There are a few AI controlled races, and each player has a number of ships they can divide between planets. Each planet being the source of resources of construction is also a sight on its own. They will be visually big and noticable, each different for as far as i can graphically do. Each star system may have their own perks to have unique looks, so that it may feel a little different to have a major fight in system A than B. Color of the sun makes some of the atmosphere.

And what travels; camera does, limited to what player has vision of, but ships should be quite a interesting sight as they enter and leave warp space to their destinations. They are the real travellers. Camera might lock to one of the player's ships, maybe at all times. It might be the only way to ensure that the camera isn't focusing places it shouldn't.

But yeah, definition of "location" is a little vague in this case. In game like this it's not an issue at all to have 100 different locations. Maybe what decides is unique locations. Maybe blackholes, wormholes or other natural wonders that might be the key to change the game in player's favor. Thinking too big again...