This game has one of the most interesting takes on the theme so far that I've seen in the jam!
When i first was introduced to the controls I expected the game to be a space shooter, but was pleasantly surprised by the methodical and slow, but ominous and relaxing gameplay loop.
Of course that changed when the monsters started to appear, at that point each expedition became a calculated risk, which was very interesting, and fit well with the theme of the game.
My main complaint with the game is that due to the scaling of the upgrades I never felt like I really was choosing between options, and filling out each upgrade of the same price before going to the next tier.
And while the darkness of space fit the theme, and made it feel riskier and more exciting the further I went into space, I found myself dying to something I hadn't seen whatsoever beforehand, which made me feel like my only option was to stay close to the main gate
This game's story was definitely it's strong point I feel, and the icons that would appear on either side of my ship was really cool, I would love to see more of this game, and any complaints I have are symptoms of being a game jam game
I hope you keep making cool stuff!