Is it possible to make the planets actually orbit their Suns?
Not sure if this can be done but;
1, This could make better use of the S.A.D.A.R technology (it only tells you whats two jumps away, bit dull ), being that it could possibly tell you whats in a particular system i.e. revealing planets - the further away the object/planet is the longer it takes to detect. Say that some thing is moving in the solar system, it can say where the object is going.
1.5, This can add new and remove old structures; telescopes, space stations (where you chose if they do civilian or military research).
2, This could make the game less predictable, since the phase lanes show you where ships are going to jump in, knowing that all you have to do place your M.A.C cannons in certain positions and that's it.
3, This can mean that a black hole could be the center of a solar system. They can also be dangerous i.e. destroying some ships that enter it. You can make the forerunner portal orbit a planet like an installation or just orbit the sun they shouldn't be the same size as planets. This can be used to add another level to the black hole travel technology.
The phase lanes are way too messy and boring.
Random Suggestions; Be able to see whats happening on the ground or even control whats happening, Moving Artifacts to a planet you want it on. Bring back the pirates but call them Innies.
That's it from me . For now *cough**cough* Remove Phase lanes!!!!!!!!!!! *cough**cough*