It all started when an expedition into the Everfree Forest, sent to try to understand more about the creatures that lived there stumbled on an anomaly.
It was an ancient starship, overtaken by the forest surrounding it, and deep inside was a single stone that would change the fate of the Ponies forever.
On the stone was etched a galactic map that showed a particular route through space. At the end of this route was their planet and at the beginning was another planet that was represented by and a single word more ancient than Equestrian recorded history.
Earth
Not used to describe the dirt on the ground, or the ponies that did not possess wings or a horn. But to describe the world that all living things came from. A world that before, was nothing more then mythology.
Word spread, plans were made, and a colony ship was designed. Construction would take several years. The Princess of the night was chosen to lead the expedition and the elements of harmony along with their bearers would be chosen to join as well.
Everything demanded new technology, new industries, and new sacrifices. The greatest of these was made by Princess Luna herself, who had been permanently integrated into the colony ship effectively becoming its living core.
The promise of the guide stone had united and inspired the Equestrians. Every mind was focused on discovering their true origins. Every effort was made to make it possible to seek out among the stars.