Overview
Terilij is a small, arid planet located in the Proxyj System, known for its extreme heat and desolate landscapes. Classified as a hot subterra world, it lies perilously close to its star, giving it harsh environmental conditions unsuitable for most known forms of life. The planet’s surface is predominantly composed of rocky, metallic minerals with vast stretches of desert. Its atmosphere is thin, barely supporting any complex weather systems, and temperatures routinely soar to a scorching average of 480°C. Despite the inhospitable climate, Terilij serves as a key strategic location for the Unified Systems of Proxyj Territory (USPT), primarily due to its proximity to mineral-rich regions and its geopolitical importance in the region.
The planet is orbited by a single natural satellite, Maskvichiev, which plays a significant role in maintaining Terilij's orbital stability. The moon is relatively small compared to its host planet but is often used as a base for observation stations and minor research outposts. Maskvichiev’s presence exerts minimal tidal effects due to Terilij’s low atmospheric pressure and lack of oceans. The interaction between the planet and its moon is primarily of navigational interest, with USPT using Maskvichiev as a launch and relay point for intersystem communications.
The extreme environment of Terilij places it firmly in the category of subterra planets, where life—if any—exists below the surface. However, extensive exploration has revealed no evidence of natural life forms inhabiting the planet. Terilij’s subterranean regions, while containing valuable mineral deposits, are not suitable for human habitation due to intense geothermal activity and toxic gases present deep below the crust. These conditions have led to the construction of deep underground facilities by the Zideans, the planet’s only permanent population.
In some historical documents and older astronomical catalogs, Terilij is referred to by its alternative designation, Proxyj 1. This name reflects its position as the closest planet to the Proxyj star and its status as the first celestial body discovered in the system. Over time, the name "Terilij" has become the more commonly used identifier, especially in USPT communications and scientific literature.
Terilij is under the jurisdiction of the Unified Systems of Proxyj Territory (USPT), a powerful interstellar federation that controls much of the Proxyj system. USPT maintains a strong military and political presence on the planet, largely to secure its strategic importance and resource potential. The Zidean population, though relatively autonomous, is subject to USPT oversight, and many of the planet’s underground operations are tied to USPT's broader goals in the system.
Moons
Maskvichiev – Terilij’s solitary moon, Maskvichiev, is a cold, barren rock. Despite its desolate nature, it serves as a staging ground for several spacefaring operations. The lack of atmosphere and its relatively stable orbit make it ideal for military and commercial facilities. The moon has become a vital part of USPT's interstellar infrastructure in the Proxyj system, particularly as a waystation for ships traveling between Terilij and other planets in the system.
Orbital Characteristics
Terilij orbits its star at a semi-major axis of 0.09 AU, placing it very close to its host sun and making it one of the hottest planets in the Proxyj system. The planet completes one full orbit around its star in just 10.022 Earth days. Interestingly, its rotational period is tidally locked to its orbital period, meaning the same side of Terilij always faces its star, creating a permanent day side and a night side, both of which experience extreme conditions.
Physical Characteristics
Terilij is a relatively small planet with a diameter of 6759 kilometers and a mass of 0.13444 times that of Earth. Its surface gravity is lower than Earth's at 0.4776 g, making it easier for the planet’s small population to move about despite the harsh environmental conditions. The planet's age is estimated to be around 9.443 billion years, making it an ancient world with a long and tumultuous geological history, though its current state is one of stagnation with minimal tectonic or volcanic activity.
Biology and Population
Terilij is a barren world with no native life, and its scorching surface makes it highly unlikely that life as we know it could develop naturally. However, the planet is inhabited by around 400,000 Zideans, a technologically advanced species that has adapted to the planet’s extreme conditions through the use of advanced technology. Zidean settlements are located deep underground, where geothermal energy provides a more stable environment for their operations. These enclaves are heavily fortified and designed to withstand both the planet’s environmental dangers and external threats.