So while we're waiting, you guys should know I found something.
Neptune's Pride: http://np.ironhelmet.com/
A write-up here: http://www.gamesetwatch.com/2010/02/column_battle_klaxon_the_i.php
Read that and tell me it doesn't send like a nifty evolution of Diplomacy. IN SPAAAAAAACE! There's a free trial, it's browser-based, and its pacing might work for those of us who exist in the real world. Perhaps not for you studyholics, but you can be the judges of that. Needless to say, I'll be recruiting after this game. Maybe even before that. Who's with me?