The largest of nine moons orbiting the silvery gas giant Endor, the forest moon of Endor is the size of a small planet, and is also known as the sanctuary moon, or often simply just Endor. It is a temperate moon of forests, savannas and mountains, with a relatively light gravity. Its climate is suitable for its many native life-forms, including the somewhat primitive, furry Ewoks, who make their communal dwellings high in the trees.

The Empire selects Endor as the construction site for its second Death Star, and establishes an Imperial base on the moon's surface to generate a protective shield for the orbiting battle station. A Rebel strike force, including Han Solo and Princess Leia, lands on Endor in an attempt to destroy the shield generator, and gets some unexpected help.