MOOCalustoilla

MOOCalustoilla is a fictional biogeographic region and research enclave in the science fiction setting of the MOO Confederation. It is located on the equatorial highlands of the moon Calusta, and encompasses a karst landscape featuring extensive limestone cave systems, subterranean rivers, and a surface plateau known as the Calusta Table. The area is notable for its bioluminescent ecosystems and mineral formations that glow in the absence of daylight.

The cavern networks extend hundreds of kilometers and host troglobitic species and microbats. Bioluminescent fungi and algae provide natural light inside tunnels, while microbial mats on mineral surfaces create reflective lumen zones used by researchers. The climate on the plateau is arid, with damp caves that maintain stable humidity.

MOOCalustoilla was surveyed in the early 22nd century by the MOO Exploration Directorate and quickly designated a protected sci-cultural zone. It falls under the Calusta Prefecture within the MOO Territorial Assembly, with restricted access to protect sensitive habitats and ongoing experiments.

The enclave hosts a small research population, ecotourism programs focused on cave tours and night-time bioluminescence displays, and a light-mineral mining operation under strict environmental oversight. The cultural profile emphasizes cave literacy, subterranean art inspired by glow zones, and multilingual signage for researchers and visitors.

Key sites include the Lumen Dome, Crystal Bridges, and the Glowing Arches. Ongoing research covers cave microbiology, mineralogy, and the ecology of troglobionts, with data shared through the MOO Open Science Network.