Months later, with the discovery of the Battlestar Ares and the location of the Lobo Negro Shipyard identified, the Celestial joined the Eternal and Prometheus in searching the Veil of Athena. Engaged by Cylon Basestars, a lucky shot made its way into the port side landing bay of the Celestial, detonating right above the cells that stored the Viper fuel were located. The massive explosion resulted in the complete destruction of the flight pod.The Celestial docked with the Lobo Negro station for repairs shortly thereafter. The majority of her crew transferred to the Battlestar Nova to continue the fight against the Cylons in the Second Battle of the Veil.