portausten

Portaustens are a fictional concept often found in speculative fiction or tabletop role-playing games. The term itself is not a recognized scientific or technical term. When used, "portausten" typically refers to a device, mechanism, or phenomenon that allows for the instantaneous or near-instantaneous transport of objects or individuals across distances. This transportation is often achieved through means that defy conventional physics, such as folding space, creating wormholes, or manipulating dimensional barriers.

The specific nature of a portausten varies greatly depending on the context in which it appears. Some might be large, fixed installations, while others could be portable devices. The energy requirements, limitations, and potential side effects of using a portausten are also common plot elements. For example, some stories might explore the ethical implications of such technology or the dangers of uncontrolled teleportation. The term's origin is likely a portmanteau of "portal" and "transport" or a similar word suggesting movement.