The universe is vast, dangerous and spectacular. There's so much out there it can make you feel small and insignificant, or it can make you want to see all of it, every star, every planet, every strange life form and every civilisation. And I had an oppertunity to see all that, though the circumstances aren't what I'd want for such an experience. I saw the universe in a time of war.

Many years ago Equestria was attacked by aliens. We all know that, and it wasn't that long ago that everyone who remembers it has passed on. But I know that that time will eventually come so I've decided to share my own experiences of those times, and the experiences of others, my friends, comrades and my superiors.

In the years since, Equestria has spread its wings throughout the universe, and this an account of how that all began.

- When We Saw the Universe by Captain Twilight Sparkle