Mass Relay

Alien artifacts that allow faster-than-light travel across the galaxy.

Mass Relays are colossal alien artifacts. In 2148, humanity discovered an alien outpost on Mars and learned that Charon is actually one of these structures. These devices enable faster-than-light travel across the galaxy by connecting to other relays located throughout space. Their discovery drastically increased the enhancement rate of humanity's technology and facilitated contact with numerous other space-faring alien species. Without these artifacts left behind by advanced precursor civilizations, the colonization of the galaxy and the formation of interstellar society would have been impossible given the limitations of conventional propulsion.

Quick Facts

Primary function: Enables faster-than-light travel to other mass relays located across the galaxy

Lore & Background

The Relays were believed to be made by a race known as the Protheans, who were thought to be the progenitor race for all species but had long since disappeared. These artifacts are located across the galaxy; in 2148 humanity learned from an alien outpost on Mars that Charon is one of them. They serve as the infrastructure allowing humanity and other civilizations to travel between star systems instantly rather than taking years to traverse the void. The existence of these Relays allowed for the integration of humanity into the galactic community led by the Council, despite initial resentment from established species.

Reader's Guide

Once activated, the vessel travels across vast distances that would otherwise take years using conventional drives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Mass Relays?

Mass Relays are colossal artificial ring structures created by the Reapers that enable instantaneous travel across the galaxy. They serve as the essential infrastructure allowing interstellar civilization to exist without being isolated in single star systems.

How do ships use a Mass Relay?

This technology bypasses conventional light-speed limits, reducing travel time from years to mere moments.

Who built the Mass Relays originally?

The Reapers constructed these ancient superstructures during previous cycles to guide organic expansion toward their eventual harvest. Their true purpose remained hidden until the events of the Mass Effect trilogy revealed their sinister origin.