I was in Dark Empire in the beginning on Orion server iirc. I was devastated when sunset was announced and left the game shortly after - later regretting not staying till shutdown. Rejoined friends in EVE Online in 2004 and played there off and on for 7 or 8 years but my accounts are not currently active.
Everyone involved with the emulator has done a fantastic job with its revitalization - so far it's everything I remember. I was very happy to find out about the project and get back into the game.
Kudos on your dedication!