Rematerialisation

(aka Actualizing the Quadro-Anchor)

This is the third stage in a space-time journey. The operator should activate the Synchronic Feedback Checking Circuit (to ensure that the TARDIS does not arrive upside down) and the Multi-Loop Stabilizer (to ensure the TARDIS lands firmly on the nearest surface). The Safety Precaution Selector prevents a TARDIS from materializing in a dangerous location (see Safety Precaution Selector). If the Time Lock function slips then the Landing Circuit will jam and a TARDIS will end up materializing in space - possibly in orbit of the planet it was supposed to materialize on. TARDISes can be forced to materialize at a specific location by an outside force using a navigational guidance distorter tractor beam. Alternately if a TARDIS's Dynamorphic Generators are malfunctioning then it is possible for its course to be deliberately deflected by another TARDIS.

When the TARDIS reaches the correct location in the Vortex it exits the wormhole. Right before materialization in a time zone whose History is uncrystallized the TARDIS releases a burst of Artron Energy to collapse the infinite number of possible timelines into a single crystallized timeline. A TARDIS also emits a burst of Tachyons right before materialization. Because of this, it is possible for lesser species to detect the imminent materialization of a TARDIS by watching for peaks in a warp oscilloscope, or gravity dilation meter. Shields rated at 7,300 megazones or a soft Icaron Field can prevent materialization, as can strong temporal, magnetic, or gravitic fields. Weather control systems, such as a Graviton, can pull a TARDIS off course. If a fault occurs that prevents a TARDIS from re-materializing, then the TARDIS will initiate an Emergency Stop.

For the non-time sensitive, re-materialization looks rather simple. A TARDIS fades into view accompanied by the sound of the Dimensional Stabilizers. Many Exo-Shell disguises are equipped with a Materialization Beacon which indicates re-materialization. Those who are fully time sensitive can see pseudo-metallic tentacles (the Dimensional Stabilizers) extend out of the Space-Time Vortex. Without the exterior shell the real world interface appears to be a biomechanical crustacean with several waving fins (the Scanner and other sensors). The TARDIS then seals the vortex breach by collapsing the interstitial mesh. Every Re-Materialization leaves a temporary space-time track in the form of residual Artron Energy in the Vortex. The TARDIS Scanner automatically collects data from the landing site's radio, computer, and satellite broadcasts. Analysis of any local cities is made as well. All of this information is stored in the Data-Bank. Using the Telepathic circuits, The TARDIS automatically compensates for traditional jet lag. However certain malfunctions in the TARDIS systems can cause crew members to experience extreme jet lag. The last stage in a TARDIS flight is Stage 387. This stage involves zeroing the co-ordinate differential, so that the automatic systems can reactivate the real-world interface. After this the Main Doors can be opened.

It should be noted that the accidental opening of the Main Doors after the Stabilizers have been extended but, before the displacement field has engaged and materialization is complete, can cause severe disruption to the dimensional stabilizers, possibly resulting in a miniaturized crew and TARDIS. It is also dangerous to overlap the materialization fields of two different timeships, as this will jam the materialization and cause severe damage to both vessels.

Since mass effects the shape of space time its possible that a TARDIS finds it easier to enter and exit the Vortex away from large masses like a planet. During rematerialization a TARDIS would emerge from the Vortex in an invisible insubstantial form somewhere above the destination. It would then settle on the ground (or inside a cave, ship, or building) and fully materialize in solid form. Minor faults in the visual stabilization circuits would explain the numerous scenes of the TARDIS hanging or traveling through normal space. It would also explain why the TARDIS is occasionally seen descending from the sky rather than appearing out of nowhere. Alternately the Vortex might look like space when the TARDIS is hanging in limbo (and thus not generating a wormhole tunnel). The physical descents from the heavens might simply be occasions where the TARDIS materialized in mid-air and hover mode was used than used to reach the surface.

Color Key

The following color code is used:

• Black: For information from the TV Series, including Dimensions in Time, and 1996 TV Movie.
• Blue: For information from the Novels and Audios including Target, Virgin, BCC, and Big Finish.
• Green: For information from 'licensed' reference sources such as the Technical Manual, Doctor Who Magazine, and the Role Playing Games.
• Red: For information from unofficial sources -The Faction Paradox series, behind the scenes interviews, author's speculation, and popular fan belief.

Copyright Will B Swift

You visited the Whoniverse at 9:25 pm BST on Saturday 4th September 2010