An autopilot is a mechanism on any type of computer-controlled vehicle which can pilot the vehicle along a pre-determined course without user intervention. Autopilots vary based on the type of vehicle, designers, and complexity of their function.
Uses[]
- Most Tau'ri aircraft and spacecraft possess an autopilot of some sort. Todd was able to write a subroutine for the Daedalus that directed the vessel to fly to a designated planet, locate a facility on the planet, then plot a collision course into it. (SGA: "The Lost Tribe")
- Goa'uld Death Gliders have a recall device which seizes control of the vessel in the event it is used without permission of the Goa'uld to whom it belongs. The autopilot sets a course to the homeworld of its owner at sublight speed, eventually cutting off the engines and leaving the vessel to drift; though it would take hundreds or even thousands of years for such a trip, the intention is to kill the pilot for their treachery rather than salvage the vessel itself. (SG1: "Tangent")
- Gateships have an autopilot which engages when the vessel is preparing to dock, taking control of the vessel and automatically landing it. (SGA: "The Lost Boys")
- Wraith Darts possess a similar autopilot mechanism, which also gives the pilot the option of releasing any passengers stored in the Dart's transport buffer. (SGA: "The Lost Boys")
- Destiny possesses a highly complex autopilot which has flown the ship across the universe for millions of years. The autopilot is capable of compensating for decreases in performance, plotting sophisticated slingshot maneuvers around gravitational bodies for course-correction purposes, and can determine when the ship needs to refuel and adjust its course accordingly. (SGU: "Air, Part 2", "Aftermath")