Orphans of the Void

Orphans of the Void is a science fiction novel by Michael Shaara, first published in 1952. The story follows Captain Steffens and his crew as they explore the fourth planet of the Tyban system, uncovering remnants of an ancient civilization and the robots that once served its creators, the Makers. As the crew learns that the Makers have perished in a devastating war, Steffens faces a moral dilemma in revealing this truth to the waiting robots, who seek a new purpose in a now desolate world. This work explores themes of existence, purpose, and the consequences of advanced technology.