astrophages
AS-truh-fay-juhz
Definition
A fictional, energy-consuming microorganism or biological entity that serves as a central scientific mystery and fuel source in the novel 'Project Hail Mary'.
Etymology
The word is a creative coinage, combining the Greek root 'astron' (star) with the suffix '-phage' (from the Greek 'phagein', meaning to eat or devour), literally translating to 'star-eater'.
In the news
In the article, astrophages are mentioned as a key scientific challenge that Ryland Grace must address, though the author notes their application to faster-than-light travel might exceed the scientific limits typical of the hard science fiction tradition.
‘Project Hail Mary’ as Hard Science Fiction: How the Recent Hit (and the Book It’s Based On) Follows a Venerable Science Fiction Tradition
Read the full article ↗High On Films