16 JAN 3303
Professor Ishmael Palin, independent scientist and leading authority on xeno-biological research, has added his voice to the debate over sightings of mysterious spacecraft.
In a statement, Professor Palin said:
"I have no wish to be alarmist, and I can understand why the galactic superpowers have issued a somewhat noncommittal response. But suggesting that these craft may be of human origin, or the product of a hoax, rather stretches plausibility."
"To my mind, there is a clear visual connection between these mysterious vessels, the shipwrecks found in HIP 17862 and the Pleiades, the Unknown Artefacts and the Unknown Probes. And I believe we can draw only one conclusion: we are sharing the galaxy with an intelligent non-human species. We therefore have an obligation to discover as much about this species, and its intentions, as possible."
Independent engineer Ram Tah, who has been leading research into the Synuefe ruins, also commented:
"I share Professor Palin's view that these reports are of great significance. But attempts to communicate with these vessels have proved fruitless, as have efforts to discern their point of origin. We must learn more about these ships and whoever – or whatever – is piloting them."
16 JAN 3303
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:
Limapa Blue State Commodities
Uru Federal Interstellar
Union of Wolf 359 Labour
Coalition of Ngaliba
Lords of Ngaliba
Cemiess Commodities
Orrere Ring
Eravate Network
Eravate Life Services
Brani Federal Holdings
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:
HIP 111755 Gold Cartel
Iapodes Purple Dynamic Holdings
NLTT 6667 Republic Party
Green Party of CD-54 4840
Surya PLC
Crimson Transport Ltd
Future of Udegoci
Carpaka Central Industry
HIP 1419 Empire Consulate
Union of Kappa Phoenicis Labour
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.