The Issue: Currently, when the counter for npc lives left is too low, players can not accept hive missions. This is a problem because if pilots are not in the mission, they can't dock with the capital ships for reloads and repairs. Latecomers to a mission must rely on player capships and/or docking with a station.

Positives: Better player experience since there will be no need to wait for a mission to fail and reset to take the mission.

Negatives: New pilots may be disheartened if they join a mission and the mission fails shortly afterwards.

Other thoughts: This suggestion is unnecessary if we regain the ability to dock on capital ships while not in the mission.

+1 to either always allowing the mission to be taken and/or reinstating the ability to dock with hive skirm/deneb capships while not in the mission (if you have the requisite standings)

Can't hurt; fuck it why not.

+1. You could easily add a warning saying "we are close to losing this battle, accept at your own risk!", much like Deneb missions telling you when enemy players are involved.