As a visiting researcher on the wondrous Beacon space station, Ray Barclay wants to make a real difference to a troubled world. His fuel enrichment work is set to usher in a new era of clean energy and distant exploration. When an incomprehensible disaster ravages the whole station beyond Ray's highly insulated lab, he knows the timing can be no coincidence. He also knows that his life depends on somehow contacting Earth for help. But exploring the dead station reveals some soul-crushing new truths. Before long, Ray realizes that Earth needs his help, too.