Design
Herne are the classic ovoid, or egg shaped craft. A slightly larger, and pronounced ring encircles the widest diameter and contains everything from the crossover drive, weapons and defensive systems, to the sensors.
The interior is laid out in the classic tower block design.
The Herne has no artificial gravity and relies on constant acceleration if it is required. The long travel times are mitigated by two hibernation chambers.
At the stern is a hanger bay that carries a crow series lander.
Control Systems
The main control room is the now classic 'Round Table' layout. In the center is the main 3D holographic display. This is surrounded by 4 multi-purpose interactive display consoles. Around the outside are 4 more display consoles including the Chief's. A multitude of display screens surround the entire room covering the deck, walls and deckheads. This provides an unprecedented view of a star system.
An internal inertial compensation system is fitted enabling high speed vector changes and acceleration of 4g without the crew having to make use of crash couches.
Safety Systems
Due to space not being really empty. There are a multitude of microscopic particles and larger objects to contend with. The Herne class can deploy an armoured solar sail ahead of the craft when it is travelling at high R-Space speeds. The sail is kept ahead using lasers fired from the Herne. There are three of the umbrellas stored in the forward hold. This enables them to be stacked up in front. Should the lead one be damaged beyond repair it can be brought back in and recycled whilst another one takes its place. These umbrellas are an experimental system which the RSF hopes will enable their use on larger, colony craft.