Pandorus

Pandorus is a fictional planet featured in the popular science fiction franchise Mass Effect. It is a terrestrial world located in the Hades Nexus cluster, a region known for its volatile nebulae and dangerous conditions. Pandorus is primarily a mining colony, established by the human Systems Alliance to exploit the planet's rich deposits of rare minerals, particularly omni-gel precursors. The harsh environment of Pandorus, characterized by frequent seismic activity and a thin, toxic atmosphere, makes for a challenging and perilous living and working condition for its inhabitants.

The planet gained significant notoriety due to an outbreak of the devastating rachni plague that occurred on one of its orbital stations, Pandorus Station. This event, which took place prior to the First Contact War, led to a quarantine of the entire system and resulted in the loss of thousands of lives. The pandorus outbreak is often cited as a key factor in humanity's subsequent development of advanced anti-bioweapon technologies and a more cautious approach to interstellar expansion. Despite its perilous nature and the tragic history, Pandorus remains a vital source of resources for the Systems Alliance, with ongoing efforts to maintain and secure its mining operations. Its strategic importance, coupled with its dangerous reputation, makes Pandorus a notable location within the Mass Effect universe.