communications range and universal translator

[gwgardner]

Suddenly my communication range increased. The only new technological advance was universal translator level 3. The description for that does not include anything about range. Is there any other documentation available on the techs, to understand their full effect?

[keller]

The description of how certain techs effect gameplay can sometimes be pretty basic so there will be times when you just have to play the game to fully understand what a tech does.
If you feel a certain tech needs more info you can always put a suggestion in the suggestions forum and it will be looked into.

[Zaimat]

The communication range is based on "Interstellar Communication" technology from your nearest colonies. If you gained a new colony that might explain why the range extended...

As for Universal translator, it helps with diplomacy but has no effect for communications range.