Ng-Laplace Scale

For Interaction with Newly-Discovered Worlds

0 — Dead world, no detectable biosphere. Permits unrestricted development.

1 — Early stage biosphere. Development usually possible.

2 — Complex biosphere. Generally includes large animals. Development restricted.

3 — Intelligent life at pre-technological levels. Development prohibited. Contact strictly regulated.

4 — Intelligent life, developed but planet bound. Development prohibited. Contact regulated.

5 — Intelligent life, spacefaring but pre-FTL. Development prohibited. Peaceful contact allowed, but AIs must mediate all technology transfer.

6 — Intelligent life, FTL-capable. Development prohibited. Peaceful contact allowed.