First Wave

The First Wave was a period in human history that occurred between 2310 and 2362. It encompassed humanity's very first attempts at extra-solar colonization, with the settlement of 17 worlds in total, and also involved the detailed survey of other candidates. The period ended with the launch of the Odyssey fleet, drastically reducing the costs involved.

The First Wave was a time of great anticipation, excitement, and experimentation. While the experience in colonizing the various Sol bodies served as a starting point for the United Earth Government's efforts, the infancy of slipspace navigation introduced an element of risk. Each attempt was extremely expensive and based on speculative techniques, and while subsequent waves would be sent to each of the selected worlds, many efforts struggled or failed altogether. Colonists were very carefully selected from the best and brightest that humanity could offer, and each settler knew that their journey may be a one-way trip. However, the subsequent endeavors were analyzed and built on what was tried before, and this eventually seeded the way for the Domus Diaspora.

Back in Sol, tensions still brewed. Earth still struggled with overpopulation, and while many conflicts had died down, the introduction of the Shaw-Fujikawa Translight Engine has given some political minorities the chance to escape government control. With their hands full, the UNSC created the Colonial Military Administration to enforce peace and security in the colonies, as well as to lay down the foundations for military operations beyond Sol.

Notable events

 * 2310: The New Hampshire Expedition, the first fleet of colony ships, departs Sol for the Epsilon Eridani system. It was largely made up of surplus carriers and base ships refitted for the task.