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Earth

From Starship Simulator

NOTICE: This page is a Work in Progress as much of the lore/Development for the game is yet to be established.

Earth as seen from orbit

Earth (also known as Sol III) is the third planet orbiting the star Sol and the home world of the Human species in the Starship Simulator universe. As of the game's setting circa 2261 AD, it serves as the cradle of human civilization and the central hub for humanity's burgeoning interstellar activities.

Planetary Overview

Located firmly within the Sol System's Habitable Zone, Earth is characterized by conditions uniquely suitable for complex life as understood by humans:

  • Type: Terrestrial Planet (Earth Analogue)
  • Atmosphere: Dense, nitrogen-oxygen atmosphere supporting human respiration.
  • Hydrosphere: Extensive surface liquid water in the form of oceans, seas, lakes, and rivers.
  • Biosphere: Supports a vast and diverse ecosystem of native life.
  • Magnetosphere: Possesses a strong magnetic field protecting the surface from harmful solar and cosmic radiation.
  • Satellite: Orbited by one large natural satellite, Luna (the Moon).

Civilization and Infrastructure (2261 AD)

Earth remains the political, cultural, and population centre of humanity.

  • Government: It serves as the seat of the United Nations, the primary global governing body shown directing interstellar affairs.
  • Headquarters: The United Nations Space Fleet (UNSF) likely maintains its primary command headquarters either on the surface or in Earth orbit.
  • Orbital Infrastructure: Significant infrastructure exists in orbit around Earth and Luna, including space stations, orbital shipyards (likely where the Magellan Class vessels were constructed or commissioned), communication relays, and defensive platforms.
  • Lunar Presence: Permanent bases and facilities supporting scientific research and space operations are established on Luna.

Role in Interstellar Exploration

With the recent development of the Alcubierre Drive, Earth serves as the primary point of origin for humanity's expansion into the Milky Way galaxy.

  • Departure Point: Many United Nations Space Fleet exploration vessels begin their missions from the Sol System, typically departing from Earth orbit or nearby staging points.
  • Homeward Bound: Earth represents the ultimate destination to return to upon completion (successful or otherwise) of deep space missions. Returning successfully may result in a "hero's welcome."
  • Navigation Target: Earth is a default, easily targetable location from the Helm console using the Home key.

In-Game Representation

Within Starship Simulator, Earth is represented as:

  • A navigable destination within the Sol System.
  • A visually distinct planet with recognizable continents, oceans, and cloud cover when viewed from space or via Sensors. Developer notes confirm specific details like city lights and glaciation are part of its procedural generation or texture data.
  • The subject of holographic displays available on viewports from a starship (such as a Bridge's Holo-Display).
  • Represented symbolically by a topographical wood carving located in the A Deck corridor leading to the Bridge.