von Neumann Satilites

[Loknar]

I've heard of this theory before, but only recently have I found a full definition. According to this SETI book, it might be possible that alien civilizations observe 'primitives' with very small probes. They're about the size of a bird, and their purpose is to explore, reproduce, and observe. They're self replicating, so if there is a flock of them, per se, a detachment flies off to an asteroid belt, mines some metals, brings some back to the flock, and assembles more, with different attachments flying off to star systems. They're solar powered, and they move by magnetic field or cosmic wind. Within a million years or so, with all the replication, they could explore a galaxy.

This might be possible to be put in SE4. Each one would be able to carry about five units of space, and use microcomponents, such as computers with .5, von-Neumann only repair ports and assembling tools, and a small radio. The AI would control them, the units self-replicating and spreading about the galaxy, collecting data and spotting hospitable planets. They could quite possibly evolve, thus being a form of life.

Another possibility is that these could assemble tiny outPosts, with about 50 units of space. They would be seemingly cloaked, as they are too small for radar; However, they use a different form of cloak, and an entire new component would be needed on ships to trace their locations, as well as a bay to depoy them. This would be very interesting for RPs.

Would this be possible to be made in SE4, or at least partly?

Also, I've noticed that there aren't really any cybernetic races in SE4 (MOO2 had Meklars, etc).