive nitrate levels approximately 2 months ago. Since the ship is only 13 months old we had assumed this was a normal part of the process. But when levels reached 30 ppm we decided it was time to intervene. Two months ago we began a regimen of reduced feeding and carbon dosing. Levels have now fallen to 12 ppm and we expect this to continue. We are no longer increasing the dose of vodka (currently at 5 ml daily) and we anticipate reducing this dose by 50% upon reaching desirable levels.
it should also be noted that the increased level of lighting has resulted in an increased consumption of alkalinity and calcium.. .....from 40/40 ml to 100/100ml daily. if this trend continues, it may be necessary to consider fitting the ship with a calcium reactor during our next starbase visit.
Captain out.
