Black cluster
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A black cluster is an area of space that is created when numerous protostars collapse in close proximity to one another.
The result of this collective collapse is an area of space that absorbs energy, and dangerously affects spacecraft systems.
Black clusters are also known for their violent and unpredictable gravitational wavefronts.
This phenomenon has been described as "a huge, black bending of space, seemingly an immense lens-like cloud, dotted throughout by tiny pulsars."
Fun Facts
- Prior to 2368, the Federation maintained reports from starships traveling through black clusters indicating sensor difficulties.
- In 2368, the SS Vico was assigned to explore a black cluster, located in Sector 97. This particular cluster was formed an estimated nine billion years ago, from hundreds of collapsed protostars, and was seven times more massive than any black cluster that had been previously sighted. After the Federation lost contact with the USS Vico, the USS Enterprise-D was sent to investigate. Upon its arrival on the edge of this black cluster, the destroyed hull of the USS Vico was immediately found.
The Enterprise itself was almost destroyed while further investigating the former ship's disappearance.
- The USS Vico had one survivor: a male child named Timothy, the son of the ship's Second Officer.
