Sotaleko Star System

From Solas Tempus DB
A painting of the Sotaleko star as seen from Sataleko 1 with Sataleko 2 in the background called "Luminous Reverie".
Type: M6V Red Dwarf
Radius: 2.51 x 105 km (0.36 of Sol)
Mass: 4.35 x 1029 kg (0.22 of Sol)
Temperature: 2400 K
Luminosity: 1.48 x 1024 W (0.0003 of Sol)
Ecosphere:Between 0.045 and 0.124 AU
Location: Ataraddon Sector
1.1 ly from the Winovin Star System
2.2 ly from the Las Miranonine Sector

The Sotaleko Star System revolves around a small and cool M6V Red Dwarf star. It consists of just two small planets, Sotaleko Prime and Sotaleko 2. Despite being unremarkable in terms of its planetary composition, neither of the planets is suitable for supporting life. Sotaleko Prime, a frozen world with active geological features, maintains a thick atmosphere mainly composed of oxygen, nitrogen, and argon. However, its surface is covered in permanent glaciers heavy in frozen hydrocarbons. On the other hand, Sotaleko 2 is a barren and desolate planet with a thin atmosphere primarily made up of hydrocarbons and oxygen. Both planets lack the necessary conditions for sustaining life, and the cool nature of the star prevents them from being viable candidates for terraforming endeavors.

Sotaleko 1

Class: P
Distance: 1.66 x 107 km (0.11 AU)
Period: 2.88 Days
Radius: 7.298.05 km (1.15 of Earth)
Gravity: 1.22 G

A frozen world, covered in glaciers but still geologically active. Volcanic activity is common, as are small tectonic shifts. Volcanic outgassing helps keep this world's atmosphere warm enough so the world does not freeze altogether. Still, the surface is covered in thick permanent glaciers heavy in frozen hydrocarbons. The atmosphere is thick and composed mostly of oxygen, nitrogen, and argon.

Unique Features

Glacial Blue Glow
One of the peculiar phenomena observed on Sotaleko 1 is the ethereal blue glow emitted by the thick glaciers that cover its surface. Under certain lighting conditions, perhaps influenced by the planet's atmospheric composition or the interaction between sunlight and the frozen hydrocarbons, the glaciers emanate a soft, eerie blue luminescence. This mesmerizing phenomenon adds a touch of otherworldly beauty to the frozen landscape, casting an enchanting glow across the icy terrain.
Whispering Winds
Sotaleko 1 is known for its unusual atmospheric acoustics. When gentle breezes blow across the planet's frozen surface, a unique phenomenon occurs—the winds carry faint, melodic whispers. Scientists believe that the combination of the dense atmosphere, the composition of gases, and the intricate patterns of the glaciers creates a peculiar resonance that results in these whispered sounds. The ethereal whispers have captivated explorers and researchers, sparking debates and investigations into the underlying mechanisms behind this atmospheric symphony.
Subterranean Crystal Caverns
Hidden beneath the surface of Sotaleko 1 lie vast networks of crystal caverns, a marvel of natural architecture. These subterranean formations, created through intricate geological processes over millennia, house dazzling arrays of luminous crystals that illuminate the chambers with a surreal glow. The crystals, composed of unique mineral compositions influenced by the planet's geothermal activity, refract light in mesmerizing patterns, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for any intrepid explorers venturing into the depths. The crystal caverns present an otherworldly beauty and a potential source of valuable minerals and scientific intrigue.

Sotaleko 2

Class: P
Distance: 3.10 x 107 km (0.21 AU)
Period: 74.58 Days
Radius: 7,971.17 km (1.25 times Earth)
Gravity: 1.24 G

Sotaleko 2 is a barren world with a thin atmosphere composed mainly of hydrocarbons and oxygen. The planet's geological activity is minimal due to its apparent age, but it has sustained numerous impact craters that have contributed to the mix of gases present in the atmosphere. The surface temperature of Sotaleko 2 is only slightly higher than that of liquid oxygen, indicating extremely cold conditions. The planet's distance from the cool star has limited its heat source, resulting in frigid temperatures across the surface.

The thick layers of frozen methane and ammonia, along with the ice layers, cover the surface, giving it a distinct composition. The impact craters found throughout the planet's terrain have played a crucial role in the planet's atmospheric composition. Each impact releases sublimated gases, including hydrocarbons and other volatile compounds, which contribute to the thin atmosphere. However, the lack of substantial geological activity prevents the replenishment of these gases from the planet's interior.

Unique Features

Frozen Geysers
One remarkable aspect of Sotaleko 2 is the presence of frozen geysers scattered across its surface. Despite the planet's limited geological activity, certain regions experience periodic eruptions of volatile substances from beneath the frozen layers. These eruptions propel jets of sublimated gases and fine icy particles into the air, creating spectacular frozen geysers that reach varying heights before falling back and freezing once again.