The Republic of Messier 98 is a colossal, safe nation, renowned for its burgeoning turtle population. The quiet, industrious population of 3.151 billion Messier 98ians enjoy extensive civil rights and enjoy a level of social equality free from the usual accompanying government corruption.

The medium-sized, liberal, socially-minded government juggles the competing demands of Law & Order, Defense, and Welfare. The average income tax rate is 28.5%, but much higher for the wealthy.

The sizeable but underdeveloped Messier 98ian economy, worth 77.9 trillion francs a year, is quite specialized and led by the Trout Farming industry, with major contributions from Beef-Based Agriculture, Uranium Mining, and Automobile Manufacturing. Black market activity is notable. State-owned companies are common. Average income is 24,734 francs, and distributed extremely evenly, with little difference between the richest and poorest citizens.

Crime is well under control, thanks to a capable police force and progressive social policies in education and welfare. Messier 98's national animal is the turtle.

Messier 98 is ranked 68,422^nd in the world and 3^rd in Tube Town for Highest Drug Use, scoring 239.98 on the Pineapple Fondness Rating.