The Ansible was developed as a mathematical proof of concept by (Dr) Shevek in 'The Dispossessed' by Ursula Le Guin.
It is an instantaneous communications device which allows the disparate worlds of the Ekumen to talk to each other in real time despite their separation and lack of (survivable) FTL starship travel.
Unlike many authors Ms Le Guin has allowed the name to be used by many other authors in their own settings.
See also
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