SPACE TRAVEL

MONO SYSTEM
Most spaceships operate under a system known as the "Machine Operation Navigation of Outer Space" or MONO, designed with single-pilot pod cockpits that can be ejected and navigated independent of the ships.
 

HYPERSPACE GATES
In the year 2021, hyperspace gates were constructed across the solar system. Designed by the famous Chessmaster Hex and funded by Gate Corp., the gates allow quick transportation through the solar system and colonization of other planets became a possibility... But due to a defect in the design, Hex attempted to stop the construction of the gates. He  was fired by Gate Corp. and the gates were built without his approval. The infamous "Gate Incident" occurred shortly after.

GATE INCIDENT
A hyperspace gate between the Earth and its moon exploded, causing moon debris which formed countless meteors around Earth's atmosphere. These meteors constantly strike the planet everyday rendering the planet virtually uninhabitable.
The gate incident changed the lives of many including Faye Valentine and Wen.

OTHER TECHNOLOGY

As the world entered the 21st century, there were numerous advancements in technology.

The universal currency known as Woolongs was established. Paper money is less common. Most people carry convenient money cards.

Medical technology such as artificial organs and cryogenic freezing have been perfected. Images from the brain can be displayed on monitors with devices like the "Alfa Catch."

Entertainment technology has greatly advanced. Virtual reality video gaming has become the norm and videocassettes are a thing of the distant past.

The internet, once known as the World Wide Web (WWW), has evolved into the massive Solar System Web (SSW).