Areta

Areta, the hollow planet

## introduction

Areta is a breathtaking world reminiscent of Earth in many ways. Its surface is adorned with diverse biomes, featuring everything from lush forests and towering mountains to expansive plains and serene lakes. However, the planet's visage is not without its marks, bearing the scars of ancient meteor impacts that tell tales of long-forgotten celestial events.

Beneath the familiar surface, Areta unveils a mysterious subterranean wonder. The planet's interior hosts vast, cavernous networks akin to a colossal, interconnected sponge, and as you delve deeper, gravity gradually lessens. Each underground cavern harbors a distinct ecology and water cycle, leading to the creation of misty rainforests, dense jungles, and enchanted forests below the surface. These subterranean realms also house grand fungal expanses, shadowy abysses, arid deserts, and traditional caves, all illuminated by the ethereal glow of bioluminescent flora and fauna.

Areta's unique character doesn't end there. From time to time, the planet's underground clouds find their way to the surface through "cloud volcanoes," which serve as mystical gateways to the hidden world below. These natural phenomena not only add to the planet's intrigue but also offer glimpses into the enigmatic subterranean realms that have captured the imaginations of those fortunate enough to explore them.

This is just a brief introduction to Areta, and as we delve deeper into this article, we will uncover the many facets that make this planet a captivating and enchanting world in its own right.

## Etymology

Areta, not to be confused with earth, has a name for sure.

## Natural history

### Formation

Originating within a stellar nursery rich in interstellar gas and particulate matter, Areta's formation was initiated by gravitational forces, leading to the aggregation of these particles into a protoplanetary disk encircling a young, luminous star. Over extensive time scales, particle collisions and consolidation resulted in the creation of planetesimals, which then continued to coalesce, eventually giving rise to the rudimentary structure of Areta.

As Areta matured, the planet underwent differentiation, marked by the development of distinct layers. Heat generated by gravitational compression and radioactive decay led to the formation of an inner core composed of molten rock and metal, surrounded by a silicate mantle. Areta's surface crust formed subsequently in varying layers.

Throughout its formative phase, Areta was subject to meteoritic impacts, which left enduring impressions on the planet's surface, influencing its topographical and geological characteristics.

Areta's formation, following established planetary formation principles, has shaped this world into a distinctive and scientifically intriguing celestial body.

### Starfall

The Starfall event was a cataclysmic occurrence in the history of Areta, brought about a transformative chapter in the planet's geological and ecological evolution. Starfall was characterized by the descent of meteor-like stars, careening through the atmosphere to impact Areta's surface with tremendous force.

As these celestial bodies plunged from the heavens, they struck the planet's crust with unparalleled energy, giving rise to a multitude of craters, mountain ranges, and islands. The impacts of these starfalls resulted in the deformation of the planet's surface, sculpting its topography in distinctive and dramatic ways.

Some of the most colossal starfalls managed to penetrate through the initial layers of Areta's crust, providing entry points to the labyrinthine underground caverns. This event had profound consequences, initiating the colonization and alteration of the subterranean realms as the meteor-like stars punctured the surface and revealed the enigmatic world below.

The Starfall event, a testament to the relentless forces of the universe, left an indelible mark on Areta, shaping both its surface and the mysterious depths beneath. The craters, mountains, islands, and entrances to the subterranean worlds serve as enduring reminders of this dramatic celestial event that continues to capture the imagination of all who study the planet.

### Origin of life and evolution

One prevailing theory posits that the first spark of life on Areta may have occurred in the planet's primordial oceans. These ancient waters, rich in the essential building blocks of life, provided a fertile crucible for the chemical reactions that would eventually give rise to living organisms. Complex organic molecules, such as amino acids and nucleic acids, may have formed through a series of prebiotic processes, potentially catalyzed by the energy from lightning strikes or hydrothermal vents.

Over immense stretches of time, these simple organic molecules could have undergone further transformations, eventually evolving into the first rudimentary life forms. Early microorganisms, such as single-celled bacteria or archaea, might have emerged in response to selective pressures, adapting to the conditions of Areta's evolving environment.

The mystery surrounding the exact pathways and mechanisms that led to life's inception on Areta parallels the ongoing enigma of life's origins on Earth. Researchers continue to explore and test various hypotheses, driven by the common goal of unraveling the intricacies of this fundamental cosmic question.

Areta's journey from a lifeless world to one teeming with diverse ecosystems is a testament to the tenacity of life and the profound processes at play in the cosmos. The evolution of life on Areta, while rooted in uncertainty, mirrors the captivating narrative of life's emergence on our own planet, Earth.

## Geophysical characteristics

### Size and Shape

Areta is a celestial body with dimensions that exceed Earth's, resulting in a larger physical presence. Its shape is that of a well-defined, oblate spheroid, reflecting a uniform and imposing mass distribution.

### Internal Structure

Areta's internal structure is characterized by a complex, sponge like composition, punctuated by extensive caverns and caves that riddle the planet's depths. These underground spaces create a unique geological profile, harboring a myriad of ecosystems and natural formations.

### Chemical Composition

The planet's chemical composition mirrors that of rocky worlds, featuring a predominance of silicate materials in its crust and mantle. The metallic elements, abundant in the planet's core, interact with various silicate compounds on the surface. This blend of materials serves as the foundation for the planet's geological and biological diversity.

### Internal Heat

Areta's internal heat originates from two primary sources: gravitational compression and the natural decay of radioactive elements within its core. This heat fuels geological activity and contributes to the subterranean environments, driving their water cycles and ecological intricacies.

### Gravitational Field:

The gravitational field of Areta is substantial, ensuring that the planet's atmosphere remains intact. It governs the tides, offering stability to the planet's geophysical processes and providing the necessary conditions for life to thrive.

### Magnetic Field

Areta is enveloped by a magnetic field, shielding the planet from the effects of solar radiation and cosmic particles. This magnetic protective shield is an essential component in maintaining the planet's habitability, safeguarding both its surface and underground ecosystems.

## Orbit and rotations

### Rotation

Areta follows a well-defined rotation, bestowing upon the planet the gift of day and night. As the celestial body spins on its axis, a cycle of alternating light and darkness envelops its surface. The rotation period, along with the planet's gravitational characteristics, significantly influences the length of days and nights across different regions, contributing to the diversity of Areta's ecosystems and climates.

### Orbit

Areta follows an orbital path around its parent star, resulting in the measurement of its year. The planet's orbit is characterized by a specific distance from its sun, providing a stable and suitable environment for life to thrive. This orbital configuration also plays a pivotal role in shaping the planet's weather patterns and seasonal variations.

### Axial Tilt and Seasons

Areta's axial tilt is a key determinant of its seasons. The planet's axial tilt, along with its orbital path, results in seasonal variations, impacting temperature, climate, and the planet's ecosystems. As Areta orbits its parent star, the angle of sunlight changes, giving rise to distinct seasons, including spring, summer, autumn, and winter. These seasonal transitions have a profound influence on the planet's ecology, impacting the behavior of flora and fauna across the various biomes and regions of Areta.

## Areta-moon systems

### Moon 1: Lysara

Lysara, the closest natural satellite to Areta, is a barren and rocky world, with a surface characterized by numerous craters and rugged terrain. While Lysara itself is devoid of life, it exerts a gravitational influence on Areta, affecting the tides and contributing to the planet's ecological systems. Astronomers and researchers often study Lysara for insights into celestial processes and its interactions with Areta.

### Moon 2: Moon 2: Veridion

Veridion, the second moon in the Areta-moon system, orbits the planet at a moderate distance. This moon's surface is more complex and diverse, featuring mountainous regions, deep valleys, and large bodies of water. Veridion has shown signs of potential habitable environments, making it a subject of interest for scientists and explorers. Ongoing research aims to uncover the possibilities and ecological diversity of Veridion.

### Moon 3: Moon 3: Triluna and the Birth of Aretalith

Moon 3, originally named Triluna, held the distinction of being a habitable moon. Over millions of years, however, Triluna underwent a remarkable transformation. It gradually disintegrated, breaking apart into numerous smaller fragments. These fragments coalesced to form a breathtaking planetary ring around Areta, now known as "Aretalith." While Triluna's habitable days are long past, the legacy of its transformation is visible in the mesmerizing glow of Aretalith, which graces Areta's night sky with celestial beauty.

## Hydrosphere

### Surface Hydrosphere

Areta's surface hydrosphere is a dynamic and vital component of the planet's ecosystems. It encompasses the planet's vast bodies of liquid water, including oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, and streams. These surface waters are home to a myriad of aquatic life forms and play a pivotal role in supporting terrestrial ecosystems. Areta's surface hydrosphere also influences weather patterns, contributing to the formation of precipitation and the regulation of climate.

### Underground Hydrosphere

Areta's underground hydrosphere constitutes an enigmatic and distinct component of the planet's hydrological systems. Within the extensive cavernous networks that characterize the planet's subterranean realms, numerous underground rivers, aquifers, and bodies of water flow and pool. These underground waters create unique ecosystems within the caves and caverns, fostering the development of life adapted to this dark, subterranean environment. The interconnected nature of these underground water bodies also results in the formation of misty rainforests, jungles, and other subterranean biomes, adding to the planet's ecological diversity. The subterranean waters are often influenced by the planet's internal heat, creating dynamic and mysterious cycles within the cavernous depths.

## Atmosphere

### Weather and Climate

Areta's atmosphere is a dynamic medium, governing its weather patterns and climate. The planet experiences a wide range of climatic conditions, influenced by factors such as latitude, topography, and the planet's axial tilt. These elements lead to the creation of various climatic zones, including temperate regions, equatorial areas, and polar landscapes. The planet's weather is characterized by the interplay of air masses, the formation of atmospheric phenomena like clouds, precipitation, and storms, and the influence of Areta's oceans on temperature and weather patterns. The intricate climate systems give rise to a diverse array of ecosystems and biomes, each adapted to the unique conditions of their respective regions.

### Upper Atmosphere

Areta's upper atmosphere is an important realm, distinct from the planet's surface conditions. It extends above the lower atmospheric layers, comprising the stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere. The upper atmosphere plays a vital role in protecting the planet from harmful solar and cosmic radiation, thanks to the presence of an ozone layer. In this region, temperature and pressure decrease with increasing altitude, and it is home to various atmospheric phenomena, such as the formation of auroras and the interaction with solar winds. The upper atmosphere provides valuable insights into the planet's interactions with the cosmos and contributes to the overall complexity of Areta's atmospheric dynamics.

### Subterranean Atmosphere

Areta's subterranean atmosphere refers to the unique gaseous environment found within the extensive network of underground caverns and caves that permeate the planet's depths. This subterranean realm has distinct atmospheric conditions that differ significantly from the planet's surface atmosphere.

In contrast to the surface atmosphere, the subterranean atmosphere often features higher humidity levels, lower oxygen content, and a unique mix of gases. The underground caverns and chambers can foster the growth of bioluminescent organisms that contribute to the eerie but captivating ambience. The presence of underground water bodies and the planet's internal heat play a significant role in shaping the composition and properties of the subterranean atmosphere, influencing the ecology and the formation of underground weather patterns, including the creation of subterranean mist and microclimates.

The subterranean atmosphere is of great interest to scientists and researchers, offering a distinct and often mysterious environment that fosters unique life forms and geological processes. It adds to the planet's overall diversity and presents a fascinating area of study for those eager to uncover the secrets hidden beneath Areta's surface.