Under the command of Darth Vader, the Imperial Fleet dispatched probes across the galaxy to locate the Rebel Alliance. One such probe discovered the Rebel base on the icy planet Hoth. While patrolling near the base, Luke Skywalker was captured by a Wampa and was unable to investigate a fallen meteorite. However, using the Force, he retrieved his lightsaber, injured the beast, and managed to escape. As Luke drifted into unconsciousness from hypothermia, the spirit of his late mentor, Obi-Wan Kenobi, appeared through the Force and directed him to the swampy planet Dagobah to seek training from Jedi Master Yoda to become a Jedi Knight. Han Solo eventually found Luke and sheltered him inside the carcass of a deceased Tauntaun to protect him from the harsh weather until they were rescued the next morning.