I was trying to think of a unique product that would have created faster space and air travel in this world. Could a plant reasonably be burned and sustain fire long enough or does it have to be hard like a rock? I could compromise and have a fungus that is hard. In fact, I just read about a fungus that is harder than wood and has to be chiseled out to form homes.

Okay, I can do some research on Jet engines...(pauses to laugh at the list of things I already have to do, and how this somehow fits as a priority. I think my wife would like the shower handle fixed first, and then I can research Jet engines. )

Thanks for your input!

That sounds like a plausible idea to me.

I started a new book that used Space Pull to jump lightyears, but I suppose I could still use this plant/fungus as the fuel behind it.

Yes, this book idea started before the SF forum was put up.

I find this interesting, using plants for fuel, instead of gas or oil or some other strange compound. It's a nice simple alternative to the complicated stuff people seem to use nowadays. Mind if I stow that bit of information away for later reference?

Stow away, and if you come across any research material that supports this idea please share.

I took the name from a Dune Prequel, that has a world called IX. I'm not married to the name, and don't even know if I'll ever write this book, so no worries.

*Whew* Good. Usually I pick a name right off and so it's stuck, even if I start to dislike it.