The Wellsprings of Space by Albert Teichner Episode #540
Albert Teichner | May 5, 2026-
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The Wellsprings of Space by Albert Teichner Episode #540
Albert Teichner
THE WELLSPRINGS OF SPACE
Episode #540 · Written by Albert Teichner · Narrated by Scott Miller
For generations humanity believed the stars were permanently out of reach. Every attempt to cross the vast distances between solar systems ended the same way. Starships returned weakened, their structures slowly losing electrons to the thin magnetic field of the galaxy.
Then three scientists propose a radical solution. Throughout space they have located rare regions where new matter is constantly forming—cosmic wellsprings where hydrogen and free electrons stream into the universe. A ship that reaches one of these nodes can replenish its structure and continue outward, moving from wellspring to wellspring across the galaxy.
The discovery electrifies human civilization. At last the barrier that confined humanity to the solar system appears to be gone. The expedition vessel New Cosmos launches to prove the theory, carrying the very researchers who mapped the cosmic nodes. Their calculations promise a safe journey, a restored ship, and a triumphant return.
What they encounter at the first wellspring is exactly what the equations predicted—and something the equations never imagined.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Albert Teichner published science fiction during the 1950s in magazines such as Fantastic Universe. His work typically focused on scientific ideas pushed to unsettling conclusions, with discoveries that solve one problem while creating a deeper one.
“The Wellsprings of Space,” published in 1956, is his most widely remembered story. Its final twist delivers one of the most memorable cosmic price tags in classic science fiction.
LISTEN TO THE STORY
Listen to The Wellsprings of Space by Albert Teichner — a vintage science fiction story about cosmic matter wells that promise star travel—but hide a terrifying cost.
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