| PLANETARY CLASSIFICATION | |
| Class M | |
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| Classification: | Terrestrial |
| Age: | 3-10 billion years |
| Diameter: | 10,000-15,000 km |
| Location: | Ecosphere |
| Surface: | Surface water abundant, but less than 80% |
| Atmosphere: | Nitrogen, oxygen, trace elements |
| Evolution: | None |
| Lifeforms: | Extensive vegetation, animal life, humanoids |
![]() Section through a class M world |
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The Class M (or Minshara-class) planet is the most stable type for humanoid habitation. Class M planets may feature large areas of water, if water or ice covers more than 80% of surface then the planet is considered Class O or Class P. (ST reference: Star Trek: Star Charts)
Class M planets range in age from 3 to 10 billion years old. Their diameters range in size from 10,000 to 15,000 km. They are always located in the ecozone region of a star's solar system. Their surfaces are comprised with a relatively thin tectonic layer floating on a molten rock mantle, usually with active volcanoes present. Class M planets have an abundant amount of water necessary for life to exist. Their atmospheres contain oxygen/nitrogen with other trace gases. Life forms are almost always present, flourishing as extensive plant and animal life. Usually a sentient race is also present.
Class M planets are also called Minshara Class, a Vulcan term.
Planets with more than 80% surface water fall under Class O or Class P. (Star Trek: Star Charts)
A Class M was a planet with an oxygen/nitrogen atmosphere.
This is likely a reference to the Class M planet designation from Star Trek.
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