FTL
FTL is an acronym which stands for Faster-Than-Light. The term is applied to the theory of relativity and relates to the ability of an object to move through space at a velocity in excess to that of the speed of light ( 299,792,458 metres per second). The hypothesis behind FTL travel is that unusually distorted regions of spacetime might permit matter to reach distant locations faster than what it would take light in the normal or undistorted spacetime. FTL travel has been demonstrated in various forms of science fiction, usually applied to theories and names that are germane to a specific franchise. Space vessels are often equipped with propulsion systems that allow them to achieve subluminal velocity. In Star Trek, it is referred to as warp speed. In Andromeda, it is called Slipstream. The ships featured in the 2003 relaunch of Battlestar Galactica use FTL drive systems.
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