Tour - Hearthstone Lounge (Public Access)

Summary

Hearthstone Lounge (also known as the Forward Viewing Lounge) is a recreation facility aboard the USS Vesta that has much the same function as a mess hall. It can also be used for official functions such as receptions and dinners.

Additional Information

Location		Deck 13
Description		Hearthstone Lounge is located on deck nine and serves as the social center of the ship. Two large, double doors provide entry to the room from either end with turbolift access in the corridor just outside the entrance. Upon entering the lounge, most are surprised to find how un-Starfleet it appears. The entire room is usually configured to evoke the feeling and atmosphere of an ancient gathering space. This is achieved through a combination of holographic technology, available furniture, and actual artifacts. A large, circular stone hearth stands at the center with several chairs and benches arranged around it. Guests can enjoy a roaring (holographic) fire and the company of friends at almost any hour of the day or night. Beyond the inner ring, tables and individual seating of what appears to be wood and stone take up much of the rest of the room. The bar runs along the aft bulkhead which serves a number of alcoholic and syntheholic beverages. Meanwhile, an adjacent galley prepares food for the ship’s crew and passengers as well as any special guests the ship may be entertaining. Replicators are also available to supplement these services. Several large windows run along the forward bulkhead, spanning from close to the floor to up along the angled ceiling. These offer a spectacular view of space ahead of the vessel. Hearthstone Lounge can also be used for many official shipboard functions such as weddings, diplomatic gatherings, the change of command ceremony, birthdays and other parties for individual ship personnel, concerts, poetry readings, and funerals. In the event of low-power or emergency situations, the viewing lounge is a designated emergency environmental support shelter.