mesostations

Mesostations are a concept in speculative fiction, particularly associated with science fiction narratives. They are generally depicted as intermediate points or waystations located within a larger interstellar or interdimensional transportation network. Unlike major hubs or endpoints, mesostations serve a more transient purpose, offering services such as refueling, resupply, minor repairs, or a temporary resting place for travelers. Their scale is typically smaller than that of a full-fledged space station or planetary base, suggesting a more specialized and focused operational role. The term itself suggests a middle position, "meso" meaning middle, within a larger system. In some stories, mesostations might be autonomous installations, while in others, they could be crewed facilities. Their function often hinges on the specific mechanics of the fictional travel method, acting as necessary stops to maintain the integrity or continuity of a journey across vast distances or through complex dimensional pathways. They are rarely the destination but are crucial for enabling travel to other locations.