Alpha Centauri IV

Alpha Centauri IV is the homeworld of the Alpha Centauran species. Alpha Centauri IV (known as Velestus in the native language) is one of thirteen planets orbiting binary stars. The first two planets are F class with only orbital scientific stations. Alpha Centauri III and IV are the two planets that have large colonies. Planets V through X are class V gas giants varying in size. Several of their moons are home to starbases and small colonies. A lot of free traders have scouted Alpha Centauri XII for valuable ores among the distant meteorites and comets.

Alpha Centauri IV's most distinguishing celestial feature is its series of rings. It has two small moons, Nykos and Tharon, which are home to mining colonies. The planet's atmosphere is an oxygen-nitrogen mix with pressure close to Earth normal. Seventy percent of the planet is covered with water. There are hundreds of small islands scattered across the surface. The average temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Widely varying solar radiation levels, tectonic stress and other problems beset the planet driving the Alpha Centaurans to develop terraforming technology early in their history. Their scientists believe that, over ten million years ago, a third moon orbiting the planet was ripped apart by tidal forces as it descended too close to the planet, producing a rare ring system around the inner planet.

The current population of Alpha Centauri IV is around 3 billion people, plus a small human and Vulcan population. Many of the humans living on Alpha Centauri are descended from the first immigrants from Earth, dating all the way back to the 21st century. The capital city is Tarola'n, with features the famous Monument of Visions art museum. Alpha Centauri is a major exporter of art and is a popular tourist destination. Their holographic art is highly collectable. Alpha Centauran artists are sought out to design specialized holodeck programs.

Two native species have become well known to Federation visitors. The kerra'vein are canine-like animals similar to huskies. They are a popular local pet. In the wild these animals live on fish and carrion. The lala'vel is a small winged creature that closely resembles the terran bat except for color which ranges from pure white to blue to green. Lala'vels sleep in caves or dark areas during the day and feed on insects at night.