21 MAY 3302
A demonstration was held today at Leoniceno Orbital in Azaleach calling for the immediate release of all information submitted in response to former Federal president Jasmina Halsey's appeal for exploration data.
"Something isn't right here," said one of the demonstrators. "Mountains of data were submitted, and within two days they were able to review it thoroughly enough to declare there was absolutely nothing of interest? This reeks of a cover up."
Speakers at the rally demanded that the Azaleach Partnership, to which the information was submitted, release the data so its findings could be independently verified.
"Science relies on openness, collaboration and peer review," argued one speaker. "It's an integral part of the process. Any conclusions based on secret data should be treated with suspicion."
Commander Corlas
21 MAY 3302
This report presents the latest data on expansion among the galaxy's minor factions.
Here are the latest factions to have expanded into new systems:
Future of Misisture
GD 69 League
Comecab Interstellar
United German Commanders
Doolona Empire League
HIP 47110 Focus
Coalition of Narverdulli
Crimson Major Organisationl
Heget Gold Travel Inc
Democrats of Djendelis
Expansions occur when a minor faction reaches a sufficient level of influence and there is a populated system within striking distance. Expansion is costly, so when a faction expands, the wealth and development level of the system it controls are temporarily reduced.