Irákus

Irákus is a fictional celestial body featured in the science fiction novel "Starfall." It is depicted as a rogue planet, meaning it does not orbit a star and drifts through interstellar space. In the narrative, Irákus is discovered by a deep-space exploration vessel, the Odyssey, during a mission to chart unknown regions of the galaxy.

The planet is characterized by its unusual atmospheric composition and extreme geological activity. Initial scans reveal a dense atmosphere primarily composed of exotic gases, leading to peculiar optical phenomena and unpredictable weather patterns. The surface of Irákus is described as a desolate landscape marked by vast, unstable plains and towering, crystalline structures. These structures are thought to be formed by the rapid solidification of mineral-rich compounds under immense pressure and fluctuating temperatures.

The discovery of Irákus presents the crew of the Odyssey with both scientific opportunity and significant peril. The planet's gravitational pull is substantial, and its environment is hostile to life as understood by the explorers. Despite these challenges, the potential for unique scientific data drives the crew to attempt a closer study, leading to a series of events that form a central part of the novel's plot. The implications of finding a rogue planet like Irákus are explored, touching on theories of planetary formation and the potential for life in unconventional environments.