Type: emergency escape capsule

Escape pods are small emergency craft designed to detach from a larger vessel or launch from a planetary surface as a means of escape from a catastrophic event. As such, these pods feature a simplified design to allow for maximum ease of use. Usually, it's just a matter of pressing a control stud that initiates the launch cycle.

A pod is typically oriented to allow for simple chemical or explosive-based launch. This allows the pod to be ejected in the event of complete power loss in the mother ship. A series of exploding latches hurl the pod into space.

Some planets maintain a network of escape pods to flee from surface danger into the upper atmosphere. When at a lofty altitude, these pods then transmit distress signals. Some pods are used for interstellar travel, but these are rare.

Use of pods is usually restricted only to organic lifeforms -- not droids. As such these pods are also known as lifepods.