Exploring the Fate of the Library on Ernest’s Planet in Stargate SG-1

One of the more intriguing mysteries in the Stargate series involves the fate of the library on Ernest’s planet in the Metalwork System. After the initial discovery, the gate could no longer be used, leading to the question of whether or not a spaceship was sent to investigate the fate of this library. In this article, we will explore several potential scenarios and provide a detailed analysis of why a spaceship might or might not have been used to investigate the library.

Real World Explanation

In the real world, the answer is quite straightforward. The Metalwork planet and the library hosted by Stargate SG-1 did not factor into future storylines, so it was not revisited. This absence of further discussion suggests that the event was either not deemed important or was simply passed over for the sake of moving the plot forward.

In-Universe Analysis

For fans of the show, several in-universe scenarios present themselves regarding the fate of the library on Ernest's planet.

Scenarios

1. No Priority

When the SG-1 team left Ernest’s planet, the structure was collapsing. A logical assumption may have been that the gate and the building had either fallen into the ocean or were otherwise irreparably damaged. By the time Stargate Command had access to regular ships for exploration, those ships were typically engaged in critical missions such as Earth’s defense, offensive missions against Goa'uld, Replicators, or the Ori, or rescuing SG-1 from various challenges. Diverting a ship to check on the planet would not have made sense, as it was almost always desperately needed elsewhere.

2. Not Mandatory

By the time the Ancients granted Earth its own ships, exploring the library might have been redundant. The Asgard, a race partners with Earth, were providing technology and information upgrades. The library, while containing valuable cultural and historical knowledge, might not have provided the critical information that Earth needed for its defense. According to the Asgard, the knowledge might have been shared freely, rendering a dedicated exploration unnecessary.

3. Off Screen Event

It is entirely possible that the library's destruction occurred off screen. A ship could have been diverted to investigate if it was already in the area. Upon confirmation of the library’s destruction, the ship would have reported to Stargate Command. Such an event is not unprecedented, as many plot points in Stargate SF-1 occur without extensive detail.

The Fate of the Library

Based on the available evidence, the library on Ernest’s planet was indeed destroyed. This explains why the Stargate could no longer be re-established. Without the library to serve as a stable connection, the path back to Ernest’s planet through the Stargate was permanently severed.

Exploration in Stargate SG-1 Timeline

Another reason for not exploring the library involved the technological limitations of Earth during the initial discovery of Heliopolis. At that time, Earth was a newcomer to the galactic stage and had limited knowledge of other advanced species such as the Asgard and Ancients. Translating Ernest's notes and exploring the meeting site would have taken considerable time and effort, especially if the notes were incomplete or if the meeting site was less valuable in providing critical information.

By the time Stargate Command had reliable spaceship travel, the Ancient knowledge had already been downloaded into a team member, making further exploration of the library less urgent.

Conclusion

The fate of the library on Ernest’s planet remains a point of intrigue in Stargate SG-1. Whether it was a logical assumption of the collapse, a redundant exploration due to the Asgard's support, or an off-screen event, the library's destruction aligns with the necessity of plot development and the constraints of Earth's exploration capabilities.