Planets

Planets are large celestial bodies that are spherical in shape, typically orbit a star, and have cleared their orbital path of debris. They are formed around the same time as the star(s) they orbit. An average of around 3 planets exist per star system in the galaxy, indicating that they are not as uncommon as was originally believed. Explored and fully scanned planets are given official names by the Galactic Astronomical Union, whereas the rest are identified based on their Celestial Classification.

Planet types

Although all formed through the same process, planets are almost as diverse as the biological flora and fauna that might inhabit them. These planets can be categorised into several different types.

Planet type Description
Terrestrial Terrestrial planets (also commonly known as rocky planets) typically have sizes between twice and half that of Estra. They have solid cores usually consisting of iron and are primarily made up of a variety of materials, such as silicates, water and carbon. Some terrestrial planets are also surrounded by gaseous atmospheres made up of a variety of unique elements.
Neptunian (ice giant) Neptunian planets are relatively small ice giants, similar in composition to Jovian gas giants. There are also often other trace materials within their thick atmospheres, including water, ammonia and methane, resulting from their formation further away from their host star.
Jovian (gas giant) Jovian planets are massive gas giants larger than Neptunian planets. They feature large, dense metallic cores that trap and hold large quantities of gas around them. Although usually forming further out from their host stars, some may end up orbiting closer in. These “Hot Jovians” and their surfaces can reach thousands of degrees Celsius and can have a relatively considerable gravitational effect on their star just because of their close proximity to it. Hot Jovians are most often the first planets to be detected from beyond their star systems.
Rogue Rogue planets do not orbit a star. Although formed around one, they have, at some point in their existence, been ejected out of their stable orbit around the star and entered interstellar space. These planets are very difficult to identify and confirm.

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