Beta Hydri

Name : Beta Hydri

Allegiance : Federation

Government : Federal Democracy

Economy : Capitalist

Coordinates : 0,-2

Population : 10 Billion

• Conveniently situated approximately halfway between the centres of both Federation and Empire it is one of the founding members of the Federation, following the first interstellar war. This large system maintains a thriving civilisation and trade. The main world of Homeland has established itself as a major centre for trading in luxury goods and the downtown regions of Dickens and Hooper are renowned for precious metal work and jewellery. The authorities on the planet have attempted to control the spread of industrial technology, craftsmen and women provide high quality finished work, for a price. Tourism is a major source of income for the system, though several major corporations maintain large offices here, because of the convenient location.

• The terraformed world of New Caledonia was settled originally by two families of mega-millionaires of Scottish descent, from Capitol (before it became the centre of Empire administration). They financed the conversion of the world, and placed major constraints on its development. As was the wish of the founding families, the world is devoted to game hunting and fishing, with large areas of the planet given over to moors, fens and forests despite the relatively high population. The planet lives by tourism and sporting events. The planet also has a reputation for good stables and has held the interstellar equestrian finals more often than any other planet.

• New Caledonia also has a reputation for producing the finest liquor in civilised space, with several distilleries vying for the highest accolades. Many believe that the ultimate prize must be held for Fujiyama Old Gold, or Glen Halyconia whiskeys.

Entry by David Massey