Yeah but how much of that is metaphorical? Maybe they just don't want people out here. I've heard stranger theories.

[ Still, Kirk's got a point. He flips open his vortex manipulator and finds the clock. It hasn't been long by any other planetary standards, but if this air was toxic, who knew how long they could last... or most people could last anyway? Will this even affect him? ]

They give any kinda time table?