The Outbound Flight Project: A New Galaxy and Threat to Palpatine's Empire

Imagine an alternative universe where the famous Outbound Flight Project in the Star Wars universe succeeded. Without the intervention of Admiral Thrawn and the Chiss, the mission was to explore another galaxy, settle it, and then return to finish its journey. This scenario would significantly alter the course of events in Star Wars, leading to unforeseen consequences.

Length of the Mission

The answer to what would have happened depends on the extent to which the Outbound Flight Project ‘accomplished its mission successfully.’

Unlike the common interpretation that the mission would fail by getting destroyed by the Yuuzhan Vong, the true objective was to explore another galaxy and leave settlers behind before returning. If this scenario unfolded, Jorus C’baoth, one of the most influential Jedi, and a generation of brainwashed civilians and Jedi would return to the Star Wars galaxy around 17 BBY. This development would likely pose a serious problem for the near-absolute control held by the Empire under Emperor Palpatine.

Jorus C’baoth's Influence and Extensive Reach

Considered one of the most powerful Jedi of his time, C’baoth’s influence could go beyond the scope of a single person. He could dominate the minds of entire garrisons and even coordinate the minds of crew members on multiple ships. His power allowed him to exercise significant control over the minds of Jedi as well.

Was C’baoth’s mission solely to establish a colony? If he succeeded in dominating the minds of the colonists, it’s highly plausible that he could use this power to challenge Palpatine’s authority. This would create a dangerous power dynamic never before seen in the Star Wars galaxy.

Influence on Obi-Wan and Anakin

Observe the interactions between C’baoth and key characters such as Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker. During the Outbound Flight mission, C’baoth was given the authority to abduct children against their parents' wishes and train them as Jedi. Both Obi-Wan and Anakin initially disagreed but eventually acquiesced, suggesting C’baoth's influence might have been deeply felt.

On the night of the second day, Obi-Wan and Anakin confronted C’baoth during a disagreement with a father. Obi-Wan was immediately dismissive of the matter, following C’baoth's guidance to get some rest. Similarly, C’baoth’s apprentice, Lorana Jinzler, initially opposed his actions but later defended them, which implies a significant and insidious influence.

Implications for Future Events

Decades later, during Thrawn’s invasion, C’baoth’s manipulation of minds became evident when he clouded Luke Skywalker’s mind, causing him to become lethargic and ineffective. This alone demonstrates the extent of his power over Jedi and civilians alike.

Given C’baoth's abilities, even against the Yuuzhan Vong, the chances of his survival and that of the surviving crew members are high. With 18 Jedi defending the Myrkr mission, the likelihood of defeat against such a formidable force is low. Thus, the potential for C’baoth to challenge Palpatine's authority and reshape the galaxy is substantial.

Conclusion

Considering these factors, the Outbound Flight mission’s success could lead to a radically different Star Wars galaxy, one where the power dynamics shift and a new threat emerges. This hypothetical scenario opens the door to numerous new possibilities and challenges, transforming the narrative and perspectives of established characters and events in the Star Wars universe.