Z-236 - "The Floating Platform"

Category: Z

Current Attitude: Docile

Containment Procedure:

• Z-236 must be kept under a ceiling at all times with no gaps larger than 5m x 5m.
• Z-236 should be stored with 500kg of mass on it, or otherwise tethered to the ground.
• No route to the sky measuring 5m x 10cm should be available to Z-236.
• Z-236 should be covered in a large cloth/tarpaulin/sheet in order to avoid looking at it directly.

Description:

• Z-236 is a large platform of an unknown material measuring 5m x 5m x 10cm.
• It is matte black and absorbs most light.
• Z-236 will always attempt to rise to an altitude of 70m above sea level and floats in an as yet undetermined direction.
• Z-236 can hold over 500kg of mass before it will be unable to rise. Further mass will cause it to descend at increasing speed.

Following the popularisation of “UFO hunting” in the United States, Z-236 was brought to the attention of the Foundation due to multiple sightings of a large square platform. Very few of these sightings were initially credible, but the Foundation eventually encountered the platform sighted during a [STAFF PICNIC].

Initial attempts to secure Z-236 were successful as it manifested no desire to avoid Foundation staff, leading many to believe it is non-sentient. Bringing it to ground level proved taxing as it resisted tethering force until over 5000 Newtons were applied at which point it began to descend. Upon reaching the ground, measurements and investigations occurred and it was brought into Containment.

The origin or “purpose” of Z-236 is unknown and staff are advised to be cautious to ensure it is not presented a flat ceiling lest it [BECOME STUCK]. However, once the limits of its capabilities were determined it quickly became a useful asset for accessing higher areas of Foundation storage and a popular asset for [UNAUTHORISED USE].