would it be possible to have a game event called space caravan where an alien ship or ships carrying good loot travel through systems with an announcement sent out where their location is. they would travel in PVP only which might draw players to attack the fleet (pirates) and each other over the loot. the caravan would be loaded up pretty good with loot to creat an incentive.
also maybe some of the long term players could take on the role of captaining the caravan ships? maybe something to do in NA evenings