Galactic News

  • May 26, 3302
  • Galactic News: No Sign of Jaques Station

    Two weeks ago it was announced that Jaques Station, the galaxy's most famous travelling starport, would make an incredible long-distance jump from Gliese 1269 to Beagle Point. The proposed expedition received enthusiastic support from the galactic community, which contributed thousands of tonnes of fuel to the ambitious campaign.

    But despite setting off almost a week ago, no communications have been received from Jaques Station since it departed, and explorers at Beagle Point have reported no sign of the outpost. Dr Kaii, one of the leaders of the Distant Worlds Expedition, released the following statement:

    "I have received numerous updates from pilots in the vicinity of Beagle Point reporting 'no joy' on the Jacques jump. Members of the fleet have searched nearby systems, but there is no sign of the station. A full investigation should be launched as soon as possible."

    Kinsley Larson, an engineering specialist, offered this assessment to the Federal Times:

    "I can't say I'm surprised. A leap like that would be a remarkable feat for a starship, never mind a starport. Even if Jaques Station survived the jump, there are countless things that could have gone wrong and caused it to veer off course. It could be almost anywhere in the galaxy. Assuming it's still in one piece, that is."

    A number of Unknown Artefacts had recently been sold at Jaques Station, and the starport was experiencing technical issues at the time it departed for Beagle Point.

  • Galactic News: Weekly Democracy Report

    This report presents the latest data on democratic activity among the galaxy's minor factions.

    Here are the latest factions to hold elections:

    • Alpheus Silver Travel Group

    • Social BD+75 58 for Equality

    • Bodb Den Advanced Network

    • Vishtha Liberals

    • Vaka Citizens of Tradition

    • LFT 361 Independents

    • LHS 1918 Major Exchange

    • Gram Legal Industry

    • Xelabara Republic Party

    • Gliese 875 Allied Exchange

    Elections occur when two minor factions with a similar political structure resolve a conflict over ownership and influence within a system.

  • May 25, 3302
  • Powerplay: Incoming Update

    At 7.00 am tomorrow morning (GMT), the monitoring of powers' activities will go offline for a short period while the latest data is assembled. Pilots who operate for one of the powers should deliver any cargo or vouchers before this time to ensure their activities are registered.

  • May 24, 3302
  • Galactic News: Weekly Security Report

    This report presents the latest data on the security status of the galaxy's minor factions.

    Here are the latest factions to experience a lockdown:

    • Myrbat Partnership

    • Anali Ltd

    • BD+32 4747 Solutions

    • V1703 Aquilae Natural Limited

    • Yen Ti Liberals

    • LHS 1483 Advanced and Co

    • Fomovithi Corp.

    • Dall Universal Inc

    • Ixilalonta Galactic Commodities

    • 51 Arietis Allied and Co

    When a faction experiences a lockdown, the security rating of the system it controls temporarily increases and the system's wealth temporarily decreases. Bounty hunting activity can shorten the lockdown period.

    Here are the latest factions to experience civil unrest:

    • Noblemen of Samebito

    • Synteini Industries

    • Segoveduwa Blue Electronics

    • Ross 788 Crimson Energy Comms

    • Coalition of Bembarriosk

    • Gang of Aphra

    • Percunceni Dynasty

    • Liberty Party of Tz'utuls

    • AG+21 1754 Inc

    • Wi Democrats

    Civil unrest is the result of illegal activity. When a faction is affected by civil unrest, the standard of living in the system it controls temporarily decreases, as does the system's wealth. Combat missions and activities can bring civil unrest to an end.

  • May 23, 3302
  • Freelance Report: New Galactic Cooperative Denounces Violence in Neits

    As Federal and Imperial factions continue to fight for control of the contested Neits system, the New Galactic Cooperative of Worlds has issued a statement denouncing the violence. GalCop's representative, Jahena Yar Savor, addressed both sides of the conflict, and appealed for an end to hostilities in the spirit of cooperation and unity.

    "Our differences must not be settled through violence," said Savor. "This conflict may have begun because of ideals, but it has led to very real damage. Until both sides set aside their differences and their weapons, the citizens and business interests of Neits will continue to suffer."

    'Disc' Commander Felix Dyson - Radio Skvortsov

  • Galactic News: Weekly Economic Report

    This report presents the latest data on the economic health of the galaxy's minor factions.

    Here are the latest factions to experience an economic boom:

    • Ambivas Power Partners

    • Adeo Vision Industries

    • Delta Phoenicis Limited

    • i Bootis Central Limited Federation

    • LTT 15449 Dynamic Incorporated

    • Workers of Tau-1 Gruis Democrats

    • LHS 1380 Liberals

    • Chinner Emperor's Grace

    • Wuthielo Ku Progressive Party

    • Yhele Guardians of Tradition

    Boom is usually the result of consistent trade profit and completed trade contracts. When a faction experiences a boom, the wealth of the system it controls temporarily increases and trade missions completed in the system have double the effect on influence. The faction's influence may also increase. Booms typically last until they naturally expire.

    Here are the latest factions to experience an economic bust:

    • Left Party of Ch'i Lingo

    • Lacaille 9352 Silver Gang

    • Xihe Purple Brothers

    • Apurui General Co

    • HIP 13644 Clan Independent

    • CD-37 1883 Values Party

    • Sisina Travel Corp.

    • Posse of Vega

    • Kausalya Boys

    • Arouca Focus

    When a faction experiences a bust, the wealth of the system it controls is temporarily reduced and the faction's influence is temporarily diminished. Trade actions do not contribute to boom while a bust is active. A bust typically has to run its course before ending.

  • May 21, 3302
  • Freelance Report: Growing Demand for Halsey's Exploration Data

    A demonstration was held today at Leoniceno Orbital in Azaleach calling for the immediate release of all information submitted in response to former Federal president Jasmina Halsey's appeal for exploration data.

    "Something isn't right here," said one of the demonstrators. "Mountains of data were submitted, and within two days they were able to review it thoroughly enough to declare there was absolutely nothing of interest? This reeks of a cover up."

    Speakers at the rally demanded that the Azaleach Partnership, to which the information was submitted, release the data so its findings could be independently verified.

    "Science relies on openness, collaboration and peer review," argued one speaker. "It's an integral part of the process. Any conclusions based on secret data should be treated with suspicion."

    Commander Corlas

  • Galactic News: Weekly Expansion Report

    This report presents the latest data on expansion among the galaxy's minor factions.

    Here are the latest factions to have expanded into new systems:

    • Future of Misisture

    • GD 69 League

    • Comecab Interstellar

    • United German Commanders

    • Doolona Empire League

    • HIP 47110 Focus

    • Coalition of Narverdulli

    • Crimson Major Organisationl

    • Heget Gold Travel Inc

    • Democrats of Djendelis

    Expansions occur when a minor faction reaches a sufficient level of influence and there is a populated system within striking distance. Expansion is costly, so when a faction expands, the wealth and development level of the system it controls are temporarily reduced.

  • May 20, 3302
  • Galactic News: Malfunctioning Starports Restored with Meta-Alloys

    Recent reports indicate that a number of starports forced to suspend services due to Unknown-Artefact related interference have been restored to normality through the application of meta-alloys. Ackerman Market in Eravate, Gabriel Enterprise in Harma, Weyn Dock in 64 Arietis and Onnes Gateway in LFT 37 are all now reported to be fully operational.

    This development – a testament to the hard work of the pilots who have delivered meta-alloys to the affected stations – will no doubt bring hope to those still affected by the technological plague.

    The starports currently closed as a result of Unknown-Artefact related interference are:

    • Lave Station, Lave

    • Ising Dock, 109 Piscium

    • Fozard Dock, HIP 19934

    • Irens Dock, Manite

    • von Bellingshausen Port, Almar

    • Haack Gateway, Halbangaay

    • Gurragchaa Gateway, Warkushanui

    • Korolyov Hub, Arawere

    • Lobachevsky Outpost, Pic Tok

    • Carter Port, Rhea

    Meanwhile, the following starports continue to experience technical issues:

    • Alexander Freeport, HIP 18843

    • Bloch Vision, Loperada

    • Love Ring, Evejitaka

    • Robigo Mines, Robigo

    • Saunders's Dive, Wolf 1301

    • Skvortsov Orbital, 63 G. Capricorni

    • Kooi Gateway, HIP 93377

    • Jaques Station, Gliese 1269
  • Freelance Report: Attempt to Sabotage Jaques Station Thwarted

    Three individuals carrying pamphlets identifying them as members of 'The Hands of the Architects' have been apprehended at Jaques Station. Starport personnel discovered the individuals attempting to modify the station's frame shift drive.

    A station spokesperson said: "The individuals are apparently members of a cult that arose shortly after Jasmina Halsey first claimed to have encountered super-intelligent, non-human life. Materials confiscated from the individuals indicate that they hoped to force a mis-jump during Jaques's forthcoming journey to Beagle Point. Apparently they thought this would give them an opportunity to meet Halsey's 'architects'."

    The would-be saboteurs are currently being held in custody at Jaques Station while starport personnel discuss possible extradition with nearby systems.

    Jaiotu

  • Freelance Report: Diamond Frogs Reportedly Attacking Traders

    A Radio Skvortsov commentator recently reported that extremists from the Eravate system were attacking traders running liquor and other legal narcotics to Skvortsov Orbital. The traders, who hail from all sides of the galaxy, were invited to the system by the Diamond Frogs to supply a party celebrating the return of the Distant Worlds Expedition. But recent reports indicate that the Eravate extremists are not the only ones preying on the traders.

    According to these new reports, some Diamond Frog ships are also participating in the piracy. Although there is no evidence that the Diamond Frogs' leaders or prominent Commanders are orchestrating or participating in these attacks, numerous pilots have reported being interdicted by hostile Diamond Frog vessels.

    One disgruntled Commander claimed that he had been interdicted multiple times by a number of different Diamond Frog ships. The pilot said: "The dingbats keep pulling me out of supercruise, and it's starting to get annoying! Don't get me wrong, the Diamond Frogs seem like good people, and I'll continue to deliver booze for those brave explorers, but they really need to get their house in order and put a stop to these shenanigans. It's casting a shadow on the whole endeavour."

    Commander Virgil Kyle

  • Galactic News: Weekly Conflict Report

    This report presents the latest data on conflict among the galaxy's minor factions.

    Here are the latest factions to experience a civil war:

    • Di Kun Crimson Public Systems

    • Pemotenil Mafia

    • Pemotenil Labour

    • San Saona Monarchy

    • Liberty Party of LP 751-1

    • Labour of Convoumia

    • MCC 378 Republic Party

    • LP 932-12 Dynamic Inc

    • Ch'in Yang Blue Partnership

    • Ch'in Yang Travel Exchange

    Civil wars occur when minor factions compete for control of major assets such as starports. When a faction is involved in a civil war, the standard of living, development level and security level in the system it controls are temporarily reduced. Combat activities can bring a civil war to an end.

    Here are the latest factions to experience war:

    • Kured Empire Assembly

    • Future of Misisture

    • Dark Echo

    • Angeli Imperial Enterprises

    • Gold Vision Commodities

    • Black Omega

    • NLTT 6667 Republic Party

    • LFT 1448 Independents

    • Ross 370 Federal Holdings

    • Confederation of Quikudi

    Wars occur when a minor faction invades a star system controlled by another minor faction. For the duration of the war, the standard of living, wealth level and security level in the disputed system are reduced. Combat activity between the two warring factions determines the outcome of the conflict. If neither faction succeeds in dominating the other, the war ends in a ceasefire.

  • May 19, 3302
  • Community Goal: The Battle for Neits

    "We were escorting a cargo ship to Watson Settlement. As we approached, we were intercepted by a pair of Vultures. They asked us to identify ourselves, but I don't think they were even listening – they just opened fire. The cargo ship took a hit, and then my wingmate bought it. I barely made it out alive."

    This testimony comes from the Neits system, which has become the site of intense conflict in the past 24 hours. Authorities in the system have confirmed that a Federal organisation known as Neits Jet Life Ltd has deployed ships throughout the system, and is attacking other vessels at the slightest provocation. Meanwhile, the GR 316 Silver Universal Group, an Imperial organisation, has despatched fighters to counter the Federal offensive.

    Neits has long been a contentious territory due to its position between Imperial and Federal space. The system has always tried to maintain its independence, resisting both Federal and Imperial overtures, but many suspected it was only a matter of time before one of the superpowers made a grab for power.

    Neither the Federation nor the Empire has made an official statement on the matter, with both Federal President Zachary Hudson and Emperor Arissa Lavigny-Duval remaining silent. But one inhabitant of the system was happy to provide an opinion on the situation:

    "It's no secret that tensions have been rising between the Feds and the Empire recently, so I guess conflict was bound to break out sooner or later. Trouble is, when the superpowers start throwing punches, there tends to be a lot of collateral damage. By the time they're done fighting, there might not be much of Neits left."

    Both Neits Jet Life Ltd and the GR 316 Silver Universal Group have promised to reward pilots who support their campaigns. The two factions have set out week-long operations to take control of the system, which will begin on the 19th of May 3302.

  • Galactic News: Let the Festivities Commence

    The Diamond Frogs have announced that their campaign to bring party supplies to Skvortsov Orbital in the 63 G. Capricorni system has been enthusiastically received by the galactic community. A huge number of deliveries were made for the explorers' gala, which will celebrate the achievements of the Distant Worlds explorers.

    A spokesperson for the Diamond Frogs released a brief statement:

    "We knew O'Malligan's would throw a fine party, but we're delighted to have received the support we needed to become the galaxy's number one party spot. Explorers will now spread word of this party to the galactic rim. We couldn't be happier."

    Pilots who contributed to the initiative are now free to collect their rewards from Skvortsov Orbital.

  • Community Goal: Battle Royale

    Don Antonaci, leader of the pirate organisation Wolf 359, has called on the galaxy's pirates to assemble for a faceoff against the Hutton Orbital Truckers and their allies. The pirate has proposed an 'anything goes' battle royale in the Wyrd system.

    Minelayers, thermal weapons, torpedo boats, long-range sniper ships – Antonaci is asking participants to bring their most devastating equipment to the ice rings, and to destroy any truckers they encounter. The truckers, meanwhile, have promised to send their finest to oppose Antonaci.

    The two parties have agreed that the pirates will fly Fer-De-Lances, Cobras, Vipers and Eagles, while the truckers will pilot Federal Assault Ships, Gunships, Dropships and Vultures. Pilots on both sides have been authorised to target anyone who piloting a larger vessel. Camera crews, which will be flying yellow haulers, are considered off limits.

    Antonaci released the following statement:

    "Despite my best efforts, these filthy truckers continue to trawl through space. We want all pilots friendly to the Don to help us teach these truckers a lesson. Bring your finest weapons, modules and upgrades, and show your support."

    The truckers' only response to Antonaci's challenge was: "Bring it on!"

    The campaign begins on the 19th of May 3302 and will run for one week. Pilots who support the operation will be generously reimbursed.

  • Galactic News: Palin's Appeal Concludes

    The Defence Party of Nespeleve has announced that Professor Ishmael Palin's appeal for building fabricators has been positively received by the galactic community. Large quantities of the equipment have been delivered to Wilkes Orbital over the past week for the construction of a new research outpost on Maia A 3 a. In a statement, Professor Palin extended his gratitude to those who supported the campaign:

    "I am extremely grateful to all the pilots who contributed to this initiative. Now that the necessary materials are in place, I will begin preparing for the next phase of the project. There is still much to be done before I am ready to depart for Maia A 3 a, but with luck it will not take long."

    "Of course, I don't intend to spend all my time on Maia A 3 a studying Unknown Artefacts – I have always enjoyed tinkering with starships, and I plan to spend some time doing just that!"

    Professor Palin is expected to depart for Maia A 3 a within the week.

  • Galactic News: Tantalum Appeal Comes to an End

    A spokesperson for the Wyrd Raiders has announced that its campaign for tantalum has been warmly received by the galactic community, resulting in a massive influx of deliveries to Gareth Edwards Park, the organisation's base of operations. In a succinct statement, the spokesperson thanked those who supported the campaign.

    "We are very grateful to the many independent pilots who helped us fulfil our commercial obligations. The tantalum will now be delivered to our various partners."

    Since the campaign began, rumours have persisted that the tantalum was destined for a group of independent engineers. The Wyrd Raiders declined to comment on the matter, citing a need to maintain their partners' privacy.

  • Galactic News: Weekly Democracy Report

    This report presents the latest data on democratic activity among the galaxy's minor factions.

    Here are the latest factions to hold elections:

    • LHS 535 Silver United Ltd

    • Green Party of Bhritzameno

    • Labour of HIP 22961

    • Ruganike Dynamic Partners

    • Dilga Empire Consulate

    • Tau-1 Gruis Citizens' Forum

    • Strianji Empire Group

    • Carener Electronics Inc

    • Union of Bolowala League

    • Chnumar Interstellar

    Elections occur when two minor factions with a similar political structure resolve a conflict over ownership and influence within a system.

  • May 18, 3302
  • Powerplay: Incoming Update

    At 7.00 am tomorrow morning (GMT), the monitoring of powers' activities will go offline for a short period while the latest data is assembled. Pilots who operate for one of the powers should deliver any cargo or vouchers before this time to ensure their activities are registered.

  • May 17, 3302
  • Freelance Report: Puritanical Organisation Targets Traders

    Earlier this week, private security firm the Diamond Frogs issued a request for liquor and other legal narcotics to be delivered to Skvortsov Orbital in 63 G. Capricorni for a massive party celebrating the success of the Distant Worlds Expedition. Independent traders throughout civilized space have responded enthusiastically to the appeal, but it would appear not everyone wants to share in the festivities.

    Recent reports indicate that an extremist temperance organisation from the nearby system of Eravate has been interdicting and destroying merchants attempting to deliver legal intoxicants to Skvortsov Orbital. Although only minor casualties have been reported, representatives from the Diamond Frogs have expressed concern about the social unrest in Eravate spilling over into neighbouring sectors.

    Commander Paramemetic, the Diamond Frogs' chief logistics officer, said that the security firm would take steps to ensure the safety of traders making deliveries. "It's a shame these puritanical troublemakers are trying to steal the spotlight from the explorers," he said, "but we'll make sure they don't interfere with the celebrations."

    'Disc' Commander Felix Dyson, Radio Skvortsov