I didn't want to be the first one complaining, since I'm the newest, but I also didn't want to leave you all day without any response. I am not really sure what the current arc/mission is, so I do not know if it needs to be completely abandoned or just altered. I'm not sure what you're investigating here.
I think taking another post or so and wrapping up this mission and completely changing gears is a great idea, though. There is a lot of baggage being hauled around right now. Something simpler and easier to understand, more straight-forward, would really help. Less NPCs involved that are not directly interacting with the PCs in ways that hold the attention of the PCs and the players. Intrigue can work as well, as long as it's intriguing for the players (and at least a bit for the characters).
Personally I would like to see something where the eight PCs are sent out on a task, and all of the NPCs (Luca, Allison, etc.) are left back on the ship/at the base as support. And probably send back (or just keep there in the first place) any of the PCs that aren't posting.