Black cluster

The Black Cluster is an astronomical phenomenon, located in sector 97 that was formed about 9 billion years ago, when hundreds of protostars collapsed in close proximity. The result of this collective collapse was an area of space that absorbs energy and dangerously affects spacecraft systems. In 2368, the SS Vico was destroyed exploring the Black Cluster, and the USS Enterprise-D was almost destroyed whilst investigating the Vico's disappearance. The Breen had several outposts in the region. (TNG: "Hero Worship").

The Federation space station Deep Space 3 is located near this cluster. (TNG: "Interface")