In this case, the addition of time travel theoretically enables the scientists to observe primitive humans in the past.
Anthropologists Ben Hazard and Ed Stone join a top-secret project which uses a time-travel device, affectionately known as "the Bucket", to return in time to observe human development throughout history.
Travelling back and forth in the past, Hazard and Stone happen upon an extraordinary event in France, over 25,000 years ago, near a cave where Cro-Magnon remains were found in their time.
Using fantastic technology they shape the land into a primitive home, complete with artifacts such as stone tools.
It tells him that he has solved part of the puzzle, and for the rest he must press a hidden button and stand outside.
Humans arose on a distant world, discovered faster-than-light space travel, carved an empire for themselves, and were then almost exterminated by the Enemy, a race of vicious monsters.
It needed a "transfusion" of new ideas and ways of thinking, in order to survive the inevitable future encounter with the Enemy.
After that, they will begin the process of giving the ship's technology back to humanity, so they can be ready for the battles to come.