Space Patrol: Cybernetics, Nanotech, and Psionic Powers

A few science-fiction options are available to characters in the form of cybernetic implants, nanosymbiont treatments, and psionic powers. The rules for cybernetics are found in GURPS Ultra-Tech, nanosymbionts in GURPS Bio-Tech, and psionic powers in GURPS Psionic Powers.

Cybernetics

Cybernetics are a mature science, but the Space Patrol does not provide implants with two exceptions. Replacements are provided for body parts lost in the line of duty: bionic arms or hands, ears, eyes, legs, and vital organs (but not Boosted Heart). Neurotherapy implants are used to treat psychological and neurological disorders. Any officer who receives a cybernetic replacement is also given a biomonitor implant. Elective implants are against regulations.

Nanotech

While most genetic modifications are illegal, some permanent nanosymbiont treatments are permitted. These include Level 1 and Level 2 Panimmunity, Nano-Bacteriophages, Carcinophages, Guardians, Lung Cleaners, Pore Cleaners, Virus Hunters, and DNA Repair. Temporary treatments of all of these are available in Patrol sickbays; regulations limit the duration of such treatments to the expected length of each mission. See GURPS Biotech for details.

Psionic Powers

Psionic powers exist in the setting, but they are rare and poorly understood. Any character with points in psionic abilities must take Unusual Background (Psi) [10]. Civilian attitudes toward psionics are mixed. It is illegal to use psionic powers on a human being without a warrant or informed consent, with provisions for self-defense. Using psionic powers in the commission of another crime counts as an aggravating factor during sentencing, but it is not a charge in itself.

Psionic powers follow the rules in GURPS Psionic Powers. The only powers available are Ergokinesis, ESP, Psychic Healing, Psychokinesis, and Telepathy. The Spirit Communication ability of ESP is unavailable.

The Space Patrol does not issue psi-tech, with the exception of the Blocker and Muffler psi-drugs for dealing with criminal psis. See GURPS Psi-Tech.