Martian Silk

"You'd think the hard part is milking the squids. Turns out, the hard part is finding the Vanguard Dynamics infiltrators and mounting their heads on a spike." ~CEO Samz Neamhan, Martian Arms

Milk of the Squid

Martian silk, renowned for its exceptional strength and elegance, is harvested from engineered cuttlefish native to Mars. The process begins with carefully catching and suspending the cuttlefish head-down, allowing their black, melanin-rich ink to flow freely. This biopolymer-based ink, comprising cephalopod-specific proteins, bioluminescent compounds, and complex polysaccharides, is then collected and mixed with alizarin crimson, chitosan, and glycoproteins to create a vibrant, carmine-colored solution. This mixture is subsequently fed into a fluid loom, where solvents, surfactants, and plasticizers facilitate the formation of an ultra-fine thread. The thread is then subjected to tritium bombardment, inducing radiolytic cross-linking that fortifies its molecular structure, yielding a nearly indestructible material. As the thread emerges, it is woven into the coveted Martian silk, prized for its lightweight, protective properties and exquisite texture. The finished fabric boasts a subtle, iridescent carmine sheen, attributed to the bioluminescent compounds and metallic ions incorporated during processing. With its unmatched blend of strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal, Martian silk has become an essential component of Martian attire, serving both as everyday garment and lightweight armor.