Subspace rift

A subspace rift is a type of subspace anomaly that forms in a region of space, where the fabric of space itself is weakened, and subjected to high levels of warp energy.

• Until 2370, the existence of a subspace rift was entirely theoretical, and dismissed by the Federation Science Council due to the lack of evidence. Its existence was proven in 2370, albeit at the cost of a scientist's life.

When a subspace rift forms, tetryon radiation levels in the vicinity increase rapidly, and the high-energy distortion waves produced by such a rift have deleterious effects on a starship's shields, and prolonged exposure to the waves will result in a catastrophic hull failure. Warp drive is rendered useless, due to the dangerous effects of its use within a rift - using warp drive within a subspace rift can not only inflict heavy damage on a starship, but it can also expand the rift further. However, it is possible to travel at faster-than-light speeds within a subspace rift, if a starship's warp engines are saturated, engaged and disengaged before entering a rift. Taking such action will neither inflict heavy damage on a ship nor expand the rift further. However, such a tactic is still extremely risky.

The USS Enterprise, NCC-1701-D encountered the first recorded subspace rift formation in 2370, while on a rescue mission to recover the USS Fleming.

See also: Subspace tear