Much like we observe and collect data about our environment, wildlife, and endangered species, the Data Collectors were sent here to collect and report back information about us. At one time, humans lived on many planets, in many solar systems; but now we are endangered, and currently live on a single planet ... Earth. The Data Collectors are trying to determine what is causing our near extinction to save humans as a species. Meanwhile, special interest groups would rather see the human race die off sooner, rather than later. After all, if they can preserve what natural resources we have left, Earth is prime intergalactic real estate.