A graphic depicting the Enterprise-E approaching the Bassen Rift
The Enterprise and the Scimitar in the Bassen Rift
The Bassen Rift is an area of space between Romulus and the Romulan Neutral Zone, in the galaxy's Beta Quadrant composed of extremely dense areas of stellar gas. A dense nebula field with many greenish-hued cloud formations, passage through the rift disrupts subspace communications, making contact with outside vessels impossible. (STO video game: Star Trek Online)
History[]
In 2378, the rift was the site of a major conflict between the USS Enterprise-E and the Reman warbird Scimitar, which was under the command of Praetor Shinzon.
Having pursued the Enterprise from Romulus while under cloak, Shinzon chose to wait until the Enterprise reached the the rift to conduct an ambush, as it would be impossible for the Enterprise crew to contact Starfleet to request reinforcements. (TNG movie & novelization: Star Trek: Nemesis)
Thirty one years after the battle the area continues to be irradiated with traces of thalaron radiation left over from the Scimitar's destruction. (STO video game: Star Trek Online)