Point of Departure

Point of Departure is a science fiction novella by Vaughan Shelton, first published in 1956. The story follows Raymond Donner, an administrative officer at a research foundation, as he navigates a series of troubling events involving a missing colleague and a mysterious figure named Simon Kane. The narrative explores themes of technological innovation and ethical dilemmas surrounding scientific advancements, culminating in tragedy during a spacecraft's maiden flight powered by an ancient solar energy device. The novella highlights the dangers of manipulation and deception in the pursuit of progress.