ArcNebula Codex : Asteroids

Asteroids

Asteroids are an abundant source of raw materials in the Universe. Raw materials obtained from them can be mined, hauled and then traded with most civilisations. Asteroids are found in large rings around entire planet systems, in fields in deep space, and also in orbit around planets. Most asteroids have some kind of ore for which they can be bored or mined for. Boring can be done by a single pilot with a suitably equipped ship. Mining is usually carried out on a larger scale with harvesting and processing ships in small groups or industrial sized fleets.

Asteroid fields are also the cause of more territorial conflicts than any other location in the ArcNebula Universe. The further you travel into deep space the more lawless asteroid populated regions become, and the more trouble you can get into when in them. Deep space fields are often locations claimed by outlaw pirate groups as a base of operations, or miners who have simply been "out there" for too long and no longer recognise the norms of stellar conduct. Of course some asteroid belts, or fields, are wholly owned by large conglomerates, and some would argue that they are the most dangerous areas asteroids are found in, as the companies that control them are a law unto themselves.

Boring or mining licenses can be obtained from the race overseeing any particular region of space, and are required if you hope to be able to trade in Ores on the legal markets.

Asteroid boring operations require at a minimum an Enhanced Scanner and an Asteroid Borer fitted to a ship which is capable of hauling the ore obtained.

Asteroid mining operations require a dedicated ship, fitted with Tractor Beams, Enhanced Scanners, Mining Drones, and enough cargo space to haul ore the drones produce.