Asteroids are rocky and metallic objects that orbit the Sun but are too small to be considered planets. They are known as minor planets. Asteroids range in size from Ceres, which has a diameter of about 1000 km, down to the size of pebbles. Sixteen asteroids have a diameter of 240 km or greater. They have been found inside Earth's orbit to beyond Saturn's orbit. Most, however, are contained within a main belt that exists between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter.

Pirates in the Rocks - Jason Argon June 21, 2375

The luxury yacht, Perihelion, was found drifting in the forbidden zone near Ceres. No one was onboard.  The ship had sustained damage, and had been ransacked.  AB Security issued a statement that they believe the occupants are being held for ransom by space pirates. 

The Perihelion was registered to Lawrence Beckman, one of the members of the Asteroid Mining Corporation’s advisory board. 

The government’s only comment was, “We are working to resolve the issue.”  

Knowing that my readers want first hand information, and not the blabberings from good natured public officials, I managed to get myself assigned to the story, and shipped out from Mars early one cold June morning, a week ago, in the hopes of satisfying your insatiable curiosity. 

It nearly cost me my life, but no price is too small to pay for a good story…

For those of you who have taken the Asti-Express shuttle from mars to Ceres, you know that staying alive is more important than amenities. 

Those space jockey’s fire it up and hang on until it’s time to slam on the brakes.  I can take it, if it means getting a scoop. 

The Mayor of Ceres shook my hand as I entered his office (after getting the run around for several hours).

“Well, Solar System News – Jason Argon.  A pleasure.  I hope you didn’t come all the way out here because of this Beckman business.”  He smiled broadly. 

“Yes, I did, Mr. Mayor.”  I bowed slightly in deference to his exalted position.  “Our viewers have a lot of questions, not only about this kidnapping, but also the latest increase in prices for the materials mined in these asteroid fields.” 

“Well, we knew that Mr. Beckman was in the vicinity.  He had been inspecting some of the facilities.”  The mayor turned and stood by the window, looking out.  Which was about the time I realized he was lying to me. “Some one had mentioned to him the views of Jupiter from within one of the nearby forbidden zones was spectacular, and it may be that he and his wife and crew were rescued from the damaged ship.”  He smiled at me again, this time not so broad.  I smiled back. 

“So, Mayor, what are you doing to find out?  Have you sent out ships to try and locate these people?” 

“We are just coming from a high level meeting where we just made arrangements to send out some scout ships.” 

“It looks like I got here just in time. “  I said.  “ I will be happy to go along so that I can be there to report on your success."