Epsilon Indi III
Star System: Epsilon Indi
Type: Terran
Satellites: two (uninhabited)
Inhabitable: Yes
Population: 260,000
Government: Human (United Nations)
Date of Establishment: January 9, 2738
Epsilon Indi III is the standard astronomical name for the third planet from the orange dwarf Epsilon Indi, best known as the home of the Human interstellar colony of Persephone.
The planet is of approximately Earth mass and was chosen because of its pronounced similarities to Earth relative to other planets near Sol. Temperatures are somewhat colder than on Earth and the pronounced north and south polar icecaps consume a large part of the planet's surface, owing to the low mass of Epsilon Indi relative to Sol. However, conditions are generally favourable to life.
The atmosphere is highly toxic to humans, being composed primarily of nitrogen and sulfur with trace amounts of oxygen and carbon present. This, however, has led to an assortment of sulfur-fueled flora and fauna which makes Epsilon Indi III an ecological treasure trove for xenobiologists. In spite of the colony's presense, very little is currently known about Epsilon Indi III's ecosphere.
The wood of many of Epsilon Indi III's trees is one of the hardest naturally occuring substances in the galaxy. Properly treated and cared for, it also retains a remarkable lustre, and is highly prized in high-end construction projects. Export of this timber is the major industry in the colony. The growing season tends to be short due to low temperatures, but high soil fertility allows an agriculture sector to thrive as well.
Mineral wealth on Epsilon Indi III has not been extensively surveyed. Small deposits of iron and nickel have been found near the colony site and some low-level mining occurs, but more extensive findings await further surveying.