Test Pilot — John H. Carroll

Space is a dangerous place. New technologies need to be thoroughly tested before others can benefit from them. It is up to the members of the Skull Squadron to perform those tests, often losing their lives in the process.

Captain Gregg Johnson is the best the Skull Squadron has to offer. Experimental drugs, which make him faster and more responsive, run through his veins while he listens to the details of his next assignment. To help in the mission, he is given an exotic new suit with stars that float through the material. At his side rests his trusty hand cannon.

XOXO-13 is the designation for an experimental spaceship Gregg names Hugs and Kisses. In space, when a tiny thing goes wrong it becomes a very large problem. Gregg pushes the forbidden red button to escape the certain crash he is headed to.

Test Pilot is a short story.