Omir

The planet Omir is the third planet, Federation designation B-975 III, in the B-975 star system on the border of the Alpha and Beta Quadrant, outside of Federation space. It's general geography has been charted, but the surface has not yet been surveyed in details due to the strange atmosphere. There is enough information to detect a pre-warp civilization so the Federation arranged treaties in the area to protect the planet from alien interference.

= Geography = Surveys show the general geography of the planet, including an expansive dry desert positioned on a large continent along the equator.

Dranse Desert
Humans will see similarties between Dranse and Earth flora and fauna, which have evolved to thrive in a dry, sandy desert. There are tall, spiny cactus-like plants that store moisture in their thick trunks, as well as bushy brushes, and sprawling vines that can cover an entire dune like an ankle-high forest.

There are small, reptile-like creatures, and large leggy insects.

Larger fauna include aggressive tusked omnivores and swift, long-legged herbivore pack animals. The apex predators have gone extinct.

Sandstorms present the most dangerous natural phenomenon. They can last anywhere from hours or days. They create black-out conditions and the blistering, blowing sand can injure anyone caught out.

= Atmosphere and interference = A complex atmosphere and a volatile planet core make communication from space to surface difficult. Ferengi scientists have figured out a method but as of 2381.11 have not shared it. The Federation hasn't looked into it because a) the planet is not in Federation space and b) no one is supposed to be on the surface to avoid violating the Prime Directive.

Other advanced technology is disrupted on the surface:
 * Scanning for life-forms within any proximity
 * Scanning at a distance of, say, further than the horizon
 * Communication between comm badges
 * Transporters

Things that do work
 * Radio
 * Radar
 * Short-range scanning for geological features and weather
 * Phasers

Basically, modern technology-at-range gets scrambled.

= Amba = A truly unique microbe is abundant in the desert. It's known as 'amba' by the local civilization who cultivated it as a renewable source of energy. It grows in large colonies in arid sand farms. It is harvested and processed. The origin of the word 'amba' has the same root as the word 'life'.

= Civilization = The people of Omir call themselves Ambirren.