Archipelago

Archipelago, originally known to Humankind as Boötes I, is a very small dwarf spheroidal satellite galaxy orbiting a barred spiral galaxy nicknamed the Cheese Wheel (originally known as the Milky Way). Its population is estimated at roughly one billion.

Most known people are humans descended from those scattered into Archipelago during the ancient Scattering. Only humans are publicly known to inhabit Archipelago, though genetic modification, cyborg bodies, mechanical bodies, rare sentient AI, and experimental technology create enough variation that unusual crewmates can move through society without immediately forcing the conclusion “alien” or “impossible.”

Habitable Worlds

Habitable planets are rare, numbering in the low dozens. They are often treated as paradises, gated communities, resort getaways, nature reserves, political prizes, or elite enclaves, and extended surface residence is available only to a select few.

Most people live space-bound lives instead: on stations, orbital habitats, ships, industrial moons, and other artificial environments. Space life is normal. Planetary life is exceptional.