The self destruct sequence on Ceres Space Colony
A Self-Destruct System[1] (also known as a self destruct sequence[2], self-destruct mechanism[3], and self-destruction protocol[4]) is a mechanism, protocol or device that can cause an area, facility or even an entire planet to destroy itself within a set period of time. The purpose for this mechanism's inclusion in various places is unknown. It is possible that the mechanism is intended to be activated in cases of emergency, or to prevent dangerous technology from falling into enemy hands.
Self-destruction mechanisms or protocols are what trigger many countdowns in the Metroid series.
Locations with Self-Destruct Systems[]
- Tourian contained a self-destruct mechanism, activated immediately after the death of Mother Brain in Metroid: Zero Mission. In Metroid and Super Metroid, a Time Bomb is used instead.
- The Space Pirate Mother Ship, also in Zero Mission, contained a self-destruct mechanism activated by Mecha Ridley, whose eyes start blinking red shortly after its defeat.
- The weapon factory and Laboratory on Talvania featured self-destruct mechanisms, both of which were deliberately commenced by the Federation Force to destroy the nuclear weapons and Metroids within.
- Ceres Space Colony had a self-destruct sequence, which was activated by Ridley. In the Super Metroid comic, he activated the sequence on the colony's Main Computer.
- The BOTTLE SHIP had a self-destruction protocol, possibly put in place by the ringleaders as an insurance policy to cover up their crimes. After the death of MB, the Galactic Federation scheduled the BOTTLE SHIP's destruction. Samus returned before this in order to recover Adam's helmet. The self-destruct sequence is activated immediately after she finds it, interrupting a tender moment of reflection she was having.
- The Biologic Space Laboratories research station was equipped with auto-destruct explosives and a propulsion system. Early in the game the X Parasites attempt to trigger the explosives by disabling the Main Boiler coolant system, with Adam suggesting they may have done it in an attempt to assassinate Samus. Samus later attempts to trigger the explosives herself to in turn wipe out the X, but instead opts to use the propulsion system to intercept the orbit of SR388 which ensures the complete eradication of the species. Samus referred to the propulsion system as a "self-destruct mechanism" in a monologue.
Gallery[]
Self-destruct mechanism on the Space Pirate Mother Ship