Astronomy

Constellations of the Gothan Night Sky

The vast expanse of the night sky has long captivated the human imagination. From the primitive civilizations of yore to today's advanced societies, one consistent practice stands out – the grouping of stars into recognizable patterns, known as constellations. However, this practice isn't merely about observing the sky. The significance of constellations lies in their rich history and their reflection of human culture, beliefs, and myths.

Origins in Antiquity

The partitioning of the starry expanse into specific regions, each marked by a set of stars, is a practice that dates back to ancient times. The origin of both the patterns and names attributed to these constellations is believed to lie in the systems prevalent among primitive civilizations. The ways in which stars were grouped and named provides valuable insights into the meteorological, religious, and mythological beliefs of these early societies.

From Constellations to Asterisms

While the larger star patterns are referred to as constellations, there exists a subset known as asterisms. These are smaller groups of stars that are part of larger constellations. Just like constellations, asterisms, as well as individual stars, have been given names throughout history. Often, these names echo meteorological phenomena or encapsulate the religious and mythological beliefs of the societies that named them.

Alir

Alir, the luminous heart of our cosmic domain, reigns supreme in its fiery splendour. An ever-burning beacon, it casts its radiant embrace across the vast celestial tapestry, bringing warmth, light, and life to the farthest reaches of its dominion. Each day, Alir rises, not just as a star but as an emblem of hope, continuity, and the undying spirit of the cosmos.

Its fiery visage, a cauldron of churning plasma and magnetic storms, paints the sky with hues of gold and crimson, manifesting both the gentleness of dawn and the fury of a solar flare. Alir's power is not just the visible brilliance that meets the eye; its influence stretches far and wide, its gravitational embrace holding planets, moons, and asteroids in a harmonious cosmic ballet.

Yet, for all its blazing might, Alir is also a beacon of life. It is the architect of life on Gotha, the whisper of evening winds on Nemon, and the touch of warmth that fights Roth's icy chill. Its rays penetrate the deepest oceans of Samler and dance upon the stormy face of Numor.

It's said that every flare, every sunspot, tells a tale older than the planets themselves—a chronicle of creation, evolution, and the eternal cycle of birth and rebirth. As Alir continues its aeons-long journey, it remains a testament to the beauty and power of nature, a reminder of our humble place within the grand theatre of the universe.

Star	Alir
Class	G-type Main Sequence Star (G2V)
Mass (Earth masses)	333,000
Radius (km)	696,340
Rotation Period (hours)	Approximately 609.12 (at the equator)
Ocean Data	N/A
Orbital Data (Period)	N/A
Semi-major Axis (AU)	N/A
Eccentricity	N/A
Axial tilt	Approximately 7.25° (to the ecliptic)
Inclination (°)	N/A
Max temperature (°C)	Approximately 15 million (at the core)
Average Temperature (°C)	Approximately 5,500 (surface)
Min Temperature (°C)	Approximately 4,000 (in sunspots on the surface)

Alirian Inner System

Planet Numor Samler Nemon Gotha Roth Image 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Class Sub-giant Gas Planet Water World Warm Rocky Gothan Frigid Rocky Mass (Earth masses) 3.42 6.07 0.18 1.00 0.37 Radius (km) 8,812.60 13,760.00 3203.00 6,371.00 4,714.00 Rotation Period (hours) Tidal Locked 15.58 268.80 24.00 152.40 Ocean Data N/A Water Depth: 77.984 km N/A Water Depth: 7.9 km N/A Orbital Data (Period) 28.4 days 107 days 173 days 365 days 3.09 years Semi-major Axis (AU) 0.18 0.44 0.61 1.00 2.10 Eccentricity 0.00 0.05 0.00 0.03 0.00 Axial Tilt 90.00 5.23 21.10 10.10 5.20 Inclination (°) 0.82 0.72 0.07 -0.78 -0.40 Max Temperature 623.00 235.00 109.00 46.70 -114.00 Average Temperature 228.00 197.00 91.20 14.76 -173.00 Min Temperature -43.00 149.00 38.40 -89.20 -273.00 Atmospheric Pressure (atm) 1224.90 52.72 0.12 1.00 0.15 Atmosphere Composition % (CO2) 74.27 48.32 89.50 0.04 92.00 Atmosphere Composition % (SO2) 10.95 0.59 2.05 0.00 0.00 Atmosphere Composition % (H2O) 7.58 45.64 0.00 0.00 0.00 Atmosphere Composition % (N2) 7.17 5.42 8.25 78.94 7.95 Atmosphere Composition % (CO) 0.04 0.03 0.50 0.00 0.00 Atmosphere Composition % (Ar) Trace Trace 0.05 0.01 0.03 Atmosphere Composition % (Ne) Trace Trace 0.05 0.01 0.03 Atmosphere Composition % (Kr) Trace 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Atmosphere Composition % (He) 0.00 Trace 0.00 0.00 0.00 Atmosphere Composition % (O2) 0.00 0.00 0.00 21.00 0.00

Inner system Orbits

Numor

Artistic rendition of the high speed cloud banks of Numor, host to rains of pulverised glass shard rains at supersonic speeds.

Numor, colloquially termed the "Vigilant Eye of Alir," serves as the innermost planet of its system. Characterized as a sub-gas giant, Numor is tidally locked, maintaining a constant face towards its star. This unique positioning is highlighted by a prominent sun-facing vortex within its atmospheric gas clouds, resembling a vast, watchful amber eye, a feature that has become emblematic of the planet's identity.

Due to its tidally locked state, Numor experiences extreme environmental conditions. The side facing the star, known as the day side, is subjected to continuous solar radiation, leading to exceedingly high temperatures. This intense heating contributes to the development of extremely high-velocity winds, capable of reaching speeds that would be destructive to any terrestrial machinery exposed to them.

Contrary to expectations of a freezing night side, the dark side of Numor remains significantly warmer than anticipated for a region in perpetual shadow. This anomaly is attributed to the planet's rapid atmospheric circulation, which efficiently redistributes heat from the day side to the night side. Such dynamic atmospheric behaviour prevents the temperature on the dark side from dropping to extreme lows, maintaining a surprisingly mild climate despite the absence of direct sunlight.

Numor's atmospheric phenomena include not only fierce winds but also unusual precipitation patterns. The planet is known for what could be described as "shredding rains," consisting of crystals rather than liquid. These crystals likely form in the upper atmosphere as a result of the complex interplay between the atmospheric chemistry and the extreme thermal gradients. Propelled by the planet's powerful winds, these crystal rains contribute to an environment that is both visually striking and physically hazardous, capable of causing significant erosion or damage to any surface they encounter.

The distinctive cloud bands visible on Numor are not only striking visual features but also indicators of the planet's vigorous atmospheric dynamics. These bands may play a crucial role in the cycling of atmospheric materials, including the formation and distribution of atmospheric crystals. The interactions within these cloud bands highlight the exotic chemistry of Numor, offering insights into atmospheric processes that are distinctly different from those of Gotha.

Samler

Rendition of Samler's worldwide oceans, featureless and in an every stormy condition.

Samler, an enigmatic inner planet, is enveloped entirely by a vast, boundless ocean. Its designation as a water world is particularly intriguing given its proximity to Alir, which typically would result in high surface temperatures sufficient to evaporate any surface water. However, Samler defies these expectations with its unique atmospheric and geological characteristics that preserve its oceanic surface.

The planet's atmosphere is notably thick and dense, composed of heavy gases that exert substantial pressure on the surface. This high atmospheric pressure plays a crucial role in preventing the ocean waters from boiling away into space, despite the intense heat from the nearby star. The oppressive nature of the atmosphere not only maintains the liquid state of the ocean but also an advanced greenhouse effect, trapping heat efficiently but also preventing the thermal escape of water vapor.

Beneath the azure depths of Samler's ocean lies an intriguing geological feature: a dense layer of high-pressure ice, known as ice VII. This ice form exists only under extreme pressures, which are present due to the significant depth of the ocean and the heavy atmospheric pressure. The ice acts as a barrier between the ocean and the planet's rocky core, further insulating the planet's internal heat and stabilizing the ocean temperature.

The existence of such a high-pressure ice layer is critical in understanding how Samler retains its vast oceans despite its proximity to Alir. The ice layer not only prevents the ocean from boiling off but also could play a role in any geochemical processes that occur on the ocean floor, potentially influencing the overall chemistry of the ocean.

Nemon

Barren ochre landscape of Nemon, rugged and cratered. only a weak wind from its thin atmosphere erodes the planet.

Nemon, once conjectured to have been tethered to the water world Samler as a moon, now orbits independently due to the complex gravitational interactions within its celestial system, influenced notably by the nearby bodies, Alir and Tyr. This significant orbital shift has positioned Nemon as a solitary planet, presenting an environment markedly inhospitable to life.

This planet is characterized by an extremely thin atmosphere, with a pressure only one-tenth that of Gotha's. Such a sparse atmospheric layer provides minimal retention of heat and allows virtually no capacity for sustaining any form of water cycle. The scant atmosphere results in a surface exposed to the harshness of space, including extreme temperature fluctuations and high radiation levels, which preclude any conditions that might support life.

The minimal atmospheric pressure on Nemon is significant not just for its impact on the surface conditions but also for its scientific interest. It offers a clear example of how planetary bodies can drastically differ in their atmospheric composition and the subsequent effects on their environmental conditions. The stark nature of Nemon's atmosphere and surface makes it an ideal subject for studies related to planetary geology and atmospheric science, particularly in understanding the processes that lead to atmospheric thinning and loss.

Despite its barren state, Nemon's history and evolution remain of keen interest to astronomers and planetary scientists. The planet's journey from a potential moon to an independent planetary body provides valuable insights into the dynamic and sometimes violent nature of planetary system development.

Gotha

our cradle of life, blossoms as a verdant oasis amidst the vastness of space. Its lush landscapes and teeming oceans brim with life, nurturing and sustaining every breath we take.

Roth

Carbon dioxide geysers of Roth, forming tall columns of rocky debris and ice where they blow out.

Roth, with its stark, rocky landscape colored by a reddish hue, presents a dramatic scene on its frigid surface. The terrain, though dominantly rocky, is accented by intermittent white patches—areas where water ice has accumulated, adding visual contrast and pointing to intriguing subsurface conditions.

The planet is notably active geologically, as evidenced by the frequent eruptions of carbon dioxide geysers. These geysers, dramatic in their display, are the result of subterranean pressures that eject carbon dioxide and dust high into the thin atmosphere, creating plumes that are both a spectacle and a sign of the dynamic processes occurring beneath the surface.

Beyond the visible features of the surface, there is a possibility that Roth harbors smaller pockets of moisture beneath its icy crust. These pockets, potentially in the form of water permafrost or isolated reservoirs of liquid water, suggest that beneath the cold and seemingly barren exterior lies a more complex geologic structure. This subsurface moisture, albeit limited, could provide critical clues to the planet’s climatic and geologic history, and perhaps the processes that could allow for the storage of water in such a cold environment.

The presence of water ice and potential subsurface water pockets also adds another layer to the scientific study of Roth, indicating that the planet's cryosphere may be more active and varied than previously thought. Understanding these features could offer valuable insights into similar conditions on other rocky bodies in the solar system and beyond, particularly in terms of how water is retained and cycled in such extreme environments.

Gotha

Gotha, our thriving blue-green gem, is not just a testament to nature's brilliance amidst the vast theatre of the universe, but also the epicenter of an intricate celestial ballet. Elegantly escorted with every revolution by Hela, a moon enrobed in terracotta, Gotha radiates a deep, ethereal reddish allure. This exquisite dance paints poetic vistas on the Gothan skies, weaving a tapestry of shadows and lights.

Yet, what truly enchants the observer's eye and stands as Gotha's crowning jewel is its majestic ring system. This delicate halo of material gracefully encircles the planet, casting an almost mystical aura. It isn't merely the span of this ring that bewitches, but its diaphanous nature, borne from its sparse density. Under the gleaming embrace of Alir or the golden rays of our sun, this ring refracts and disperses light in captivating arrays, sprinkling dappled shadows and luminescent patterns upon Gotha's canvas.

In the proximity of this ring dances Otin, one of Gotha's minor moons - a tiny asteroid that creates ripples in the ring's composition. Its close proximity and interaction with the ring material creates a visible wave-like distortion, almost as if the universe's finger has skimmed the ring's surface. However, this mesmerizing display is a fleeting one on the cosmic timescale. Predictions suggest that Otin's dance with destiny is finite. In a few tens of millions of years, it may succumb to Gotha's gravitational might, fragmenting and becoming one with the very ring it now dances beside.

Laka, another of Gotha's asteroids, stands in stark contrast to Otin, maintaining a respectful distance in its orbit and serving as a silent guardian in the skies.

Hela, with its russet embrace, and the asteroids Otin and Laka, each with their tales, serve as eternal emblems of Gotha's rich celestial companionship. Meanwhile, the rings, with their perpetual luminance, transform Gotha from merely a cradle of life to a masterpiece of the cosmos's grand design.

Minor moons	Otin	Laka
Image	1
Class	Asteroid	Asteroid
Mass (Earth masses)	2.56E-07	5.00E-07
Radius (km)	42.87	53.93
Rotation Period (hours)	Tidally Locked	31
Ocean Data	N/A	N/A
Period	0.42	19.60
Semi-major Axis (AU)	16270.97	211731.68
Eccentricity	2.82	0.27
Axial Tilt	0.00	0.00
Inclination (°)	0.00	3.74

Hela

See also: Exploration of Hela

Hemmer Mons, typical volcanic landscape in much of Hela.

Shore of the highly acidic and hypersaline Mondrigis Sea, typical of Hela, its rainbow coastal colours are owed to archea that originated in Gotha billions of years in the past.

Hela, christened the "Crimson Sentinel" of Gotha's skies, stands as a testament to the fiery and tumultuous nature of celestial bodies. This rocky, volcanic moon exhibits a rich terracotta complexion, an ode to its dominant carbon dioxide atmosphere which scatters light in a manner painting the satellite in deep reddish hues. This unique coloration is punctuated by regions of yellow, a clear indication to the sulphur dioxide present, marking areas of heightened volcanic activity.

From Gotha, Hela appears as a large, dominant orb, its vast terrains easily discernible to the naked eye. During its phases, the moon transitions from a thin reddish crescent to a grand, fully illuminated terracotta disc, mesmerizing the onlookers below. On certain nights, sporadic bright spots break the monotonous reddish canvas, indicative of violent volcanic eruptions spewing molten lava on Hela's surface. These eruptions, occasionally casting a brighter glow, serve as celestial performances for Gothan stargazers.

While its appearance from Gotha might give a sense of warmth and fire, Hela is a world of contrasts. Its average temperature remains low, and the regions untouched by volcanic activity are frigid. Yet, its imposing presence and fiery visage in the sky have made it an object of both admiration and curiosity for generations on Gotha, forever etching it as the radiant, crimson guardian of the night.

Hela - Moon Data

Attribute	Value
Image
Class	Rocky Volcanic
Mass (Earth masses)	0.0209
Radius (km)	2,270
Rotation Period (hours)	41.30
Ocean Data	N/A
Orbital Data
Period (Days)	43.68
Semi-major Axis (km)	524,485.00
Eccentricity	0.05
Axial tilt	0.00
Inclination (°)	0.00
Max temperature	23.30
Average Temperature	2.44
Min Temperature	-180.00
Atmospheric Pressure (atm)	0.16
Atmosphere Composition %
CO2	83.00
SO2	1.50
H2O	0.25
N2	15.00
CO	0.20
Ar	0.02
Ne	0.01
Kr	0.01
He	0.01
O2	0.00

Topography of Hella

Colour map of Helas

The Orkanan Calendar

Main article: Orkanan Calendar

The Orkanan calendar is a marvel of celestial observance, synchronized meticulously with the phases of Hela, Gotha's dominant moon. Rooted deeply in the traditions and daily life of Gotha's inhabitants, this calendar has evolved as a reliable means to track time.

Structure:

• The calendar follows a month structure based on Hela's lunar phases. In a span of 2 solar years, there are 17 lunar months, translating to approximately 8.5 months in a single year.
• Each month consists of 4 weeks, aligning with the 4 distinct phases of Hela. The weeks are made up of 11 days each, with an exception for one week which has 10 days. This unique 10-day week serves as a reminder of the intricacies of the celestial bodies and their interplay.
• Hence, the length of a solar year in the Orkanan calendar is precisely 365.5 days.

Leap Years:

Given that there is a half-day discrepancy with the solar cycle each year, it accumulates over time. To rectify this and ensure that the lunar calendar remains synchronized with the solar year, the Orkanan calendar introduces a leap year.

Every 2 years, a leap day is added, bringing the total days in that year to 366. This adjustment ensures that the lunar phases, months, and solar year remain in harmony over extended periods.

Tyr - The System's Giant

Main article: Tyreal Cycle

Tyr, the enigmatic brown dwarf, traverses our skies in an eccentric ballet, its celestial path an age-old tale of duality, woven with threads of both boon and bane. From the surface of Gotha, during the Tyrian Maximum, Tyr stands as a luminous orb, larger and brighter than the most brilliant stars, yet dimmer than our vermillion coloured moon Hela. Despite its dwarf status, its deep molten orange, sometimes leaning toward reddish or magenta hues, lends the sky an ethereal quality, especially during the twilight hours. The dwarf's radiant heat intensifies the hues of sunrises and sunsets, painting the horizon with a palette of colours that have inspired countless Gothan poets and artists.

Every 36 years, as if bound by an ancient cosmic clock, Tyr draws close, casting its subtle but profound influence upon Gotha's delicate climate. During this Tyreal Maximum, Tyr's gravitational pull and subtle radiative effects combine to nudge Gotha's temperatures upward by a seemingly slight 2 degrees. In certain regions, clouds shift, rains become generous, and the land burgeons with life. Crops grow taller, fruits bear sweeter, and for a time, it's as if nature itself celebrates.

However, the dance of the cosmos is one of balance. As some regions revel in abundance, others face the brunt of Tyr's embrace. Rain clouds recede, rivers run thin, and parched lands stretch far and wide. Communities come together, finding ingenious ways to survive and adapt to these testing times.

Conversely, the Tyreal Minimum brings a change in Tyr's luminance. Its brightness diminishes, though it remains a distinctive presence in the sky due to its unique colour and brilliance. As Tyr retreats on its elliptical path, Gotha feels a drop in temperature, again by that crucial 2-degree mark. Areas once stricken by drought find relief in cooler breezes and timely rains. Yet, elsewhere, the cold proves a challenge.

Tyr, in its cosmic journey, serves as a reminder of the delicate balance that governs life. Its cycles, though predictable, challenge the adaptability of Gotha's inhabitants, pushing them to innovate, unite, and cherish the ebb and flow of nature's ever-changing embrace.

Celestial Body	Tyr
Image
Class	Brown Dwarf
Mass (Earth masses)	17,776.00
Radius (km)	56,473.00
Rotation Period (hours)	90.20
Ocean Data	N/A
Orbital Data (Period)	36.1 years
Semi-major Axis (AU)	11.10
Eccentricity	0.35
Axial tilt	0.00
Inclination (°)	0.00
Max temperature	727.00
Average Temperature	727.00
Min Temperature	727.00

Planets around Tyr

Tyr, identified not as a planet but a brown dwarf, diverges from traditional celestial bodies by having no moons. Instead, it is orbited by five significant planets, known since antiquity for their massive, icy compositions. These planets, characterized by their thick, icy crusts, harbor subsurface oceans beneath their frozen exteriors, suggesting a dynamic, albeit cold, geology. Among these, only two possess atmospheres substantial enough to be noted, with Mol standing out for its particularly dense atmosphere. This dense atmospheric layer on Mol is capable of sustaining cloud formations, hinting at complex weather systems and perhaps even more intricate atmospheric phenomena not commonly found on icy bodies.

In addition to these planets, Tyr commands a vast assembly of minor asteroids within its outer orbits. This collection is primarily composed of rocky bodies, each enveloped in layers of ice, showcasing a blend of materials that reflect both the composition of the brown dwarf's own formation and the varying conditions present in its distant, outer reaches. These asteroids, with their icy coatings, could potentially harbor clues about the early solar system's conditions and the processes that led to their current state.

The presence of such a diverse array of celestial objects around Tyr - from massive, icy planets with subsurface oceans and atmospheres capable of supporting cloud formation, to a vast constellation of icy-layered asteroids - underscores the complexity and diversity of the Tyr companions.

Planet Dan Mol Koth Hether Sinan Image Class Hot rocky World cold Rocky World Cold Ice World Frigid Ice World Frigid Ice World Mass (Earth masses) 0.00953 0.131 1.07 0.0351 0.0322 Radius (km) 1,409.00 3,965.00 7,374.00 2,272.50 2,150.00 Rotation Period (hours) Tidal Locked to Tyr Tidal Locked to Tyr Tidal Locked to Tyr Tidal Locked to Tyr Tidal Locked to Tyr Ocean Data None Intermittent liquid surface water Sub-surface Sub-surface Sub-surface Orbital Data (Period) 9.95 Hours 20.5 Hours 1.76 days 3.62 days 8.55 days Semi-major Axis (km) 612,797 992,940 1,607,584 2,600,248 4,608,522 Eccentricity 0.00 0.0022 0.0027 0.0059 0.0031 Axial Tilt 0.00 0.01 0.012 3.10 5.20 Inclination (°) 0.012 0.022 0.014 -0.010 -0.0144 Max Temperature 73.7 -7.33 -31.6 -179.00 -165.00 Average Temperature 67.8 -15.7 -32.1 -179.00 -169.00 Min Temperature 61.1 -27.1 -32.6 -180.00 -182.00 Atmospheric Pressure (atm) 1.01 1.92 15.7 Negligible Negligible Atmosphere Composition CO2, N2, H2O, CO CO2, N2, H2O, CO N2, CO2 N2, O2, Ar, Ne N2, O2, Ar, Ne

Alirian Outer System

Ves

the ice giant, is a mesmerizing canvas of contrasting beauty. Mottled pastel blue-green lowlands lie nestled amongst pristine icy white highlands and towering plateaus. The distinctive hues of its lowlands are courtesy of various nitrogen compounds, a vibrant testament to the planet's unique atmospheric composition. These vast expanses are frequently interrupted by striking black streaks that run predominantly from the east to the west. These streaks are not mere cosmetic features; they are remnants of Ves's volatile temperament. As the sun kisses Ves's surface, the underlying pressure from its subsurface nitrogen reservoirs builds, resulting in explosive geysers. These eruptions send dark plumes of nitrogen gas skyward, creating the characteristic blowouts that mar its otherwise serene landscape.

Non

The sentinel at the edge of our system, is a titan among planets. Dwarfing its many frozen moons, Non's vast expanse is a deep, enchanting blue, a color so profound it seems to swallow light itself. Streaking across this blue canvas are tempestuous cyan and white bands, the footprints of storms of unimaginable scale and ferocity. These aren't just any storms; they are tempests so powerful they could swallow entire planets. But it's what happens within that's even more captivating. Deep within Non's oppressive atmosphere, it's believed that diamond rains form — a spectacle of glittering crystals that cascade downward. But their descent is short-lived. As these diamonds plummet towards the planet's hotter inner regions, they vaporize, transitioning back into gaseous carbon, in a cyclic dance of creation and dissolution.

Planet Ves Non Class Ice World Gas Giant Mass (Earth masses) 3.91 220.89 Radius (km) 11,125.00 68,433.00 Rotation Period (hours) 13.56 8.24 Ocean Data N/A N/A Orbital Data (Period) 102.11 years 270 years Semi-major Axis (AU) 22.65 43.38 Eccentricity 0.03 0.02 Axial tilt 3.20 1.20 Inclination (°) -0.40 1.42 Max temperature (°C) -200 -190 Average Temperature (°C) -224 -210 Min Temperature (°C) -240 -230 Atmospheric Pressure (atm) Atmosphere Composition % (CO2) 0.99 N/A Atmosphere Composition % (SO2) 0 N/A Atmosphere Composition % (H2O) 0 N/A Atmosphere Composition % (N2) 98.41 N/A Atmosphere Composition % (CO) 0 N/A Atmosphere Composition % (Ar) 0.013048 N/A Atmosphere Composition % (Ne) 0.06804 N/A Atmosphere Composition % (Kr) 0 N/A Atmosphere Composition % (He) 0.52164 N/A Atmosphere Composition % (O2) 0 N/A