Cousin's Index

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The Cousin's Index, or "the Index", is the generally accepted form of Planet Classification, based on three variables RelativeComposition, RelativeSize, and RelativePosition. Each variable is represented by a capital letter, with any sub-attributes appearing as a lower-case letter. The Index is only useful if it is already established or assumed that specific details as to the planet's composition and size won't be needed.

Though widely used, the Index is not held in high regard. Its overt simplicity and loose categorization can lead to incorrect classification.

The term "Cousin's Index" derives from an off-handed comment by an unnamed data compiler that "All this anaemic index is good for is to find what planets are kissing cousins to ours, with all the inbred, lacklustre qualities that implies." Over a few short years, this opinion spread through the System, but without a better indexing system that could be easily handled by non-scientists, the derogatory nickname has since matured into an almost neutral description.