In modern interstellar terms, a colony is a settlement (usually small) placed on a distant world by a spacefaring race or government. Colonies are generally — although not always — civilian outposts established for agricultural or commercial purposes.
In the Federation, most colonies that are established are extremely small, consisting of only a few hundred settlers. Over time, these colonies may expand and grow to support a larger population.
The Federation Council must grant permission before a settlement is established on any planet. Finding planets suitable for colonization and placement of settlers on suitable planets is one of the Federation's major functions.
- It is not known if colonies are considered to be extensions of their parent planet or full members of the Federation. The Federation's 150 member number given in Star Trek: First Contact would suggest that the former applies, since otherwise the number would almost certainly be exceeded. However, Star Trek: Star Charts lists a complete list of Federation members, including several established colonies. It is known that most of them are responsible for local government. Some have ceded from the Federation altogether.