The third panel is actually a very complicated effects shot involving a total of five different layers. The top-most is the strip template. Beneath that is the screen image with the center cut out. Beneath that is the starship model with the background behind it cut out. Beneath that is a transparent template holding the engine glow. And finally, beneath all that is the starfield. Yes, this is the kind of effort I put in just to make sure you have a cool strip.
All starships are equipped with a plot device. It makes sure that things happen when dramatically convenient.
“Status update” will never mean the same thing again now that we’re firmly entrenched in the Facebook Age.
Sandstorm illustrates how finely she can control her powers here. I know it looks like Dr. Yelu is puking, but really he’s just full of sand.