The Shape of Known Space
From the fortified heart of Sol to the frontier, and the long reach toward the galactic rim.
Three distinct boundaries
Confederate space is measured outward from Sol. The Limit of Control lies approximately 858 light-years from the center. Within this radius, the Confederation reports firm territorial control.
The Frontier Zone extends from 858 to 1,500 light-years. It contains charted regions and areas of intermittent patrol, but federal authority is incomplete. Beyond the frontier, explored space reaches nearly 30,000 light-years toward the galactic rim, with settlement limited to scattered outposts.
Explored space is not controlled space. A survey’s reach exceeds the reach of a standing fleet.
Coreward and rimward
The Holy Solar Empire lies coreward, facing the Centauri marches. The Confederation’s exploration limit faces rimward. These directions frame the strategic chart and explain the different responsibilities assigned to its military districts.
2780 survey figures
| Survey category | Published figure |
|---|---|
| Member states | 283 |
| Populated worlds | 176 |
| Qualifying installations | 107 |
| Estimated population | 41.7 billion |
| Operational star gates | 34 |
| Major shipyards | 61 |
| Orbital habitats | 642 |
Installations with a permanent population of at least one million receive full membership. Figures are reported by the CONTRA Astrocartographic Division.