Chesed

Abstract
Chesed (hes ed´) is the third planet of the Keser system and is very similar to Binah the system’s second planet. Slightly larger than Binah it has sufficient mass to generate and retain an atmosphere, but no evidence of an atmosphere was found during the Mitzvah’s planetary flyby in 2582 CE. It is believed that, like Binah, Chesed developed an atmosphere early in the formation of the Keser system, but lost it to Keser’s solar wind and the periodic shock waves produced by Ain’s novae. The first planetary survey indicated the presence of a metallic core in Chesed. Its magnetic field is identical in strength and polarity to Earth. The survey found that if Chesed had formed within Keser’s habitable zone it would have developed liquid water. All of the other key ingredients for the development of carbon-based life forms are present on Chesed.

Astronomical Characteristics
Third planet from Keser; Chesed orbits Keser at a mean distance of c. 205.9 million km in a nearly circular orbit, and its period of revolution is about 504 standard days.

Physical Characteristics
Chesed is often referred to as the sister planet of Binah, because it is only slightly larger in both size and mass. It rotates on its axis once every 42 hours. The planet’s surface, like that of Binah, is cratered and active. Microwave cartography performed by the Mitzvah indicates the existence of numerous mountain ranges, volcanoes and subduction zones. The presence of such features indicates the potential for tectonic action. This potential geologic activity has caused a high degree of interest in the mineral rights of Chesed among the members of the Colonial Convention. A second planetary survey team was transported to Chesed aboard the Lux Aeterna in 2578 CE. Detailed exploration of the planet and asset valuation for colonial settlement was to be completed in 2583 CE. However, the increased stellar prominence activity and the absence of an atmosphere on Chesed caused the team to abandon its survey in 2581 CE. The development of the substantial market for the heartwood of Sequoia neophytes resulted in the abandonment of Chesed’s potential colonization when Weyerhaeuser-Pacific filed a protected system status charter for Otz Chiim in 2590 CE.

Satellite System
Chesed has one natural satellite. Gedulah, is about 930 km in diameter and orbits the planet with a period less than Chesed's period of rotation (28 hr 17 min), causing it to rise in the west and set in the east.