Airesem (AI)

Airesem is a frontier outpost of the Navareo Empire, situated near a Class FIIIm star at the empire's edge. It serves as a key checkpoint between the Empire's core territories and its outer realms, though its function as a penal colony somewhat overshadows its strategic importance.

Geography and Environment

Officially named Airesem IIIa, the world is commonly referred to simply as Airesem due to its being the only inhabited body in the system. Its landscape is characterised by rocky terrain and hostile temperatures, necessitating the construction of Hab Spheres and atmospheric tents to provide liveable conditions.

History

Originally established as a research outpost for tracking celestial phenomena, Airesem's role shifted with the expansion of the Navareo Empire. It was repurposed as a penal colony to manage the Empire's growing territories and criminal elements.

Airesem Prison Riots

For a comprehensive account, see the AlmaNet article on the Airesem Prison Riots (link: page://IZb2OvZLaqPd5CEO text: Airesem Prison Riots).

Population and Society

Airesem's population includes a mix of free residents and prisoners. Non-inmate residents, such as Empire employees, researchers, and service sector workers, outnumber the incarcerated population. However, the presence of the penal colony significantly influences the social fabric.

The population breakdown is as follows:

Normal residents: Approximately 3 million
Empire employees: Around 200,000
Researchers: About 15,000
Inmates: Roughly 5.3 million

Living Conditions

Life on Airesem is challenging due to harsh working conditions, the extreme environment, and the colony's high-risk function. Both penal workers and free residents endure a consistently poor standard of living.

Strategic Importance

Airesem remains strategically important to the Navareo Empire. Its location on an interstellar strait and the Star Loop line of the HyperMetro makes it a vital traffic checkpoint, playing a crucial role in maintaining control over the Empire's outer reaches.