The Kessok are a unique species. Though basically humanoid in shape, the Kessok are silicon based organisms - a true rarity in the known galaxy. More perplexing is how they thrive in environments that would quickly leave most humanoid species dead - the Kessok's natural environment is one soaked in the excessive antiproton radiation put out by their home star. As such, the Kessok have unique requirements that need to be met before they consider a system suitable for settlement. To meet these requirements, they have devised an ingenious solution - the Kessok have the ability to effectively transform stars, adapting them to serve their needs. This ability to 'solarform' has never been seen before throughout the known galaxy, and is a testament to the Kessok's intelligence and advanced technical skill. The Federation's short history with the Kessok has so far been marred by misunderstandings and manipulation by third parties. First encountered by a rogue faction rising from the remains of the Cardassian Union after the Dominion War, a brief conflict with the Kessok erupted between the Federation and the Kessok, who had been led to believe by the Cardassians that the Federation was a hostile, imperial power. Craving their advanced technology and the ability to manipulate (and weaponise) stars, the Cardassians manipulated the Kessok until the Federation revealed the deceit, after which the Kessok took it upon themselves to put an end to Cardassian ambitions in their region. Now, with peace restored, only time will tell where relations between the Federation and the Kessok will go from here.