[Psionics] [Space] Psi Trek - Worldbuilding

[Prince Charon]

Sorry this took so long. I got writer's block on new Academy questions, but yesterday came up with ideas for at least three on a new subject:

FTL Communications question I

As far as I can tell, we haven't touched much on communications at interstellar distances. Each of the options below are likely to have a range of effects on the setting, some more than others.

1. Couriers only, no FTL signals. This may be the case for less advanced but still warp-capable civilizations, even if other forms are chosen. Alternatively, FTL communications might have been developed by some or most civilizations before warp drive. That's probably a subject for a different vote.

2. Telepathy. FTL communication works by massively extending the ranges of existing telepaths. Electronic communication at interstellar ranges is not possible unless both telepaths also have useful cyberpsi abilities. Also, communication between telepaths who know each other well is far easier than long-range communication with unknown recipients.

3. Telepathy, but using long-range psychotronic generators, so an active telepath is not needed, and computers can communicate with each other directly.

4. ESP. Communication systems scan for specific beacons, which display information, often visually, for the sensors. Psi Sense/Signature Sniffer psychotronic generators can allow the identification of the scanning system, though transmission outside of prearranged times requires planning (e.g. scanning the area around a known receiver off and on in a pattern that means 'I have a long message, scan me,' or 'please send help'). Without a beacon, or with the beacon turned off, detailed scanning at interstellar ranges may be difficult or impossible. However, an active beacon is far more easily located by hostile sensors than a location or vehicle with an inactive beacon. An interstellar internet may be possible, but the option below is probably better for it.

5. Ergokinetic transceivers allow direct communication between computers. This may have the same 'beacon' problem as ESP, or may allow broadcasting, but with sufficient speed and range, allows for the possibility of an internet that spans Known Space.

6. Teleportation (indirectly). Space warps are detectable at interstellar ranges, and thus warp-capable civilizations often develop the means of extending their detection radius, and of sending more data in shorter timeframes. This is normally broadcast, and indeed, tight-beam transmissions may be difficult or impossible.

7. Most or all of the above have been used, and may still be in use. If most, please note which should be excluded.

8. Something else (please specify). This may be 'all of the above plus this other thing or things.'


Please include the number of your preferred option when you vote.