Islands of Space · Chapters

Chapters explained

Chapter companions for Islands of Space by John W. Campbell.

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Chapter 1
Prologue
In the early 22nd century, Dr. Richard Arcot and Robert Morey discover the molecular motion drive, and with engineer John Fuller, build a ship to capture the Air Pirate Wade. Wade, a brilliant but neurotic chemist who discovered invisibility, is cured and joins Arcot to build an interplanetary vessel to Venus. The Venusians, a telepathic humanoid race, unite with Earth against the Black Star Nigra, whose inhabitants attack seeking a star's warmth. The Nigrans, inexperienced in war, are repelled, leaving Arcot, Wade, and Morey craving new adventure.
Chapter 2
I
Three scientists—Arcot, Wade, and Morey—are interrupted by John Fuller. They reveal their plan to build a spaceship that can exceed the speed of light by altering the curvature of space, powered by high-density currents using lux metal insulation. The group decides to move their work to Arcot's Vermont lab.
Chapter 3
Chapter II
The team designs and plans the construction of a massive spaceship, the Ancient Mariner, using advanced materials like lux and relux. Arcot teaches the others Venerian telepathy for future communication with alien races. They discuss the ship's shape, power systems, weapons (molecular and heat beams), and defensive measures, including invisibility technology.
Chapter 4
Chapter III: The Ancient Mariner
Arcot, Wade, Morey, and Fuller demonstrate their new molecular motion drive and a powerful energy storage device to the elder Dr. Arcot and the elder Mr. Morey. After a successful demonstration, they discuss financing for their interstellar expedition and debate names for their ship, ultimately settling on 'The Ancient Mariner'.
Chapter 5
The Ancient Mariner
The elder Morey and Dr. Arcot are given a tour of the newly constructed intergalactic spaceship, the Ancient Mariner. They inspect the power room, storage coils, laboratory, living quarters, and control room. Arcot explains the hyperspace drive and the ship's capabilities. After the tour, the older men bid farewell and depart, and the ship lifts off.

Prologue

I

Chapter II

Chapter III: The Ancient Mariner

The Ancient Mariner