Boom tube

Boom Tube is an extra dimensional portal used by residents of New Genesis and Apokolips in DC Comics. The concept was created by Jack Kirby for his Fourth World series of comics. The 'science' of Boom Tubes has never been explained (as is normal for the New Gods, though Orion, in the first issue of New Gods, says that a Tube "stems from the waves of the mind") but they allow people to travel interstellar distances quickly by creating an apparent tube between the points that people can travel through. When in use a 'tube' coated in arcane technology appears for the user to pass through accompanied by a loud 'boom' noise (hence the name). The Tubes need to be generated or opened by another device, commonly a Mother Box.

As with much New Genesis technology, Boom Tubes can sometimes be seen by fans as an example of a Deus Ex Machina, conveniently allowing characters a way out of impossible situations. This reflects later authors broadening the original concept. The initial Kirby comics depict Boom Tubes as a sort of quasi-technological equivalent of Bifrost, the Rainbow Bridge linking Asgard and Earth; indeed, Boom Tubes are described as a "bridge to Earth." Subsequent writers have allowed the Tubes to be used for point-to-point transport between locations on New Genesis, Apokolips, Earth and other planets, thereby making them ubiquitous when New Gods travel almost anywhere and replacing other mostly undefined concepts like the Electron Road, the Matter Threshold and the Star Gate, all of which have been used by New Gods from either New Genesis or Apokolips to get around.

Later Additions to the Concept
Peter David introduced the idea that the New Gods were, in fact, giants and that the Boom Tube would shrink them or enlarge heroes (such as Superman) who travelled to their home worlds. For example, if Superman were to travel to Apokalips under his own power, he would be miniature in comparison to the New Gods. This has apparently become canon in the 52 mini-series, demonstrated by the great size of the New God Devilance the Pursuer.

In Grant Morrison's 'Mister Miracle' run, it was revealed that the technology is actually referred to as 'boom lanes' by the New Gods. However, the noise disorients the character, so he later calls it "'Boom tube', or something".

In Brad Meltzer's Justice League of America #1 a villain named Dr. Impossible uses a "Father Box" to summon "Hush Tubes".