Part of the Bokha subsector.
Planet Overview:
Basian is a small, impoverished world located in sector 0202. With a Universal Planetary Profile (UPP) of C553344-9, Basian is a planet with a thin atmosphere and minimal resources, leading to a struggling and low-population society. Despite its challenges, Basian has a determined and resilient population that makes the most of their limited resources.
Environmental and Physical Characteristics:
- Atmosphere: Thin atmosphere (Type 5), which can support life but may require supplementary oxygen in certain areas or during extreme weather conditions.
- Hydrosphere: Limited surface water (Hydrographics 3), with small lakes and rivers that are often seasonally dry.
- Gravity: Low gravity (Type 3), which affects the physical development of the inhabitants and the construction of buildings and infrastructure.
Population and Society:
- Population: Approximately in the tens of thousands (Population 4), indicating small, scattered communities rather than large cities.
- Government: A fractured and decentralized government (Government Type 4), likely consisting of local councils or tribal leaderships rather than a single, unified authority.
- Law Level: Moderate law enforcement (Law Level 4), enough to maintain order but with limited resources to handle major criminal activities or civil unrest.
Economy and Technology:
- Economy: Poor economic conditions (Poverty indicator, 'Po'), with limited trade and few valuable exports. Most of the economy is based on subsistence agriculture and small-scale local industries.
- Technology Level: TL-9, which is relatively advanced compared to the planet’s overall development. This suggests some off-world trade or historical influence bringing in higher technology, though it is not widespread.
Notable Features:
- Agriculture: The majority of Basian’s population is engaged in subsistence farming, growing hardy crops that can withstand the thin atmosphere and poor soil quality. Small farms are often family-owned and operated.
- Settlements: Small, close-knit communities are scattered across the planet, often centered around water sources. These settlements are generally self-sufficient but face challenges such as water scarcity and soil depletion.
- Culture: The people of Basian are resilient and resourceful, with a strong sense of community and mutual support. Their culture emphasizes adaptability and making the most out of limited resources.
- Challenges: Basian faces ongoing challenges such as water scarcity, soil erosion, and limited economic opportunities. These issues are exacerbated by the planet's thin atmosphere and low gravity, which affect both agriculture and construction.
Adventure Hooks:
- Resource Discovery: Rumors have spread about a potential new resource deposit that could change the fate of Basian. The players are hired to investigate and confirm the existence of this resource, facing both natural and human obstacles along the way.
- Political Intrigue: The decentralized government of Basian means that local leaders often have conflicting interests. Players might be drawn into political intrigue, mediating between factions or uncovering corruption.
- Environmental Crisis: A sudden environmental crisis, such as a severe drought or a significant drop in atmospheric pressure, threatens the already fragile ecosystem of Basian. Players must find a way to mitigate the crisis and save the local communities.
- Technological Salvage: With limited technology available, scavenging old tech or trading for advanced equipment is a common practice. The players could be tasked with recovering valuable technology from ancient ruins or downed spacecraft.
- Cultural Exchange: The players are involved in a cultural exchange program, helping to introduce new agricultural techniques or simple technologies that could improve the lives of Basian's inhabitants.