Deep Core

Galactic Sector

The Deep Core is the astronomically chaotic, star-packed region orbiting the massive black hole at the center of the galaxy. Given the high density of star systems and the extreme fluctuations in the gravitational field, hyperspace travel through the Deep Core is extremely difficult if not impossible, and always highly dangerous. Very few navigational routes exist, and most of them are closely guarded Imperial secrets.

Into the Core

Given the difficulty in penetrating the Deep Core, galactic expansion naturally radiated outwards, along easier paths towards the rim and open space. While a few deep core systems are inhabited, most are not, or are too difficult to reach and survey.
Despite the difficult location, a few Deep Core worlds had a great impact on galactic history. It is believed the origins of the Jedi and the Force came from one of the isolated Deep Core worlds. One of the galaxy's most influential systems in ancient times was Empress Teta, a major supplier of carbonite and one of the original sources of human expansion into the galaxy.
However, for much of galactic history, the Deep Core was largely ignored by the rest of the galaxy. However, Chancellor Palpatine seized on the opportunity given by the Clone Wars to secretly scour the region for new hyperspace routes and usable worlds. He turned some of the data over to Separatist forces to launch a surprise attack on Coruscant near the end of the conflict. The rest of the information he kept secret. It is rumoured he silenced anyone involved in the scouting missions.
Some of the Empire's most highly guarded secrets are the routes into the Deep Core. The Emperor established the Deep Core Security Zone, making any travel illegal without the proper permits and authorizations from the Imperial Security Bureau and the Bureau of Ships and Services (BoSS). Travel within the Deep Core is highly regulated and patrolled with extreme security. Only a handful of systems are ever open to receive hyperspace traffic, usually only a couple at a time. Known worlds are largely unpleasant and unlikely to draw the typical merchant or tourist traffic. They include prison planets, industrial worlds, and indentured or enslaved mining colonies. 
Some systems have been secretly colonized by Imperial decree; many are heavily protected "fortress worlds." Among these many presumed secrets is the planet Byss, deep in the heart of the Core. Byss is the Emperor's personal retreat at the end of the extremely dangerous Byss Run hyperroute. Unknown to the galaxy at large, he trains acolytes and others in the ways of the dark side, and conducts disturbing experiments. Also along the route is Prakith. home to the Emperor's feared. Force-wielding High Inquisitors.

Type

Galactic Sector

Location under

The Galaxy