stararchipelago

Stararchipelago is a concept used primarily in speculative astronomy and science fiction to describe a dispersed collection of star systems that are spatially separated by vast interstellar distances but share a common heritage or navigational framework, effectively forming an archipelago of stellar islands within a galaxy. It emphasizes the juxtaposition between autonomous systems and a broader network of routes, communications, or cultural ties that bind them.

In real astronomy, stararchipelago is not an official class; it functions as a metaphor or worldbuilding device. It can be imagined as arising from fragmentation of a larger star-forming complex, dispersal by galactic dynamics, or aggregation along planar structures such as spiral arms or stellar streams.

In fiction, stararchipelagos are often depicted with isolated hubs, long-distance transport corridors, and shared history or governance spanning many star systems. They serve as settings for exploration, diplomacy, and trade, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of coordinating across dispersed stellar communities.

See also: stellar streams, moving groups, open clusters, galactic structure.