Expeditionary Groups
Also referred to Expeditionary Outfits, Expeditionary Organizations, Exploratory Companies or Nomadic Settlements. These are small communities that do not have a permanent location or base of operations.
Most of these groups use a three letter designation.
KMH (KMX in English)
A resource expeditionary outfit operated by dominantly private Russian organizations. The population is approximately 130 individuals and includes numerous families. The contingent rotates using Novyimir as a primary base of operations, thus only 20% of the crew live a full-time nomadic life.
KMH travels in a caravan with dozens of vehicles, mobile habitations and heavy construction equipment.
Their primary mission is resource-based, however, KMH is actively involved in joint projects with the Novyimir and Korolev, with significant overlapping ventures.
KMH is a branch of the first Russian missions to Mars in 2039 and instrumental in the founding of both Novyimir (2047) and more recently Korolev (2072).
RSX
Rover Scientific is a research group largely made up of research scientists from various Earth-based organizations. The general population fluctuates around 70 as members (and their families) have between a 2-6 year rotation before returning back to earth.
RSX does make periodic stops at colonies and other Martian outposts as mobile habitats and research vehicles requires constant re-supply. Additionally, the lifestyle is difficult on members, without regularly scheduled rest and rehabilitation.
VEX
Vallis Expeditionary Company is one of the larger nomadic settlements with a population of 270 colonists. Vallis is a private corporation, but closely tied with Marineris where they have a headquarters that employs 20 staff members.
Vallis is a natural resource outfit and deploys robotic mining operations for multiple businesses and colonies. Vallis has more than 40% of the robotic workforce on Mars, including 'colony building' excavators and equipment.
VEX has been in operation since 2051.
HDX
Huá diàn 华殿 is company founded in 2057 out of Tiangong. With a population of 320 people, it is the largest nomadic group, though the crew often deploys missions that temporarily separates the company.
HDX is involved in both scientific and resource development projects and exclusively works for interests in Huacheng, Tiangong and Amrita. HDX built and owns a significant share of Huygens Spaceway, located at coordinates 56, 13.
VMX
Venture Monarch Company is the outcome of the failed UK colonization project. After the abandonment of the British-lead colony, the colonists were given a new mission to secure British interests on Mars. Though many of the original group ended up in Europa or Wendland, VMX continues to represent the U.K. with a crew of 300.
VMX does research on behalf of the British government as well as engages in multiple joint venture projects with colonies to secure trade of resources to Earth.