The vast expanse of space stretches endlessly, punctuated by the gentle glow of distant stars. A massive research station orbits the fifth planet of the Kepler-186 system, its sleek metallic hull reflecting the amber light of its host star. INT. RESEARCH STATION - PHOTON LATTICE LABORATORY - DAY The laboratory hums with the low thrum of superconducting magnets. DR. VANCE SALVO, 40s, disheveled hair and intense eyes, stands before a three-dimensional web of light - the photon lattice. Millions of microscopic nano-structures trap and manipulate photons with miraculous precision. VANCE stares at holographic displays showing complex readouts, his eyes reflecting both exhaustion and exhilaration.