Meson Communicator
A Meson Communicator is probably the most cutting edge communications technology available within Charted Space. It uses mesons, a subatomic particle, to propel electromagnetic signals at potentially FTL speeds and does not require a direct line of sight.
Please see the following AAB articles for more information:
Description (Specifications)
For all that the Meson Communicator is an impressive technology, it still suffers from relatistic lag over longer distances. In practical terns, it is rarely used for distances greater than found within a star system. Even then, messages beamed from a mainworld to the far system might have potential lags of hours or even weeks.
History & Background (Dossier)
Even millenia ago, writers of speculative fiction from a number of different races, societies,and civilizations had predicted FTL communications technology. On ancient Terra, the device became known as the Ansible. It is closely associated with a writer of venerable prose named Ursula K. Le Guin, whose views were later coopted by the Solomani Movement.
Unfortunately despite this ancient and enduring interest, no one has yet broken the code on effective and practical FTL communications. The practical Meson Communicator is still serving as the premier communications device of Charted Space after several millennia. This technological device uses well understood subatomic theories although the FTL nature of the meson is still being explored.
References & Contributors (Sources)
- Frank Chadwick. Striker (Game Designers Workshop, 1981), 5.
- Author & Contributor: Lord (Marquis) and Master of Sophontology Maksim-Smelchak of the Ministry of Science