I do play a lot of Stellares and other games like that and things are never smaller than a galaxy nowadays.
I love to fly around a galaxy and explore the universe.
So way not to have multiple sectors to play in that you can add to a galaxy map to explore.
Each sector can have their own unique theme to them just as the solar system has.
You can have factions in their home sectors where they have a stronger presence.
Just think of how many possibilities and depth that a galaxy map on top of sectors can be.
Idea of game mechanics:
Entering sectors can be just like entering the solar system. Meaning the Galaxy map work a lot like the Sector map and it looks like a Galaxy.
If you're feeling fancy you can add a special fuel and special engine to travel long distances between sectors.
The Idea a lot bigger engine is needed to travel those long distances.
the special engine can be a mod to a ship that cost 10 or 15. or added like a weapon on the ship.
I have a lot more ideas about this. but this is something i really am interested in seeing in the game after playing Starsector.