Babel

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Babel
Astronomical Location
Quadrant Alpha Quadrant
System Wolf 424
Physical Characteristic
Classification Class D
Equatorial Radius 1247 km
Surface Gravity .77g
Rotational Period 18 hours
Moons 8
Additional Information
Affiliation United Federation of Planets
Native Race(s) N/A
Population 37,000
  [Source]



Babel is a small planetoid located in the Wolf 424 star system, considered "neutral space" by the powers of the Alpha Quadrant. It is located on the far end of Andorian space, not far from Tellar Prime. The closest inhabited planet is Theta III. This rather non-descript body became a venue for diplomatic affairs and conferences as early as 2087, although it wasn't officially named until 2154. Delegates of the United Earth used the code name "Babel" (a reference from Earth's Christian bible) in secret diplomatic channels at the time, and the name stuck.

The first important talks came about that same year, when some priority negotiations between the Andorians and Tellarites was mediated by the United Earth and observed by the Vulcans. The Romulans attempted to disrupt the talks, and they were briefly postponed until the threat subsided. (ENT: "Babel One") In 2268, the issue of Coridan's admission into the new United Federation of Planets was debated here, as were the Babel Resolutions in which the founding members established a set of goals to ensure peace and prosperity. By the time of this first Babel Conference, the little world had a fully operational diplomatic community, complete with embassies and other governmental facilities. (Original Series: "Journey to Babel") It was decided that Babel would become the Federation Council's "home away from home" and a complete second council chambers, office complex, and support infrastructure was built within five years. Many council members that couldn't handle prolonged residence on Earth (physiologically or by choice) took up residence on Babel.

Commodore Robert April officially retired on the planet in 2270, among a huge gathering of ambassadors and other well-wishers from around the galaxy.

Peace negotiations between the Federation and the Klingon Empire where held here throughout the 2280s, overseen by the great diplomat Ambassador Robert Fox. By the end of the 23rd Century, Starfleet had constructed Babel Station to support diplomatic operations on the planet and a large portion of the Diplomatic Corps is trained and housed here to this day.