SIL, Space Industries Laboratory, blending science and philosophic idealism, is a self-contained orbital craft providing physical survivability and intellectual stimulation—an example to eco-ravaged Earth of humanity's future.

SIL is conceived in 2012 as the next generation of space workstation after the International Space Station becomes obsolete. No longer able to rely on national treasuries to fund such a gargantuan operation, NASA turns to corporations, leasing large areas of the 3-mile diameter space laboratory for long periods of time in exchange for the billions it takes to create it. Construction is completed in 2034.