Controling the system?

[Controling the system?]

So then if you have a ship in an empty system then you technically control the system and qualify for the objective (since there are no planets to control)?

Or does it mean you must control systems with planets to qualify?  Or is empty space not technically a 'system'?

[Is it within the rules to trade Strategy Cards?]

Came across a situation in a game we played last weekend and am looking for an official/ informed opinion-

One of our players got the idea into his head that one could trade Strategy Cards and argued (fairly convincingly) that since deals and intrigue are all part of the game, why couldn't one use this as part one's strategy (if one can find another to make the deal).  I wasn't crazy about the idea since the player was really looking for a way out of having changed his mind about which card he wanted and had already drawn but the group took a vote and we went with it.  Turns out it was only acted upon the one time and did bring the game to a halt while the wheeling & dealing went on.  Already told them I was establishing a house rule against this activity in future games but told the group I would check with the pros to see if it is allowed. 

Is it?  Thanks-

[Lucky Charm]

Had a few interpretations on use of Lucky Charm today so I am looking for some clarification.

The rule states:  LUCKY CHARM - The active player may ignore the first three Event Markers he encounters on the Time Track this turn.

One opinion was that you could choose to use it anytime to ignore the next three events (even after seeing what the Event Card was).

The other opinion was that you have to play it blind (before any Event Cards are drawn) to ignore the first three events.

I am assuming the second opinion was the way it was intended.  Any opinions have a better understanding and can help us understand the correct usage?

Thanks.