Outer Dust Rings

2008-03-09T11:37:00.001-07:00

"Odelia's Fan"
digitally manipulated fractal flame collage by Mick Mather

OUTER DUST RINGS, Quadrant 7 - A remnant of the black hole currently occupying Quadrant 1 is adding another mystery to the growing number of visible events throughout the system. A spokesperson for The Ministry of Science & Future Technology has gone on record to report that sanctioned study teams are relatively certain that they're seeing a graviton attached to a superstring. Once the black hole began breaking apart, fundamental forces in each sector began behaving radically, in this display, for example, with an emission of light particles dubbed "Odelia's Fan" (after The Princess of Derby). The space around the graviton is extremely bent and another theory is that we're witnessing the creation of a new continuum portal that, if true, is suspected to reach farther into the known universe than any other previously discovered port. As with the Quadrant 1 activity, only authorized scientific teams are allowed in the area but satellite transmission of approved visuals - as seen here - are now available via EyeSpy Satellite feed. Since grid time is expensive, the Ministry of Education will purchase block feeds and make them available to appropriate study groups. Contact MoE for complete details.

High Flying Sport -

2008-03-02T07:59:00.001-08:00

"Surf Shakers"
digitally manipulated fractal flame collage by Mick Mather

LAST WORLD, Thermosphere - In an effort to rehabilitate Last World's atmosphere, the Ministry of Science & Future Technology has purchased a modernized fleet of high-flying processors that are expected to boost and enhance the output of ground-based units. The ships are huge, kilometer-size behemoths that circle the planet, skimming along - or, as the pilots call it, surfing the thermosphere. Each is equipped with a number of atmospheric seeding devices as well as a particle accelerator configured to accomplish such tasks as super heating water, breaking up ice sheets and raking permafrost layers known to contain bacteria and other organisms that assist in speeding up the process of planet warming and atmosphere stabilization. This shake & bake approach to creating livable environments for future colonists is standard technology fare, but the addition of the Surf Shaker high-fly unit is quite a new wrinkle. In this artist rendition, a pair of processors can be seen as they go about their important work in tandem. Since pilot rotation is heavy during this phase of planetary rehab, opportunities for young men and women seeking work after graduation are above average for qualified individuals. The Ministry of Education has implemented an internship program for seniors and graduate level students who are encouraged to apply. What's in your future?

Theorists Laboratory -

2008-02-05T17:18:00.000-08:00

"A Black Hole Losing Gravity"
digitally manipulated fractal flame by Mick Mather

OUTER DUST RINGS, Quadrant 1 - The Ministry of Science & Future Technology has released the unsettling news that a black hole has apparently been captured by the Outer Dust Rings System. A research station, established at the fringe of Quadrant 1 to study an unknown and puzzling event, has now confirmed that a black hole in the throes of rapid entropic convulsion is the cause. Until now, it was always assumed that a black hole would continue to capture and devour anything in its path through eternity. This is no longer thought to be the case and it's clear that this stellar destroyer is losing gravity at an exponential rate. While no member of the research team is willing to offer a theory as regards what the end result of this strange occurrence will be, it is quite clear that the information being gathered will effectively change current paradigms relating to quantum mechanics of black holes. Currently, only authorized scientific teams are permitted in the quadrant but fly-by tours may be forthcoming.

Island Building -

2008-01-29T18:52:00.000-08:00

"The Land, Separated from the Sea"

digitally manipulated fractal flame by Mick Mather

WATERWORLD, N20º49'.E140º12' - Volcanic activity in the North Western Oceanic Quadrant has been explosively dramatic since the Alignment of the 12 this year. Another close encounter with Tanak - the closest in over 100 years - will afford visitors the unique opportunity to see that planet, at dusk and at dawn, as though it were sitting upon the surface of the ocean. In preparation for the month-long duration of this phenomenon the Ministry of Science & Future Technology is already building a floating city for tourism and settlement initiatives. Views similar to what you see here will be common during the 120 days of alignment with peak tour booking and lodging expected during the prime Tanak encounter. Contact your Tourism Agent today!

Topographic Zoning -

2008-01-21T13:40:00.000-08:00

"Reclamation Zone I"
digitally manipulated fractal flame & digital drawing by Mick Mather

TRACKS, Edge of the Sea of Dust - Geoformers have begun reclaiming large tracts of the wastelands north of the Sea of Dust. From a distance, the gridded locations of future reservoirs, reflecting pools and building foundations appear as a series of dots and dashes. These depressions not only resemble an ancient communication code, they are in fact based on that old code. One that tells the story of how the built environment to come is to be zoned, developed and marked for purposes of site design, satellite mapping and wayfinding that will eventually include visual signage, maps and municipal information directories. While there is a program for advanced study level students of geoforming, other disciplines - communication design, environmental foundation gridding, architectural community design as well as infrastructure development & management - will find the Work Studies Program to be an experiential addition to contemporary curricula and theory. Contact The Ministry of Education today for your information brochure and application.

Mercenary Monument Design Competition -

2008-01-13T09:19:00.001-08:00

"Mercenary Monument"
digitally manipulated fractal flame collage by Mick Mather

DERBY, Oopsville - The Ministry of Defense has recently announced a design competition to erect a memorial to the thousands of mercenary soldiers who fought and died in the 100 Years Civil War throughout the Outer Dust Rings. Seen here is one of the early designs submitted by the ex patriot Terran artist, Michael Warren, himself a Mercenary Soldier attached to the legendary Point Squad Alpha led by the equally legendary battlefield commander, The Sloganeer. The monument proposed by Warren is a holographic image of a series of posts where actual signatures of the soldiers have been scanned and morphed into a common typeface. The site of these memorial posts are most impressive at night but shimmer and shine even in full sunlight. While this is only the first of many expected designs, it's the only proposal we have for illustration purposes to date. For a copy of the Request for Proposals and submission guidelines, please contact Ministry of Defense office closest to you.

2008-01-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

"The Ribs of the Sea of Dust"
digitally manipulated fractal flame collage by Mick Mather

TRACKS, The Ribs - The Ministry of Science & Future Technology will be offering another series of digs for students interested in archaeology. This collaboration with the Ministry of Education will study the plate tectonics and inter-plate, oceanic volcanic activity that gave rise to this planet's name. The ribbed patterns of magma seen from space make the planet appear to be covered in a variety of track-like patterns. Similar activity is occurring on all of the planets with deep oceans and plate activity, especially Waterworld. Tracks itself is an elder sister and was once completely covered with water as well. The dig team process has a relatively simple application but competition for available slots is stiff. Contact either Ministry today for complete details.

Hunter of the Golden Flame -

2008-01-01T06:18:00.001-08:00

"Volpes Auria Flamma"
fractal flame & digital painting by Mick Mather

LAST WORLD, The Solstice Hunt - The magnificent "Golden Fox", found only on Last World, will soon begin one of the most curious and amazing feats of the animal kingdom. Each year the Solstice Flare of a near plasma cluster, particularly brilliant at this time, sets in motion a pack-merge by these beautiful animals. As can be seen in this artists' rendition of one of the rare observances of such a merge, the concentric activity of the pack clustering is quite like a dance. Aside from being an interactive hunt the merge also serves the important function of inter-pack mating that assists in keeping the breed strong and pure. The Ministry of Tourism in partnership with The Federated Wildlife Service severely limits access to those areas of Last World where this activity is prevalent. For a vacation in a Federated Parks Service setting that you won't soon forget, don't delay in contacting your local office of tourism.

Emergence From the Birth Chamber -

2007-12-23T10:03:00.000-08:00

"Hyper Cooling View"
fractal flame & digital drawing by Mick Mather

STAR CHAMBER: QUADRANT SIX, Outer Dust Rings - The most recent gas bubble to emerge from the cluster of birth chambers in Quadrant Six shows signs of becoming a planet. The gas bubble that was ejected suddenly and quickly from one of the unstable canals is currently undergoing hyper cooling. In addition, post genesis ion streams driven by magnetically charged winds of super heated gas seem to be providing the required ingredients for this recipe of planet building. While it's too soon to know whether the newborn will remain on the current path to planet status, study teams are busily recording every facet of the post-delivery process. It may be decades before probes can be sent and perhaps a generation before manned research teams will be able to stand on the surface. If your adolescent scientist is showing any early interest in this phenomenon, be aware that the Ministry of Science & Future Technology is planning experiential learning programs in partnership with the Ministry of Education and The Ground Zero Geological Foundation. Contact any of these partner organizations for enrollment details today.

Time and Space -

2007-12-16T10:03:00.000-08:00

"Poster: Time Tunnel Week"

digital drawing by Mick Mather

DERBY, The Time & Space Continuum, Ltd. - The investors in TSC, Ltd. have announced the Grand Opening of Timegate Adventures. In a few short months the public will be invited to schedule week-long vacations that will not only take you anywhere in time, but will also have you back home before your tea has finished brewing! Ideal for that section of the labor force employed in high stress occupations and for research project teams whose work shouldn't be interrupted, this new business is expected to create thousands of jobs. From destination booking sales, time guides and relocation specialists to philologists, anthropologists and survival specialists. A planned series of time study projects is being undertaken by TSC, Ltd. in partnership with the Ministry Of Tourism for the purpose of identifying the most popular time sites and for development of affordable family package tours. Toward that end, Time Tunnel Week has been instituted to test the market as well as a means to solicit the time travel pioneers who will pave the way for this exciting new field in the leisure services industry.

Green Shadow Peaks -

2007-12-09T19:14:00.000-08:00

"Night Shift"

digital collage by Mick Mather

NWY, Green Holiday - From far across the Lake of Shadows can be seen seasonal displays that decorate the shoreline. Reflections bounce off the water and into the cityscape that stands as a silhouette against the night sky. Twin towers - known as the Green Shadow Peaks - are edged with blue, green and yellow, making for a striking display this time of year. The special solar glass panels create a somewhat fantastic effect with the interior lights shining out upon the water while appearing dark to the viewer outside. These reflections, referred to as The Night Shift Effect, have been an integral part of the experience since their construction over 100 years ago. Even though temperatures are relatively mild in the cool season, tour boat operators always recommend warm clothing for the popular "Night Light Excursion". Family rates are about to go into effect, contact your agent today for complete details and booking information.

Redhead Tern Festival in 101st Year -

2007-12-01T06:41:00.001-08:00

"Migration"

digital collage by Mary Stebbins Taitt

NWY, Lake of Shadows - Migration on the sylvan shores of the Lake of Shadows, just outside the City of Syracusica, is in full swing. Flocks of the rare Redhead Tern (named for a similar bird common to Terra) rest on the lake before their seasonal move south. The terns of New World York are much larger than those found on Terra and are capable of catching and eating some of our largest fish. The 101st Annual Redhead Tern Festival, opening soon at The Park of Shadows, enters the final planning stage by the Syracusica Department of Community Development in collaboration with The Ministry of Tourism. Competition anglers, game cuisine lovers and throngs of grass roots festival goers are looking forward to another opportunity to partake of New World Carp and the giant New World Pike. Skewered on imported mesquite stakes these traditional fish are cooked over a rocketcar flame, a new technique that produces perfectly cooked fish in 15 seconds! Our keystone festival attraction, the Tern-Feeding Contest, is an extreme sport only for our bravest, most dexterous young men enrolled in the Rite-of-Passage Program. More than a recommendation as in previous years, all spectators not watching from the observation cages must wear special gloves as fingers can quickly disappear. There will be live music, a display of tern art, tern poetry, a tern-feather-boa beauty contest and a tern look-alike contest. Contact your tourism agent today and take advantage of Early Bird Booking Rates.

Ex Patriot Terran Artist to Appear -

2007-11-25T05:25:00.000-08:00

"A Square Peg and A Round Hole #21"
digital painting by Mick Mather

DERBY, Commondale Gallery of Art - In a few short weeks the unveiling of a new digital painting by the ex patriot Terran artist, Michael Warren, will take place in Commondale, Bards Wood, Derby. This new work is part painting and part installation where a special curved screen has been installed in the Main Gallery of the Commondale Gallery of Art. This unique construct will allow the viewer to walk into and become a part of the artwork - including the opportunity to make your way to the wormhole and disappear through the portal. Those who take advantage of this interactive aspect of the display will emerge into the Ballard Room of the gallery where 20 monotypes - created by the artist over a decade ago - will be on display. Access to The Robert Gate in Oopsville will be dedicated to patrons of this exhibition during the opening and this connection through space and time is intended to mimic that Jump Gate experience. Early registration for this event is already brisk. Contact your tourism agent now!

Ancient Monument discovered -

2007-11-18T08:53:00.000-08:00

"Pyramid Valley, Oopsville"
digital painting by Mick Mather

DERBY, Oopsville, Ministry of Ancient Antiquities - A millennial storm recently made all known maps of the Great Northern Dessert of Derby void with a month long shifting of the sands by gale force winds. Even as cartographers were scrambling to retrieve satellite data, early remapping photographs showed a pyramid structure near Oopsville. The historic tourist attraction known as the Sand Hills of Oopsville suffered major shifting and initial assessments were grim for the future outlook of the area. The largest dune, having been completely removed by the storm, gave up its secret and both the Federated Park Service and the Ministry of Ancient Antiquities have upgraded their disaster reports to reflect the fortuitous news. In the photograph shown here, the scale of the monument is difficult to ascertain since it is dwarfed by the newly created dunes that surround it. The Park Service has already graded a service road to the area so that geologists and engineers can undertake the stabilization processes required that will allow study to begin as quickly as possible. Interested in seeing the new pyramid? Do you have a name for the new pyramid? The Ministry of Tourism is undertaking a public information campaign built around the important needs of preservation, scientific study and cultural heritage that will include day trips and specialty tours very soon. Contact your agent today!

Sport-A-Bout Transport Service -

2007-11-11T08:12:00.000-08:00

"Two Seat Bug"
digital collage by Mick Mather

DERBY, Derby Historical Society - The Ad Club of Derby recently presented the Ministry of Transportation with a series of old advertising posters. The half dozen posters are of historic note for their prominent display of "The Bug", a 2-seat, mini airbus designed and manufactured by Sport-A-Bout, aimed at, and popularized by, the youth culture of the day. Also of prominent note and historic value is the appearance of the young Princess of Derby in each of the adverts. After the advent of the gates and jump ports, such transportation vehicles became needless in most urban areas and have been relegated to the province of collectors and enthusiasts of motive power. Transport Clubs in The Rural Counties still use all manner of vehicles and The Bug remains one of the most popular. While transportation industry manufacturing was greatly reduced, it is still a thriving industry today. Most Derby Day Trip tour operators include a visit to The Transport Museum where this poster set will become a permanent display. Call your tourism agent today!

The R2 Factory -

2007-11-03T07:22:00.000-07:00

"Power Core Upgrade at the R2 Factory"
digital collage by Mick Mather

OOPSVILLE, DERBY, Ministry of Science & Future Technology - A recent advance by teams of engineers and AI developers at Netsky is expected to improve the intelligence capacity of machines to previously unimagined levels. The new power core hardware is assembled from millions of clusters of nanotech appliances capable of progressive, intuitive and creative thinking. Apparently, the AI code writers plugged a desktop model into the wrong power outlet where a surge resulted in the creation of magnetic fields that quickly became intertwined with - and took control of - the linear thinking loops. Soon, the model was creatively thinking and learning on it's own as evidenced by work output that was clearly defining, refining and recreating the field to achieve faster and better results as well as making innovations on the programmed linear task loops. The power core installations for factory line R2 units will begin soon and the Ministry of Tourism has already partnered with Netsky and their Public Relations department to promote factory tours. Contact your local agent for details!

Shield of Babbasoon -

2007-10-28T10:48:00.000-07:00

"Shield of Babbasoon"
digital collage by Mick Mather

MINISTRY of ANCIENT ANTIQUITIES, Jericho - The archaeological digs near the old Mud City ruins have given up at least one valuable secret. While there are a handful of examples of the Ancient Shield of Babbasoon, this is the first shield ever discovered that is made from wood. Most are carved assemblages of animal bone taken from the now extinct babbaso. The animal is similar to the Terran baboon with sub-specie markers related to other Terran animals such as the African feral cat and the meerkat. It is known that indigenous peoples of Jericho had a detrimental reliance on wood for every aspect of daily life and the planet has been devoid of any meaningful mature growth for centuries. Hence, the only ceremonial shields that remain are of bone since the wood was either used, in desperation, for fuel or through natural decomposition. Dig teams are rotated on a regular basis due to the harshness of Jericho's climate and volunteers are always welcome. If you have an interest in anthropology and archaeology, now would be a good time to contact your tourist agent for a vacation you won't soon forget!

The Federation Building -

2007-10-21T18:03:00.000-07:00

"Outer Dust Rings Federation Building"
digital collage by Mick Mather

NWY, The Federation Building - The recently completed facade for the Federation Building was delivered to New World York and the City of Syracusica ahead of schedule by the ex patriot Terran artist, Michael Warren. An installation team, the rehabilitation construction gang, the Minister of Historic Preservation and the Mayor of Syracusica will gather at the construction site for the "Ceremonial Driving of the Golden Rivets" that will mark the official completion of the project. A tour of the Federation Assembly Hall for the delegates and staff of each of the 12 Outer Dust Ring planets represented will commence immediately following the Gateway Ribbon Cutting. As the delegates take their seats and begin their governance activities, the general public will be admitted to the Citizens Gallery located in the Horseshoe Mezzanine above the hallowed hall. If you're looking for an historic event to kick off your travel and leisure plans this season, this is the opportunity of a lifetime! Designated tourism agents are standing by to assist you.

Seeding the Sectors -

2007-10-14T10:05:00.000-07:00

"Thread the Needle"
digital drawing & collage by Mick Mather

SYSTEM EDGE, K-Line - The Ministry of Science & Future Technology will be sending a study group to K-Line later this year. This is the furthest afield of the 12 official worlds that comprise the Outer Dust Rings as well as it's most inhospitable. Except for the fact that the largest jump gate ever discovered is located here, it is unlikely that K-Line would ever have qualified for the atmosphere processors that now make it habitable. Most of the activity at this planet-size gate is little more than dust and particle streamers, the odd space rock, comets, asteroids and - once upon a time - Waterworld came through this portal. There has been a particular spike of electromagnetic measurements in the sector and it is hypothesized that another event is to be expected soon. An artists rendition of the gate, nicknamed Thread the Needle, shows what scientists believe to be a typical flight path and what the magnetic array surrounding the port during an event might look like. Only scientific excursions are currently allowed to K-Line but if enough interest can be generated, tourist class transport seats may become available at the time of real activity in the sector.

Battle Front: The Tanak Wars -

2007-10-07T07:45:00.000-07:00

"On the Deck in a Hot Landing Zone"
digital collage by Mick Mather

TANAK, Fire Fight - A rare photograph of The Sloganeer taken as he piloted the SSCV -Sub Space Combat Vehicle - "Freedom" during an early battle on Tanak before air support was little more than an odd memory. With controls for a pilot and a navigator the famed Robert Robert Robert was, in this instance, able to get a series of in-flight combat mission photographs as part of a low level troop support operation. These combat craft were modified from the EADS-designed subspace jet, The Astrium, used for early space tourism on Terra. Redesigned for low-level support and reconnaissance runs, they were equally effective for sub space attacks on incoming enemy transports and fighters. The contact sheets of this documentation were discovered in a wastebasket that had been relegated to the back of a closet at an old ground support field mechanics shed. Its value as a historic record is unquestioned with the added bonus of having another dozen actual photographs of the infamous mercenary whose efforts in leading the guerrilla resistance were crucial in turning the tide against the invading horde. A new exhibition is planned for immediate display at The Tanak Wars Museum.

Ministry of Education: School of Architecture -

2007-09-30T11:00:00.000-07:00

"Close to Zero"

book jacket design by Mick Mather

DERBY, Ministry of Education - The bestseller on architectural engineering practices in low-gravity environments has recently been revised by Professor Dona Churnow. Publication of the second edition is pending - awaiting a decision by The University of Derby to use their own imprint again or move the tome to an outside publisher. The dust jacket, shown here, has also been redesigned by Michael Warren, the well known ex patriot Terran artist. An exhibition of the original painting is being planned when a release date has been confirmed.

Derby Historical Society -

2007-09-15T10:11:00.000-07:00

"Star Baby Plasma Units - Maximum Postcard"
digital collage & artistamp design by Mick Mather

DERBY, The Derby Historical Society - The recent discovery of historic, private papers belonging to Princess Odelia of Derby uncovered a sought after 'maximum postcard'. Considered a rarity by philatelists and deltiologists as well as military historians, this pristine piece will be transported by The Kings Guard to an honored place in the Exhibition Display of the Tanak Wars. It is believed to be addressed to Princess Odelia in the hand of the legendary mercenary soldier known as The Sloganeer. There is no message on the back and no cancellation of the postage stamp, giving rise to the theory that this is but one of many postcards purchased and addressed but never sent. Only one other card of this type attributed to the mercenary exists and remains in the estate of Robert Robert Robert. The famed pilot, navigator and personal friend of The Sloganeer was a philatelist - known across two parsecs for his assortment of acquisitions - and that tattered, blood-stained collectible resides in his personal collection. Managed by the Robert Estate Trust, negotiations to exhibit the war torn postcard alongside the one shown here are underway. A ceremonial service on the anniversary of the armistice of that terrible conflict is expected to occur.

Stairway To Heaven -

2007-09-09T12:02:00.000-07:00

"Bold Moon Ascending the Stairway"
digital collage by Mick Mather

FOREVERLAND, The Stairway to Heaven - Recent acquisitions by the Outer Dust Rings Art Museum - currently on view in the contemporary wing - include this piece by the expatriate Terran artist, Michael Warren. There has been much interest in the worm hole gates - known as jump ports - over the centuries since their discovery. This rendition of the jump port nearest Foreverland shows one of its moons as it crosses in front of the stair-like structure. Myth and legend have long since referred to this portal as the Stairway to Heaven, because, as it is written, the other end of this particular worm hole lies in deep space where Heaven itself is believed to be located. When the first astronomers discovered the unique physical structure of The Stairway some weight of truth was quickly applied to what had heretofore been relegated to the status of faith-enhanced remote viewing, traditional fables and superstition. The Museum is located in Oopsville, Derby and their hours run 24 hours a day Tuesday thru Saturday - closing at midnight thru to midnight Monday.

Star Cradle of Tanak -

2007-09-02T09:21:00.000-07:00

"Starbirth"

digitally manipulated photograph & digital drawing by Mick Mather

TANAK, The Star Cradle - The eccentric orbit of Tanak brings it closer than any of the other Outer Dust Ring planets to that area of space where stars are born. The recent discovery of a rogue planet and its companion, as they transit a forming star, is making Tanak a scientific and tourist destination. Teams of experts have been assembled by the Ministry of Science and Future Technology with the express purpose of studying a phenomena of symbiosis never before seen. As this rogue planet and her moon come into close proximity of the new star - dubbed Egg, Egbert and RM214 respectively by the study group - it is becoming apparent the magnetic fields of each orb and the infant star are affecting each other. All current indications point to the unusual occurrence where Egg and Egbert will merge with the ionized plasma to create the star's core. This raises many questions and many new theories - will the moon continue to orbit within the star and what effects would that have on the core layers, the surface and the corona. Why not plan your visit to Tanak today and be part of this amazing conversation of discovery!

Clouds of Plenty -

2007-08-20T05:49:00.001-07:00

"Harvest Aurora on Derby"
digitally manipulated photograph by Mick Mather

DERBY, The Harvest Festival - Once again, as Waterworld draws closer to Derby, you can expect to view spectacular displays in the sky during The Harvest Festival. Every three years this close proximity of two extraordinary worlds initiates a game of hide and seek with a light show! Collisions between atmospheric gases and showers of electrons and protons guided by their intersecting magnetic fields set the skies aglow. As can be seen in this artists rendition of one spectacular auroral formation documented by the Ministry of Science & Future Technology a trip to Derby will be especially rewarding this year. For family fun and an educational package available nowhere else, now is the time to plan your festival vacation.

Ancient Burial Ground Discovered on LTK -

2007-08-12T19:03:00.000-07:00

"Burial Sink"
digitally manipulated photograph by Mick Mather
- original photograph by Rosewitha Schacht & listed at Morgue File -

LTK, Ministry of Ancient Antiquities - Recent archaeological finds in the semi-arid hill country on LTK has fostered a commitment for an upgraded preservation policy and increased funding to the Burial Sink Museum. As seen in this artists rendition of the only complete and undisturbed Burial Sink found to date, bodies of the deceased are carefully prepared and wrapped with indigenous animal hide - always a single skin, fur side in. Carefully laid within a half meter deep depression, called a sink, most burial sites contain a family group, usually less than three generations. For the amateur archaeologist or those with a keen interest in ancient history and anthropology, consider making your next visit to LTK as a "dig team volunteer".

(Further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, historic documents, arts & culture, myth & legend, etc. is requested - please scroll to the bottom of this page for details and contact info)

Star Cradle Transit -

2007-08-04T11:33:00.000-07:00

"In Transit"
digital collage by Mick Mather

original layer image by Emmi Pulkki

DERBY, Ministry of Tourism - A partnership with The Outer Dust Rings Science Foundation posts dozens of school age youth to the annual "Transit Camp" held each year during The Alignment of the 12 Festival. The illustration shown here was provided by the Digital Image Club whose beautifully prepared souvenir booklet sports this image of the planet Tracks as it majestically transits the Star Cradle. This hot spot of gas, dust, plasma and ionized particles that birthed our planetary system billions of trillions of years ago is, according to the Ministry of Science & Future Technology, soon to produce a new gas giant. Soon, in astronomical terms, may not mean within our lifetime but this photograph clearly shows the magnetic field signature of the expected new planet. Students and their families are encouraged to apply now for the limited slots in this year's Transit Camp when Waterworld is expected to cross in front of the Star Cradle while exhibiting whorls and streamers of water vapor, magnetic storms and other physical anomalies that have been under investigation for a thousand years.

(Further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, historic documents, arts & culture, myth & legend, etc. is requested - please scroll to the bottom of this page for details and contact info)

ODR Council for the Arts: Festival Poster Design Competition Winner Preview -

2007-07-22T09:55:00.001-07:00

"Festival Poster #1"

digital collage by Mick Mather

DERBY, ODR Arts Council Competition Headquarters - The anticipated poster for this year's "Alignment of the 12 Festival" has been chosen. The design artist and winner of this years competition is Michael Warren, an immigrant from Terra and current resident of Commondale on Derby. This authorized preview contains no information on the Festival itinerary but the Ministry of Tourism, in concert with the Festival Committee, assures us that the official release will contain all pertinent information.

(Further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, historic documents, arts & culture, myth & legend, etc. is requested - please scroll to the bottom of this page for details and contact info)

FIRST DAY of ISSUE -

2007-07-13T10:55:00.000-07:00

"Commemorative: Oil Discovered on LTK (Block-of-4)"
artistamp design by Mick Mather

LTK, Outer Dust Rings Federated Postal Service - The Postmaster General of LTK has announced that the First Day Ceremony, commemorating the discovery of oil in the Northern Provinces, will be moved up. The recent flap over a mirage of what appeared to be an invading horde has created a major spike in tourism and travel to visit the historic location where the 100 Years War began. Hundreds of scientists and their research assistants are already living in a tent city at the coordinates of the recent magnetic anomaly causing a sharp increase in the need for postal services. "Additional tourist traffic has also increased", the PG stated in a press release, "and we've sent a special team to handle this unexpected influx." Please adjust your planning calendars and mark the date of August 1st, to reflect the new First Day of Issue. The original October 7th date continues to be set aside for another special event to be revealed at the Commemorative Issue Bourse Office during the ceremonial release.

(Further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, historic documents, arts & culture, myth & legend, etc. is requested - please scroll to the bottom of this page for details and contact info)

ODR Wire Service Special Report -

2007-07-07T08:33:00.002-07:00

"Crossing the Line"
digitally manipulated photograph by Mick Mather

LTK, Great Northern Oil Fields, ODR NEWSWIRE - Initial reports that invaders have once again taken control of the oil fields on LTK now appear to be false. A magnetic anomaly triggered a ghost image of a past event that witnesses said appeared to be another invasion. According to Caitlin O'Leary, a Great Northern Oil customer service representative, "a host of armed foot soldiers charged straight for us through a reddish, lined and mottled haze". The actual attack that is said to have ignited the 100 Years Civil War occurred at those specific coordinates. "We turned en masse and headed for the armory," another witness said, "and we were relieved to hear that it was nothing more than a rogue ion stream combined with an extremely potent magnetic spike that caused the mirage". This sort of apparition is quite common among the Sand Mountains at Oopsville on Derby but quite rare on LTK. This false alarm, while frightening, served as a warning to ever maintain vigilance, even during days as peaceful as these.

(Further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, historic documents, arts & culture, myth & legend, etc. is requested - please scroll to the bottom of this page for details and contact info)

Susu Islands -

2007-06-17T19:08:00.000-07:00

"Susu Islands"
montage and digitally manipulated photograph by Mick Mather
(original photograph - top - by SusuPetal)

NEW WORLD YORK, Susu Islands - The Outer Dust Rings Federated Postal Service in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism has announced plans for a joint release of a philatelic passport. This first-in-a-series of mini-stamp collector albums - as part of the "Your Paradise" campaign - will feature The Susu Islands of New World York. Famous for it's tropical atmosphere, miles of sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, this out-of-the-way island paradise is perfect for swimming, diving, boating or casual beach combing. Each page of your personal passport will have a place for local postage stamps and will be annotated with the official mark of the local tourist authority. 12 different postal commemoratives and official rubber stamp imprints will be available at specified locations - such as "Sunset Bay" (shown). The close proximity of each individual island and the availability of every form of transport in this group makes for an ideal family vacation. Send your request for further information and your FREE collector album today. Let your adventure begin!

(My sincere thanks to SusuPetal for permission to use and manipulate her photograph - the top image seen in this post - further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, historic documents, arts & culture, myth & legend, etc. is requested - please scroll to the bottom of this page for details and contact info)

New Currency -

2007-06-10T19:48:00.000-07:00

"Mud People of Jericho"
montage by Mick Mather

JERICHO, Anthroplogy Theme on Jericho Currency - Coined money on Jericho has been scheduled for recall by the ODR Federated Mint. Soaring costs of precious metals following the 100 Years Civil War has fostered the introduction of a new, plastic-based currency, already being introduced as the recall begins. The One Dollar denomination (shown) is perforated and all 28 segments can be detached as needed. Already referred to as the 'Mud Penny', each segment features the common image of one of the ancient 'Mud People' whose descendants still exist in the arid regions of the planet. Anthropologically speaking, the mud people are a reptilian evolutionary anomaly found only on Jericho. The strict enforcement prohibiting movement of the old, metal currency off-planet will be lifted upon final recall and tourism initiatives aimed at attracting banknote collectors from across the system are being planned.

*(further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, etc. is requested - please leave additions in the comment box)

Ministry of Tourism -

2007-06-01T17:37:00.000-07:00

"Derby Sunset"
digitally manipulated photograph by Mick Mather

DERBY, Where the Sun Burns Down the Sky Every Night - The Ministry of Tourism will release a new series of post cards to kick off the "Sunset Season" as part of the "Your Paradise" campaign. Beginning next month, a commemorative postage stamp will be issued by the Outer Dust Rings Federated Postal Service and unveiled at a First Day of Issue Ceremony in the village of Commondale during the Alignment of the 12 Festival. All items - the postage stamp, post card and a Maximum Card First Day Cover - will be available during, and for 30 days after, the event. Planning a trip to Derby? Now is the perfect time. Welcome Home to Your Paradise!

*(further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, etc. is requested - please leave additions in the comment box)

Historical Antiquities -

2007-05-19T20:27:00.001-07:00

"Dreaming the Glyphs of Tanak"
montage by Mick Mather

TANAK, The Ancient Glyphs - The Ministry of Ancient Antiquities has announced that a cache of hieroglyphic tablets, never before seen, has been installed at The Tanak Museum and will remain on view indefinitely. This exhibition will afford an opportunity for these particular tablets to be viewed and examined, with an appointment to request special permission for access. A post card featuring one of the clay tablets with Professor Gillian "Gil" O'Casey super-imposed on it is one of seven cards on sale at the Museum Shop. Professor O'Casey was instrumental in translating this group of tablets and will preside over a lecture series to be presented over the course of the next two years. All presentations will be recorded and archived but those who wish to attend in person are urged to make reservations now. Send all requests and inquiries to The Ministry of Ancient Antiquities.

*(further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, etc. is requested - please leave additions in the comment box)

Portal Ruin on Waterworld -

2007-05-12T19:59:00.000-07:00

"Ancient Portal Ruin"
montage by Mick Mather

WATERWORLD, Undersea Tours - The diving season is always "just around the corner" on Waterworld. Tours to the oldest Jump Portal in the Outer Dust Rings is an undersea adventure that the entire family will want to revisit early and often. Our dive bus fleet and The Zero Defects Team will take you to the Ancient Portal Ruin in comfort and safety. Tailored to suit even the most restrictive budget, a wide variety of package tours have been designed with you in mind. Pioneer Club Discounts for the storm seasons make this attraction even more affordable with a value-added risk factor - always popular with the adventure seeker! Operators are standing by to assist in registering your stay at Waterworld's Orbital Jump House. Contact them, or your agent, now!

*(further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, etc. is requested - please leave additions in the comment box)

The Robert Sketch -

2007-05-05T04:41:00.000-07:00

"Robert R. Robert Sketch"
montage by Mick Mather

DERBY, Veterans Museum - During the darkest hours of the Tanak Wars, the discovery of the first Jump Port on Earth afforded opportunities for diplomatic couriers and, eventually, military assistance. At that time entire ships went through the jump gates, requiring the steady hand and intuitive reactions of a skilled pilot/navigator. The most famous of these was Robert Robert Robert, a savant whose talent was in the practical application of the Mandelbrot and chaos theory mathematics required to navigate star ships through the gates. This years "Robbie Day" celebration will feature the unveiling of a Historical Document that was previously believed to have been little more than military scuttlebutt - the original anatomical drawing of the Jump Gate at Antarctica Station. Seen here, above the CAD image that went into every flight manual at that time, it was so accurate that the drawing itself, as well as the military post containing the coordinate parameters of this portal, has become known as The Robert Sketch.

The Crossing -

2007-04-28T06:06:00.000-07:00

"The Crossing"
mixed media collage by Art Nahpro

VETERAN'S HOME, Tanak - An old footlocker at The Veteran's Home of Painted Post, Tanak, gave up it's treasure at the recent "Alignment of the Twelve Festival". This old artwork was purchased by the infamous mercenary soldier, The Sloganeer, who carried it with him into scores of campaigns, battles and skirmishes while fighting to keep Tanak and her Indigenous People free. It has been told that the dream described in the poem was an allegory for his own recurring nightmare of sorts. In the end, "beguiled" he most surely was, having been smitten by the Beautiful Princess of Derby - with whom he had a life long love affair although they never married. Between them, each departure for the next field of battle was referenced as "The Crossing". In her memoirs, The Princess relates that each parting was sealed with a kiss and a whisper into his deaf ear, "Return to your Lonesome Princess".

*(First - my sincere thanks to Paul Jackson, Keith Bates & Art Nahpro for permission to use the image seen in this post - further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, historic documents, arts & culture, myth & legend, etc. is requested - please leave additions in the comment box)

Minister of Historical Archives -

2007-04-20T12:28:00.000-07:00

"Polar Array On Tanak"
digital collage by Mick Mather

TANAK, South Polar Array - The Historical Archives, in concert with the Ministry of Tourism, have released a packet of souvenir post cards to promote off-season visits to the South Polar Region of Tanak. The recent construction of a modern "Jump House" was completed on schedule and under budget, opening the door of opportunity for the Minister of Historical Archives to upgrade the museum and exhibition spaces housed in the original, now retired, structure. The first card in the series shows the impressive array of old technology associated with this particular jump port and a hint at the astounding southern, polar skies. Brooding and beautiful, this is a sight that you and your family will enjoy and relish for a lifetime.

*(further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, historic documents, arts & culture, myth & legend, etc. is requested - please leave additions in the comment box)

Ministry of Tourism -

2007-04-13T12:00:00.000-07:00

"Clouds of Dust"
digital collage by Mick Mather

OUTER DUST RINGS, The Dark Door - One of the most beautiful sights in the system can be viewed from Jump Port Station ODR - known as The Dark Door, this area is an exit/entry to a wormhole whose opposite end is within the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. The belt itself, thought by some to be a planet exploded by some ancient catastrophe is clearly, from the perspective of ODR Scientists, a planet that has not formed. Probably due to the wormhole and it's disruptive energies. Whether traveling from The Belt to The Rings or vice versa, travelers are encouraged to save a few hours to visit the observation bubbles and see this wondrous array of all the 12 planets that make up the Outer Dust Rings.

*(further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, historic & documents, arts & culture, myth & legend, etc. is requested - please leave additions in the comment box)

Ancient Archaeological Sites -

2007-04-05T20:18:00.000-07:00

"Hovering Pearl of the Royal Forecourt"
digitally manipulated photograph by Mick Mather

DERBY, Standing Stones, The Royal Forecourt and The Hovering Pearl - The oldest known ortholiths in the Outer Dust Rings system harbor a mystery, the "Hovering Pearl". Situated at the base of the Royal Forecourt, this iridescent globe is believed to be as old as the universe itself. It hovers at the exact height of 1 meter above these ancient ruins and is believed to be the origin of the psionic powers achieved by most inhabitants of the Outer Dust Rings. The yearly pilgrimage to this historical and religious burial ground by the faithful has continued, unabated, throughout the centuries.

*(further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, historic & cultural documents, etc. is requested - please leave additions in the comment box)

Historical Site Considered for Commemorative Postage Stamp -

2007-03-31T19:18:00.000-07:00

"Jump House"
digital collage by Mick Mather

DERBY, Outer Dust Rings Federated Postal Service - An historical photograph of the first Jump Portal on Derby was recently uncovered in an old filing cabinet at the abandoned Government Services Annex in Pottersby Crossing. The annex was once a bustle of activity approving visas, passports and diplomatic couriers. So busy that a hotel was built for the extended stay required when such approvals caused lengthier and lengthier waits. The original name, Hotel DuJour, went out of use almost immediately and has long been referred to instead, as Jump House. A generic term now, any facility used for a stay while waiting to access a Teleport is referred to as Jump House. Finding this photo has led to an official application to the Postal Service for a commemorative postage stamp. A small group of Peace Activists are attempting to block any approval, citing the appearance of the legendary Mercenary Soldier, The Sloganeer, in the photograph. Excited at the reference, not immediately noticed by the historic committee, the image seems to be gaining support from veterans of the Tanak Wars. Visits to the ruin continue to increase in popularity and transport from Derby to Pottersby Crossing have increased.

*(further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, etc. is requested - please leave additions in the comment box)

Derby Tourism: Harvest Home of The Queen -

2007-03-24T09:15:00.000-07:00

"The Great Agrarian Home of the Queen"
digital collage by Mick Mather

DERBY, Harvest House - In centuries past, Harvest House was the destination of a great pilgrimage. The indigious people share psionic powers, by the least as well as the greatest, that are thought to hail from The King and Queen, via fertility rites held during the harvest times at The Great Agrarian Home. The truth of this power is firmly rooted within, and traceable to evolutionary advances that have in no way affected the annual *pilgrimages, festivals or religious rituals.

*(further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, etc. is requested - please leave additions in the comment box)

The Lost Son Shrine of Derby -

2007-03-15T11:45:00.000-07:00

"Temporal Fountain of The Lost Son"
digital collage by Mick Mather

DERBY, Shrine of the Lost Son - Putting the physics of the Shrine aside for a moment, this fountain has long been a temporal portal which the sons and daughters of Derby did often put to use. Rightly or wrongly, the traversing from one side of the portal to the other was not always in the best interest of themselves, their immediate families nor the greater community. Being an agriculturally based society, Derby was, for the elder children of many farmers, a boring place to grow up. An old story is this, where the reckless few abandoned their responsibilities as well as their homes in selfish, pleasurable pursuits, squandering earnings, savings, even entire inheritances before returning home. The "other side", so called, was a fascinating place full of diversions and excitement enough to keep a young wanderer busy for years. Until very recently the exact location of the place was a mystery*, known only as "Earth", third planet from a Class "G" star known as the sun.

*(further information, star maps, system maps, jump gate locations, etc. is requested - please leave additions in the comment box)

Discovery! The Outer Dust Rings -

2007-03-13T12:12:00.000-07:00

"Commemorative: Outer Dust Rings (Block-of-4)"

artistamp design by Mick Mather

The mystery of discovery regarding this rather strange planetary system has, seemingly, begun.Who? What? Where? When? Why? How? Good questions all and yet the only thing that I have to go on now is this block of 4 postage stamps purchased for more than I wanted to pay at a bourse in a city that I shan't reveal. I can say this, there are other commemoratives in the lot purchased and each have obvious clues...so, let's examine these carefully. As I await answers to an official inquiry, recently sent through appropriate government channels, the floor is yours. Ideas, comments, theories and other information can be left by clicking the comments link below.