> > > o r b i t
Offworld Habitats:
A chipped voice begins speaking in soothing tones, "We are now in transfer orbit between Crystal Palace and the L4 habitat." The voice continues: "The habitat is located at a slot in the gravity well where its orbit is stabilized by the opposing forces of Earth and Luna. The habitat itself is contained inside a torus, which is 3.1km (1.8mi) in diameter. Four spokes, or lift-tubes, connnect the torus to a central core, called the Hub. We are beginning final docking maneuvers for the L4 North Airlock. Once through customs, use the tubelifts (elevators) to enter the habitat's living areas. Have a pleasant visit." A booming clang echoes through the cabin as docking clamps engage.
Heaven Star
This facility, the oldest of the orbital habitats, began as the International Space Station
in the late 20th Century. Renamed Heaven Star and refurbished after the economic collapses of
the new millenium, it became a focal point for corporate research and expansion into space. Today it
suffers from funding troubles and the disinterest of its sponsors-- illegal squatters outnumber its
corporate 'citizens' by almost 50%.
Crystal Palace
As a fueling point and gateway station, Crystal Palace is small and austere by the opulent standards
of most offworld resorts. It services connecting orbital flights between earthbound airports and colonies
in higher orbits. The volume of travellers and goods it processes have created an effective backdrop for
a flourishing black market of smugglers and illegal orbital transports.
L4 Orbital Habitat
Conceived from the start as a retreat for the rich and powerful, L4 was built upon lessons learned in
the previous construction of the ill-fated L5 colony. Today, L4 is a bustling center of commerce
and orbital tourism, with its high-stakes casinos, exotic vistas, and corporate venues. The Offworld Stock
Exchange and major manufacturing facilities for the Mortius Biotechnologies Corporation are located
here. The colony's owner, InterOrbital Incorporated, maintains its corporate headquarters in a giant
archology that dominates the habitat's landscape.